{"id":18077,"date":"2025-05-02T05:00:55","date_gmt":"2025-05-02T05:00:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/?p=18077"},"modified":"2025-05-02T05:01:53","modified_gmt":"2025-05-02T05:01:53","slug":"sustainable-fashion-7-simple-steps-to-an-eco-friendly-wardrobe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/sustainable-fashion-7-simple-steps-to-an-eco-friendly-wardrobe\/","title":{"rendered":"Sustainable fashion: 7 simple steps to an eco-friendly wardrobe"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStyle isn\u2019t just about what you wear. It\u2019s about how you wear it and what it stands for.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe fashion industry is estimated to account for<\/span> two to eight percent of global greenhouse gas emissions<\/span><\/a>. InAustralia alone,<\/span> 300,000 tonnes of textile waste<\/span><\/a> end up in landfills every year. The good news is, making more sustainable fashion choices can help, and it doesn\u2019t mean compromising on style.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn fact, you can look more stylish by buying quality pieces and keeping them updated with tailoring. With that in mind, we\u2019re sharing seven simple ways to build a wardrobe that looks good and is good for the planet. Let\u2019s dive straight into tip number one.<\/span>\r\n

1. Buy less and make thoughtful choices<\/b><\/h2>\r\nAs Dame Vivienne Westwood said: \u201cBuy less. Choose well. Make it last.\u201d Building a stylish wardrobe doesn\u2019t mean owning one of every item in every colour. It simply means choosing better. One beautifully made blazer will outshine five fast fashion jackets every time.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIf you\u2019re not sure where to start, a capsule wardrobe is a great foundation. By focusing on a handful of well-fitted essentials that flatter your shape and work within your colour season, you create endless outfit options without the clutter.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe<\/span> Marie Kondo method<\/span><\/a> is a helpful way to approach this \u2013 only keep or buy what truly sparks joy (and yes, that means it\u2019s time to donate or tailor that piece at the back of your wardrobe). LookSmart\u2019s expert team can help make every piece in your wardrobe feel like it was made for you.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt\u2019s also worth being mindful of online sales. Sometimes you\u2019ll find a gem, but more often, you\u2019re paying for poor construction or a fit that looks nothing like it did on the model. Quality and a good tailor will always outlast a discount.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

The Elegance Edit<\/span><\/a> [1]<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

2. If it doesn\u2019t fit, it\u2019s not finished<\/b><\/h2>\r\nA good piece only works if the fit is right. That means clean lines, the right length and a shape that suits your body. Even expensive items won\u2019t look polished if they don\u2019t sit properly.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIf something feels off, too long, too boxy, or too loose, it probably needs some tailoring. Quick fixes like taking in the waist or adjusting the length can completely change how a piece looks and feels.<\/span>\r\n\r\nYou don\u2019t need a whole new wardrobe. Tailoring lets you update what you already own, especially those pieces you like in theory but never wear. LookSmart\u2019s expert tailors can help you make these changes that actually make you want to wear your clothes again.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

3. Repair, reuse, and revamp your pieces<\/b><\/h2>\r\nThey don\u2019t make them like they used to, and that\u2019s not just nostalgia talking. Many older garments were made with higher-quality materials, stronger stitching, or design details you won\u2019t find in fast fashion today. These pieces are worth holding onto, or can be found at cheaper prices than fast fashion in second-hand shops.<\/span>\r\n\r\nRepairs and alterations aren\u2019t just about mending, they\u2019re about making your clothes match your current style. A small change like adjusting the hem, reshaping the waist, cropping trousers, orupdating buttons can modernise any piece.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt\u2019s also significantly more cost-effective. Altering a quality piece costs far less than replacing it with something of equal standard, and it keeps more clothing out of the landfill.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nOur experts can help you extend the life of your wardrobe by tailoring it to fit beautifully, for both the current and future you.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

4. Extend the life of your wardrobe<\/b><\/h2>\r\nTaking care of your clothes is one of the simplest ways to build a more sustainable wardrobe and make your favourite pieces last.<\/span>\r\n\r\nTry to wash less, and wash with care. That means selecting cold water and gentle cycles, and using laundry bags to help prevent fading, pilling or damage. For special pieces, make sure to check the label; if you’re unsure, opt for a hand wash.<\/span>\r\n\r\nHow you store your clothes matters too. Fold knitwear to avoid stretching, hang structured pieces on padded hangers, and keep everything out of direct sunlight to protect its colour and shape.<\/span>\r\n\r\nFor quick fixes, sew on a loose button, use a fabric shaver to remove pilling, or gently steam instead of overwashing. Extending the life of your clothes really does make a difference. One <\/span>study from Wrap UK<\/span><\/a> found that wearing your clothes for just nine extra months can reduce their carbon footprint by 8%, water use by 10%, and waste by 4%.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

Hindustan Times<\/span><\/a> [4]<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

5. Choose natural and recycled materials<\/b><\/h2>\r\nSome of the most luxurious fabrics you can wear (like wool, linen, and organic cotton) are also the most sustainable. They\u2019re breathable, long-lasting, and get better with age when properly cared for.<\/span>\r\n\r\nCommon synthetic fibres like polyester shed microplastics and take decades to break down. What surprises some people is that even natural fibres can lose recyclability once dyed or printed. When choosing sustainable fabrics, look for undyed, minimally treated natural fibres or certified recycled materials. These not only feel great to wear but are also the most sustainable choice.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAt LookSmart, we work with all types of fabrics, including delicate natural fibres, and tailor them with precision. We also partner with textile recyclers like <\/span>Upparel<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>BlockTexx<\/span><\/a>, to do our part in helping to close the loop on fashion, one stitch at a time.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

