What is Sustainable Fashion? Is It Expensive? and How to Achieve it?

Sustainable fashion has gained significant attention in recent years as people become more aware of the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry.

Bonkers Corner
7 min readFeb 9, 2024

There’s a common misconception that sustainable fashion is expensive and inaccessible for those on a budget. In reality, there are numerous practical and affordable ways to embrace ethical clothing without breaking the bank, thus making it sustainable and affordable clothing. Isn’t it beautiful?

Sustainable Fashion Bonkers Corner
Bonkers corner

We aim to debunk this misconception and empower readers to make conscious fashion choices that align with their budget constraints.

Thrift Shopping and Secondhand Sustainable Fashion

One of the most budget-friendly and sustainable ways to embrace ethical clothing is through thrift shopping and buying second-hand garments. Thrift stores offer a treasure trove of unique and quality pieces waiting to be discovered.

Thrift Shopping
Source: Pinterest

Not only does thrifting reduce clothing waste, but it also provides an opportunity to find stylish and affordable items. Tips for successful thrift shopping include visiting thrift stores in trendy neighborhoods, being patient while browsing through the racks, and keeping an open mind about styling possibilities.

Renting and Borrowing Sustainable Clothing

Clothing rental services have gained popularity in recent years, offering a sustainable alternative to fast fashion consumption. Renting clothes is not only cost-effective but also reduces the demand for new clothing production.

Renting and Borrowing Sustainable Clothing
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Platforms and websites that offer clothing rental options make it convenient and accessible for individuals to rent outfits for special occasions or everyday wear. By renting clothes instead of buying them, you can reduce your environmental footprint while enjoying a diverse and stylish wardrobe.

DIY and Upcycling Sustainable Clothing

Getting creative and repurposing your existing clothing is not only a budget-friendly option but also a fun way to express your personal style. DIY (Do-It-Yourself) and upcycling techniques allow you to transform old garments into new and unique pieces.

Sage Inside-Out Oversized T-shirt By Bonkers Corner
Sage Inside-Out Oversized T-shirt

Basic sewing and alteration skills can be easily acquired through online tutorials, enabling you to breathe new life into your wardrobe. From turning jeans into shorts to transforming oversized shirts into trendy dresses, the possibilities are endless when it comes to upcycling.

Sustainable Fashion Brands with Affordable Options

Contrary to popular belief, sustainable fashion doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag. Many ethical fashion brands offer affordable options that prioritize sustainability without compromising on style.

Bonkers Corner Sustainable Fashion Brands
Bonkers Corner Sustainable Fashion Brands

These brands often use eco-friendly materials, practice fair trade, and promote transparent supply chains. By supporting these brands, you can make a positive impact on the environment and support the workers in the fashion industry. Look for budget-friendly clothing items from sustainable brands and make conscious purchases that align with your values.

Capsule Wardrobe and Versatile Styling of Sustainable Clothing

Building a capsule wardrobe is a sustainable approach to fashion that promotes versatility and minimizes waste. By investing in a few high-quality, timeless pieces, you can create a wardrobe that offers countless outfit combinations.

Capsule Wardrobe and Versatile Styling of Sustainable Clothing
Source: Pinterest

Focus on essential items that can be mixed and matched to create various looks for different occasions. By curating a capsule wardrobe, you’ll not only save money but also reduce the need for excessive clothing consumption.

Supporting Local and Independent Designers

Supporting local and independent fashion designers is a powerful way to embrace ethical clothing while also promoting the local economy. These designers often create unique and sustainable pieces that are competitively priced.

independent fashion designers
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By purchasing from local designers, you contribute to the growth of the fashion community and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping. Explore local boutiques, attend fashion events, and engage with independent designers to discover affordable and ethical fashion options.

Exploring Sustainable Fashion: A Practical Approach

Embracing Complete Sustainability

In the realm of sustainable fashion, it’s not enough for brands to tick one box. While fair labor practices are commendable, true sustainability encompasses more. Avoiding plastic and synthetic materials is crucial.

Embracing Complete Sustainability
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To truly embody sustainability, brands must adopt a comprehensive approach, considering both environmental and social impacts. This holistic approach extends beyond individual initiatives and requires a fundamental shift in the business model.

