Slow plus size fashion is a movement that supports fair and eco-friendly ways of making clothes.
As consumers, we have the power to influence change by supporting ethical practices. The fashion industry is not only about style and trends; it’s also about the people behind the clothes. Here are practical steps you can take to promote fair labor and eco-friendly practices in the fashion world. This is a general overview, most of these topics I go over in other posts. Keep an eye out for new posts and updates!
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Research Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Slow plus size fashion is easy to understand but doing it can look different for everyone. Learn about ethical fashion and the problems plus-size people face in fashion. Choose brands that care about the environment and workers. Look for…
Ethical Working Conditions
Check whether brands offer safe workplaces, fair pay, and reasonable hours.
Quick tip: look for labels like Fair Trade or GOTS. These labels are hard to get. If a company has them, it shows they care about doing things right.
Supply Chain Transparency
Choose brands that are honest about how they make clothes and where they get their materials. This shows they care about doing things right. It also helps you choose better.
Invest in Quality Over Quantity
When able, opt for enduring fashion items that stand the test of time. You may want to look into this option when looking to purchase a staple wardrobe piece. This could be everyday jeans or a simple white buttoned shirt. Prioritize durability over sheer volume in your wardrobe. Make a conscious choice to buy from brands that share your values.
Do not get stuck on this! This is where I differ from other resources you may come across. When doing my own research, so many resources focused on slow fashion brands. In a perfect world, we all would be able to afford these brands, especially us plus size gals. But, alas, many of us have a tight budget. If you can afford it, DO IT, it’s worth the investment. For the rest of us, don’t worry, there are other affordable (even free) options!
Look for brands that offer many sizes and support all body types. Follow and talk to brands and people online who do things the right way. Support them, give feedback, and join conversations to help them succeed.
Check out my lists of ethical and inclusive brands here.
Consider a Capsule Wardrobe
Become your own stylist by getting the most out of your clothes. Try making a capsule wardrobe to look great and save time.
Thrift
Try thrift stores and vintage markets for unique and affordable clothes. Buying used clothes is good for the environment and your wallet. It reduces the need for new clothes and helps the planet. Plus, vintage clothes add a special touch to your style.
Tip: Don’t forget, online shops and Facebook marketplaces are great sources for secondhand fashion.
Extend
Extending the life of your clothing is not only sustainable but also a smart investment. Here are some quick and practical tips to help you cherish your wardrobe for years to come:
- Use a delicate bag when washing to protect your undergarments and make them last longer.
- Keep a stain removal pen handy in your bag. Address stains quickly to prevent them from ruining your favorite clothes.
- Challenge yourself to wear garments at least three times before washing them. Frequent washing can lead to color fading, elastic stretch, and fabric damage.
- Minimize how often you dry clean. Dry cleaning involves harsh chemicals that harm both fabrics and the environment. Instead, refresh your clothes by hanging them in the bathroom while you shower.
- Don’t put too many clothes in the washing machine at once. The right amount helps prevent damage and fading.
- Whenever possible, air dry your clothes. Be careful leaving clothes in direct sunlight for too long. The sun can act as a natural bleach and fade colored clothing.
- Sweaters and stretchy items should be folded rather than hung to maintain their shape.
Mend and take care of your clothes to prolong their lifespan. According to WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Program), extending a garment’s life by just nine months results in significant reductions in carbon emissions, waste, and water footprints—each decreasing by 20-30%.
Remember, even small changes in how you care for your clothes can make them last much longer!
Repair or Repurpose Your Current Wardrobe
The best clothes for the planet are usually the ones you already own. Taking good care of them, fixing them when they’re damaged, and finding new ways to wear them help the environment. These actions fight against the bad effects of fast fashion.
Fixing Fashion and other groups teach people how to fix, care for, and update their clothes online. This helps us make less trash and buy less stuff. Follow me online for more tips.
Patagonia, Nudie Jeans, and Levi’s are embracing circular fashion by offering repair services for clothes. This helps reduce waste and is good for the environment. Fixing clothes instead of throwing them away is a better way to use resources.
Get creative! Turn old T-shirts into cleaning rags, transform denim into stylish patches, or craft reusable bags from worn-out fabrics.
Remember, every repair or change you make to your clothes is a step towards a more sustainable approach to fashion. It is also a more thoughtful way to approach fashion. By fixing and repurposing our clothes, we can love what we already have and help the environment.
Resell or Trade Discarded Items
Swap clothes with friends or online to refresh your style and help the environment. Sites like Depop, Poshmark, and ThredUp are great places for resale and purchasing. If you have another favorite clothing resell site, share it in the comments!
Donate or Recycle: Circular Fashion
Donating and recycling clothes are great ways to keep them out of landfills and help the planet.
When you donate clothes, you help someone else. Charities, thrift stores, and shelters use your donations to help people who need clothes. This gives them warmth, confidence, and a feeling of belonging. By giving to local groups, you make your community stronger.
Recycling centers turn old clothes into new materials. Even worn-out or damaged clothes can be used again. This saves resources and helps the environment. If there’s no recycling center near you, Goodwill or other thrift stores can usually help.
Remember, every small effort counts. Whether you donate, recycle, or upcycle, you’re making a difference in the fight against fast fashion and landfill waste. 🌿👚✨
Other Ways to Practice Plus Size Slow Fashion
Support Local Craftsmanship
Support local artists and small businesses. Their special items make our style more interesting and help our communities.
Fashion Activism
Join groups that fight for fair treatment of fashion workers. Sign petitions, join protests, or share information online. Your voice matters! This makes the demand for change stronger.
You can also share this blog to inspire others to consider making adjustments to a more sustainable and ethical life.
Advocate for Industry Reform
Use your influence to push for progress in the fashion world. Reach out to brands, influencers, and media, advocating for size inclusivity and ethical standards. Support movements that strive for these goals.
As consumers, our choices have power. By embracing these slow plus size fashion practices, we can drive the fashion industry towards greater ethicality. Let’s opt for fashion that not only looks great but also aligns with our values. It should be crafted with consideration for both people and the planet. 🌿👚✨ Together, we’re shaping a more mindful and caring fashion world! 🌎❤️
Community
Ready to take your style journey to the next level? Join our communities and unlock a world of fashion and sustainability inspiration.
Sustainable Style for Every Body Facebook Group – Connect with like-minded people who embrace sustainable and ethical plus-size fashion. Share tips, discover eco-conscious brands and celebrate body positivity.
Capsule Wardrobe Community Facebook Group – Master the capsule wardrobe to simplify your closet and elevate your style. Get advice, exchange ideas, and create a wardrobe you love!
Stay Updated with Plus Size Sustainable Fashion
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