Fashion
Build yourself a more ethical wardrobe with our insider guide
1DO YOUR RESEARCH
Knowing where to shop is key. Check in on your favourite stores and see what sustainable practices they are adopting, and what materials are being used. ‘Focus on natural fibres like 100% organic cotton, especially GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified where possible – because a GOTS label means you can be sure that it has achieved strict criteria for social and ecological compliance. So better for the environment, the workers and you!’ says Kate Tailyour, head of designs at Nomads Clothing, an ethical and sustainable fashion brand.
2QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
While you may gulp at the initial splurge, premium clothes are likely to last longer, so you will essentially be buying less over time. ‘Consider how many times you wear the items you already have and build a capsule wardrobe around the things you could never part with,’ explains Kate. Invest in a few classic pieces such as a trench coat, a cashmere jumper and jeans that you know you’ll never tire of. Adopt the ‘30 rule’ by asking yourself will you wear this at least 30 times before purchasing a replacement.
3SHOP SECOND-HAND
Newsflash! Second-hand shopping is officially cool, and with online platforms such as eBay and Vinted, it’s easy to navigate from the comfort of your own home. When searching, it helps to have specific items in mind. Make use of the filters and search by brand, size and item. High-end brands are more affordable second-hand, so consider shopping designer labels on trusted sites such as Farfetch.
4MAKE DO AND MEND
Some well-wor