Understanding Greenwashing

Beware of greenwashing tactics, where brands exaggerate their eco-friendliness. This misleading marketing often involves deceptive certifications. While certifications aim to build trust, they can sometimes be obtained with minimal effort, such as producing a single organic cotton t-shirt.

Understanding Greenwashing
Source: Pinterest

It’s essential to delve deeper and look beyond surface-level claims. Sustainable fashion should not merely be about meeting certain price points or using a few recycled materials; it requires a commitment to responsible sourcing of raw materials and ethical production practices. True sustainability goes beyond the glitz and glamour of fashion weeks, focusing on long-term impact and positive change.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sustainable fashion is accessible to everyone, regardless of budget constraints.

By embracing thrift shopping, renting clothes, exploring DIY and upcycling, supporting affordable sustainable brands, building a versatile capsule wardrobe, and purchasing from local designers, you can make a positive impact on the environment and your personal style.

Remember, every small step counts in creating a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry.

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Bonkers Corner is one of the most affordable sustainable fashion brands that boasts a user-friendly app and website interface, offering seamless navigation through trendy crop tops to classic denim jackets. Embrace fast fashion trends with the perfect high-waisted pair or a versatile black dress, crafted for long-lasting comfort.

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Key Takeaways

  • Embrace sustainable fashion on a budget: Thrift shop, rent clothes, DIY, support sustainable brands, build a capsule wardrobe, buy from local designers.
  • Explore thrift stores for affordable hidden gems, reducing demand for new clothing.
  • Rent clothes for events or daily wear, supporting a circular fashion economy.
  • Get creative with DIY and upcycling projects to transform old garments.
  • Look for budget-friendly sustainable brands or clothing line prioritizing eco-friendly materials.
  • Invest in timeless pieces for a versatile capsule wardrobe, reducing clutter.
  • Support local and independent designers for unique and sustainable options.

FAQs

What is sustainable fashion?
Sustainable fashion refers to clothing, shoes, and accessories that are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. This includes using eco-friendly materials, minimizing waste, and ensuring fair labor practices throughout the supply chain.

What are sustainable clothes?
Sustainable clothes are garments made from eco-friendly materials or natural fibers and processes called as sustainable practices, promoting environmental conservation and ethical labor practices, therefore reducing waste.

Why is sustainable fashion important?
Sustainable fashion is important because it helps reduce the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry. By choosing sustainable clothing and sustainable materials, consumers can support ethical practices, reduce carbon emissions, and minimize waste.

How can I shop sustainably on a budget?
There are several budget-friendly ways to embrace sustainable fashion, including thrift shopping, renting clothes, DIY and upcycling, supporting affordable sustainable brands, building a versatile capsule wardrobe, and purchasing from local designers.

What are some eco-friendly materials used in sustainable fashion?
Eco-friendly materials commonly used in sustainable fashion include organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, Tencel, recycled polyester, and eco-friendly dyes. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional fabrics.

How can I find sustainable fashion brands?
You can find sustainable fashion brands by researching online, reading reviews, and checking for certifications such as Fair Trade, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), and B Corp. Many sustainable brands also have transparent supply chains and ethical sourcing practices.

What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. By investing in timeless pieces that can be worn in different combinations, you can minimize waste and simplify your wardrobe.

Is sustainable fashion only for men or for women?
No, sustainable fashion is for everyone! There are affordable and accessible options available for people of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to invest in high-quality pieces, there are sustainable fashion choices suitable for everyone.

Can I still follow trends while using sustainable fashion?
Yes, you can follow trends while embracing sustainable fashion by focusing on timeless styles, investing in versatile pieces, and incorporating sustainable elements into your wardrobe. Many sustainable brands offer trendy and fashionable options that align with ethical and eco-friendly practices.

How can I learn more about sustainable fashion?
You can learn more about sustainable fashion by reading books, following sustainable fashion blogs and influencers, attending workshops and events, and staying informed about current issues and trends in the industry. Educating yourself is the first step towards making conscious fashion choices.

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Bonkers Corner

Bonkers Corner: Mumbai's unique online streetwear brand, crazy yet comfortable fashion. Made in India, affordable, and always fresh. www.bonkerscorner.com