ANGIE SHEEP
<Staff Writer>
This week’s issue of the Obiter Dicta is all about “being green,” and that is also the trend for this fashion article. By way of background: eco-fashion, also known as sustainable fashion, is about promoting environmental and social responsibility. It seeks to reduce the fashion industry’s carbon footprint by using materials and methods that are the least harmful to both the planet and our friends in it. Although there is no 100% eco-friendly piece or procedure, we can do our part by making environmentally-friendly choices whenever possible. In this article, I will outline some of the ways in which you can opt for eco-fashion and hopefully inspire you to make more green choices next time you’re at the mall.
Recycle
In the fashion industry, constant change is a promise you can certainly bank on. But the truth is that trends are almost always recycled (as you might have realized over the decades you’ve been alive). There are only so many ideas to go around. The denim jackets from the 90s came back as the hottest item last spring, and this year, the 60s cat-eye sunglasses have returned. Another piece that probably will never go out of style is a reliable camel trench coat in a classic cut. Therefore, one of the greatest ways you can incorporate a little green in your style (without actually wearing the colour) is to use what you already have. If the whole industry can do it, so can you! In previous issues, I have touched on ways of giving your usual wardrobe a fresh look and there are countless magazines that also do the same. Buying a Vogue or InStyle for inspiration is a lot cheaper than a new outfit.
Staple & Flexible Pieces
Instead of buying everything that the industry has dictated as “in” or “hot” this season, purchase classic items that you can wear year-round. Fashion is not only about sporting what’s new; anyone can mimic the mannequin to look fashionable. A true fashionista knows how to shop smartly, wear what he or she has flexibly, and be completely comfortable with what works while simultaneously pushing the style boundaries. I am by no means a minimalist, but I definitely believe there are essentials that every young adult should have in their closet: a plain white T-shirt or button-down, dark-wash jeans, a blazer, and a little black dress or slacks, to name a few.
Shop Responsibly
I know that the majority of eco-fashion is quite expensive, usually with simple dresses that start at $250.00. But there are companies out there offering cheaper alternatives. American Apparel, for example, heavily denounces sweatshops; all their products are manufactured locally. They also have great pieces for men, particularly durable and chic V-neck T’s (see picture). Panda Sunglasses uses eco-conscious bamboo frames, which look incredibly chic (see photo). A portion of the proceeds from each sale also goes toward helping someone regain their vision. If you’re looking for a directory of eco-conscious fashion, check out fashioningchange.com, a website that collects a vast stock of green clothing and accessories.
Try
It’s difficult to drastically change your fashion choices in an instant. That’s completely understandable as looking for eco-friendly brands require time and most of us simply do not have much of that to spare. I am completely guilty of this as well. I often pick out the first thing I like and I’m also a sucker for sales (not the best combination for being green). But next time when a banner or sales rep tells you about a social or environmental initiative the company has taken on, pay attention, and try to spread the word. Your entire wardrobe does not have to be strictly eco, but you can make environmentally friendly choices by recycling and investing in key pieces. When faced with the choice of a green shirt versus a non-green shirt of comparable price, an extra $5 seems a small sacrifice in exchange for great earth karma.
There you have it Ozzies: a little goes a long way when it comes to sustainable fashion. Help the planet; it’s where we keep our clothes.