We’re now coming to terms with the effect that fast fashion has on the environment and the fashion industry as a whole. It’s a well-known fact that fast fashion is one of the worst pollutants. On top of this, we have other intersectional issues like unfair labor and unethical production means.
To address these problems, consumers have adopted new ways of dressing and shopping — one of which is embracing a minimalist closet. At its essence, a minimalist closet is simply predicated on mindful shopping and owning less clothing.
Here are some tips to get you started.
Mend and repair
An ill-fitting wardrobe is an easy excuse to get your shop on. Most of the time, however, the garments we throw away are completely salvageable. All you need is a little imagination and some sewing know-how (which can easily be learned online) in order to transform your old shirts into your next favorite piece.
Shop secondhand
Our post on Out with the Old in with the Reused emphasizes how secondhand shopping has become all the rage nowadays. The rise of conscious shopping also means that people are giving their clothes a second life, thus donating loved pieces to vintage stores. In fact, some shoppers have built their entire wardrobe from secondhand stores, getting everything from party dresses to accessories.
Invest in essential pieces
Imagine taking less than 10 minutes to get dressed. This is the promise of a minimalist wardrobe, where each garment can be mixed with the other options in your closet to create timeless looks. Some key pieces include:
Comfy tees
A good tee never goes out of style, and its versatility suits all seasons. While sustainability champion Girlfriend Collective is well known for its leggings, its loose shirts are lightweight and incredibly soft. They’re the epitome of casual cool, made for throwing over a pair of jeans and running out the door.
Sturdy outerwear
Florida is known for its year-round warm weather, but a good jacket proves useful come rainy season.
Reliable shoes
The right pair of shoes is worth the investment. Whether you’re someone who wears ballet flats or sneakers, having a pair you can slip on without a moment’s thought will keep you going on your next adventure. Speaking of sneakers, Tread by Everlane makes its shoes out of recycled materials, proving that ethical can be chic. They’re also incredibly comfy.
A throw-it-all tote
As far as minimalist accessories go, you can’t go wrong with a tote bag. These bags are meant to carry your whole desk and then some, which is why many minimalist bloggers opt for totes they know they’ll use again and again. Baggu has both leather and canvas options, which means all you have to do is take your pick.
When the likes of H&M and Forever 21 first rose to prominence, shoppers everywhere felt spoiled for choice. It’s easy to get lured into the promise of a new collection every week, with dirt-cheap prices that make hoarding almost too easy. That said, it’s never too late to make the switch towards minimalism. The environment, your closet space, and your wallet will thank you for it.
FEATURED EVENT
