5 Easy Sustainable Fashion Summer Shopping Tips
Summer is finally here, bringing with it warm days, bright sunshine, and a perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe. But how can you stay stylish and sustainable in your fashion choices without breaking the bank? Today, we're diving into five easy tips that will help you look fabulous while also being mindful of the environment and your wallet. Let’s get started!
1. Buy What You Need
This seems fairly obvious, but super hard to do, which is to buy what you need. If you live in a place like the Midwest, summer doesn't last long. So, it's smart to limit your summer wardrobe purchases. Focus on key pieces that you can mix and match with what you already have in your closet or stored away for the warmer weather. Here are some key tips on how to start buying what you need:
Understanding Your Needs: Take this first step to consider your lifestyle, environment, and the activities you engage in. If you live in a place like the Midwest, it doesn't make sense to invest heavily in a summer wardrobe when you won't get much use out of it.
Quality Over Quantity: Instead of buying many inexpensive items, invest in a few high-quality pieces that will last longer and can be styled in various ways. Look for pieces that you will find fashionable and will be worn year after year. This approach will not only save you money in the long run, but also reduce waste.
Versatile Wardrobe: Focus on building a versatile wardrobe. Select key pieces that can be easily mixed and matched with items you already own. For example, a good pair of denim shorts, a couple of versatile tops, and a lightweight jacket can be styled in numerous ways to create different looks. This strategy allows you to maximize your outfit options without overcrowding your closet.
2. Pull Out Your Stored Slimmer, Sportier Shoes
Fashion trends are ever-changing, and this summer, the spotlight is on slimmer, sportier sneakers rather than the chunky ones. One of the best things about slimmer sneakers is their versatility and ability to be paired with different outfits. Here are a few ways to style slim, sporty sneakers for summer 2024:
Summer Dresses: Pair your bold sneakers with a light, airy summer dress for a perfect blend of comfort and style. The contrast between the sporty shoes and the feminine dress will create a balanced, chic look.
Casual Shorts: Whether you're wearing denim cutoffs or tailored shorts, slim sneakers add a sporty edge. Consider opting for a bold color to make your outfit pop.
Relaxed Fit Jeans: Relaxed fit or boyfriend jeans with a cuffed hem look great with sneakers. The combination will surely give off a laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe.
Skirts: From mini skirts to midi skirts, sporty and slim sneakers can be paired with various skirt lengths. This pairing will add a touch of casualness to more structured or formal skirts, making them perfect for everyday wear.
3. Borrow from Friends
Another great way to create a sustainable wardrobe without spending tons of money is to borrow from friends. Make excuses to hang out, share stuff, and create memories. For this summer, look for trending include wearing the color butter yellow, using sequins, denim pants, and white T-shirts. On the accessories front, raffia is huge right now, and polished kitten heels and Mary Jane flats are popping up everywhere.
Ballet flats are even making a comeback, but remember, sustainability is key. Sharing closets can be a great way to build stronger connections with current friends and help you share more pieces that otherwise would be sitting unused. You can also tap into your sibling’s closets by asking if you can borrow trendy checked shirts, sporty caps, and baseball jerseys. Don't be afraid to ask and to see what pieces people are open to share with you!
4. Borrow from Family
Consider visiting your parents and grandparents to treasure hunt for vintage finds. This not only adds unique pieces to your wardrobe but also helps you connect and hear the stories behind their clothing. Y2K vibes are particularly popular, so check out what your parents wore in the early 2000s. Here are some practical tips on how to borrow clothing:
Ask Permission: Talk to your family members if it's okay to borrow their clothes. They might even enjoy helping you pick out items and encourage them to share any stories they may have on each piece.
Be Respectful: Treat borrowed items with care. If needed, take the time to clean and mend them before and after wearing each piece.
Return Promptly: Always give back the items you grab and make sure to thank your family for lending you the items. You never know what it meant to them to see their old clothing be worn and lived in again.
5. Shop Internally
Take some time to shop internally in your soul. It may sound weird and cliche to mention, but take time to discover who you are. It may be as simple as having fun with your wardrobe and dressing up as you did as a kid. Summer is a time to enjoy the sun, so let your outfits shine. Here are some practical tips to shop internally starting today:
Reflect on Your Values: Consider what values you want your wardrobe to reflect. If sustainability is important to you, focus on building a wardrobe with second-hand, vintage, or ethically made pieces.
Mood Boards: Create a mood board or a style journal. Collect images, fabrics, and colors that inspire you. This visual representation can help you identify common themes and preferences in your style.
Experiment: Don't be afraid to try new things. Mix and match different pieces in your wardrobe to see what combinations you enjoy the most. Fashion should be fun, so give yourself the freedom to try fun options!
I hope these tips help you practice sustainable fashion while staying stylish this summer without spending too much money. Remember, the key to a great wardrobe is understanding who you are and letting that shine through in your choices. By buying what you need, rediscovering stored pieces, borrowing from friends and family, and reflecting on your personal style, you can create a wardrobe that is both eco-friendly and uniquely you. Sustainable fashion isn't just about making mindful purchases; it's also about embracing creativity, connections, and self-expression. Enjoy the process, have fun with your fashion journey, and make this summer a season of stylish, sustainable choices. Thanks for reading, and happy shopping!