While clothing shopping might not be at the top of everyone’s priorities list this summer, as long as it’s done safely and cautiously, retail therapy is a totally valid form of self-care. That being said, there’s no reason why the environment should need to suffer for our desire to own beautiful things. With that, here are five tips for shopping sustainably during a pandemic, ranked from most to least eco-friendly.
1. Shop your own closet.
There’s a good chance you’ve probably already done the whole closet clean out process at least once during quarantine. Try reworking your basics in new ways, you’ll be stunned at how different the items you already have can feel completely new to you.
2. Shop your family members closets.
Call up your parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins — whomever! Ask to rummage through their unwanted clothing (make sure you do this in accordance with your province’s COVID-19 guidelines). You may not have known that your dad was actually a style icon in the ’90s, plus, everything comes back in style eventually.
3. Hit up your local thrift/designer consignment shop.
These stores are goldmines of vintage treasures. Try to look for higher quality items like high-waisted trousers (thank you 1980s), high-quality coats, knit sweaters, and old Levi’s jeans — check the men’s section too, and please, wear a mask!
4. Buy pre-loved online.
Websites and mobile apps like Depop, Vestiaire Collective, and Poshmark have made finding trendier items for a lesser price easier than ever before. Don’t be afraid to ask the seller lots of questions about the item you’re interested in; get the measurements, ask about any damage/discolouration, and about the overall fit of the garment. Also, you’ll keep yourself safe while shopping from home!
5. Shop from a sustainable brand.
If you really do want something brand new or a more current/trendy piece, try to shop from a sustainable brand (the more local, the better). Look for brands that disclose how their garments are made, and use your discretion. Some great sustainable Canadian brands are KOTN, Harly Jae, and Encircled.
Bonus tip: Don’t be afraid of buying pieces too big! Getting clothes tailored, hemmed or taken in will actually make them look like they were made for you, often flattering you better than if you had purchased the item in your own size.
Lucie Mink is a digital marketing, branding strategist, and freelance writer. She currently works with a number of fashion brands and has more than six years of professional experience in the industry. She is deeply passionate about sustainable fashion and creating environmental change within the industry. You can find her dancing, cooking, and singing (usually at the same time) or follow her here, on Instagram.