The most sustainable way to shop will always be to abstain from it. Here are a few tips on how to shop more sustainably, which will help you determine whether or not you will be happy with your buy in the long run!
I’ve implemented these tips into my everyday life and so far, they’ve helped me so much to make an informed choice and stay away from buying things, that will only disappear into the depths of my closet after one wear.
1. Start a Wishlist
You know this situation: You’re wearing a cute outfit but upon leaving the house, you realize none of your shoes really go with it and you think “I wish I had light brown loafers to go with this outfit”
Write it down! I have a Pinterest board to manage my wishlist. That way, I can go over it before entering a store, and scan for things my wardrobe is actually missing and avoid impulse buys.
It’s just like going grocery shopping hungry, you’ll buy tons of things you don’t need. Stick to your shopping list and avoid spending money on unnecessary stuff.
2. Wait
Say you went window shopping and found a skirt that you really liked, but it’s not on your wishlist.
Take a photo and take a while to think about it.
Ask yourself the following questions first
– Do I already own something similar?
– Do I really need this?
– Would I regret not buying it tomorrow? In a week/month/year?
– Will I get to wear/use this a lot?
– Will this help me wear another piece of my wardrobe more often?
3. Know your colors
Knowing which colors suit you are a huge help in finding clothes and accessories you’ll actually wear for a long time.
Find out which colors make you feel beautiful.
You have this one blue blouse you always get compliments on? Well, maybe blue is your color!
Bonus points if you know what seasonal skin type you are (winter, spring, summer, or autumn).
4. Know your body type
Just as knowing which colors suit you, knowing which cuts and shapes make you feel great, is priceless.
I used to work in fashion retail and got to try on a lot of different cuts and styles. After a while, I noticed a pattern: I feel most confident in garments with a cinched waist, dresses, and skirts that are at least knee-length, high waisted pants and I absolutely love buttoned dresses!
Look at the things you own and love: Is there anything they have in common?
If you are completely in the dark, take the Kibbe test to find out your body type, that will help you find out what may suit you.
Don’t let tests like these restrict you too much though- ultimately you’ll look best in what makes you happy!
5. Quality, Quality, Quality
Make sure to check if the garment is well made. Don’t be fooled by the price tag, even high end or otherwise expensive items can be of poor quality.
Read the tag for the material composition: Polyester and other synthetics, as well as lightweight rayons, tend to not age well.
Look the seams: Are they even? How long is the stitch length (the shorter, the more durable the seam)? Any loose threads?
Ideally, any garment should last you for many years to come and be able to endure some wear and tear.
Those were my personal tips on how to shop more sustainably and have an overall happier shopping experience! I hope you could learn a thing or two and it’ll help you refine your wardrobe.
What are some tips that help you make better choices while shopping?