Kowtow<\/span><\/a> [5]\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

6. Shop local and support ethical brands<\/b><\/h2>\r\nShopping locally is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to support sustainable fashion. With no need for long-distance shipping, local garments often come with a much smaller carbon footprint. They\u2019re also usually made in smaller batches, with more attention to detail and higher quality finishes. Best of all, your purchase supports real people and small businesses in your community, not big global corporations with less accountability.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAt LookSmart, we\u2019re an Australian brand with expert tailors across the country who know how to make clothes fit well and last. Choosing local services like ours means you\u2019re getting quality work while also supporting fair wages, lower emissions, and a more thoughtful way to shop.<\/span>\r\n\r\nEthical fashion is about more than the clothes you wear. It\u2019s a lifestyle choice that supports fair wages, transparency, and slower, more considered fashion. Look for brands accredited by <\/span>Ethical Clothing Australia<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>Certified B Corporations<\/span><\/a>, guaranteeing ethical production and a genuine (not greenwashed) commitment to sustainability.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

7. The circular economy: recycling and second-hand fashion<\/b><\/h2>\r\nSecond-hand shopping has well and truly come back in vogue, and for good reason. In the US, the second-hand clothing market is <\/span>growing seven times faster<\/span><\/a> than the broader clothing market. It\u2019s sustainable, budget-friendly, and honestly, half the fun is in the hunt. There\u2019s something satisfying about finding a unique piece no one else has.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWhen shopping second-hand, look for quality fabrics like linen, wool, or cotton, and pieces with interesting cuts or structure. Don\u2019t worry if the fit isn\u2019t perfect \u2013 alterations can completely transform a piece and make it feel like it was made for you.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nWith the right tailoring, a vintage blazer or too-long skirt can become your go-to staple. At LookSmart, we help you give second-hand finds a fresh new life, so they look great, last longer, and fit your style.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

Hostelworld<\/span><\/a> [7]<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Summing up<\/b><\/h2>\r\nSustainable fashion is about making practical choices that align with your values. Whether that’s buying less, tailoring what you already own, shopping second-hand, or just taking better care of your clothes, the impact adds up. Choosing quality fabrics, supporting ethical brands, and investing in pieces that last means building a wardrobe that works for you and does right by the planet.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIf you\u2019ve got clothes you love in theory, but don\u2019t wear, now\u2019s the time for their makeover. Book a fitting with <\/span>LookSmart Alterations<\/span><\/a> and bring your wardrobe back to life.<\/span>\r\n

FAQs<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Are vegan fashion products sustainable, too?<\/b><\/h3>\r\nVegan leather, shoes, and wallets are often marketed as eco-friendly, but aren\u2019t all created equal. While many vegans have their heart in the right place, some vegan materials are made from synthetic fibres which can be harmful to the environment. Look for recycled or plant-based vegan options when possible.<\/span>\r\n

How can I tell if a fashion brand is ethical or sustainable?<\/b><\/h3>\r\nLook for certifications like Ethical Clothing Australia, B Corp, or membership in the Alliance for Sustainable Fashion. Look at the brand\u2019s website, as ethical brands usually want to share where and how their clothes are made, what fabrics they use, and whether they pay a living wage.<\/span>\r\n

What does \u2018carbon neutrality\u2019 mean in fashion?<\/b><\/h3>\r\nCarbon neutrality means a brand is working to cancel out the emissions it creates. This is usually done by offsetting through things like tree planting or investing in renewable energy. It\u2019s a great first step, but it only makes a real impact when it\u2019s backed by genuine change from a brand. That means using better materials, reducing waste, and rethinking how clothes are made, not buying offsets to look good on paper.<\/span>\r\n

Is linen really sustainable?<\/b><\/h3>\r\nYes, linen is made from flax, which needs less water and fewer chemicals than cotton. Linen dresses, pants, and shirts are long-lasting, naturally breathable, and get softer over time, making them a great staple for any sustainable wardrobe. You can also get linen sheets, which are breathable and look great.<\/span>\r\n

Is there a difference between eco-friendly and ethical fashion?<\/b><\/h3>\r\nWhile they are both important, there is a difference between the two. Eco-friendly fashion focuses on environmental impact, like materials and production processes. Ethical fashion includes environmental elements, fair wages, safe working conditions, and social responsibility throughout the fashion supply chain.<\/span>\r\n

Sources<\/b><\/h2>\r\n[1] The Elegance Edit.<\/span> Build a Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe<\/span><\/a>. Published February 27, 2023.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[2] Gizia.<\/span> High-Waisted Gray Women\u2019s Suit with Wide-Leg Pants<\/span><\/a>. Published 2024.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[3] The Spruce Crafts. <\/span>Techniques for Sewing Clothing<\/span><\/a>. Published August 5, 2020.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[4] Hindustan Times. <\/span>Garment steamer buying guide: How to use, what fabrics it suits, and more<\/span><\/a>. Published August 23, 2024.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[5] Kowtow. <\/span>Silhouette Pant \u2013 Evening Navy<\/span><\/a>. Published 2024.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[6] Instagram. <\/span>The perfect fit, made easy at @looksmart.alteration<\/span><\/a>. Published February, 2025.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[7] Hostelworld. <\/span>10 best places for vintage shopping around the world<\/span><\/a>. Published December 9, 2019.<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Style isn\u2019t just about what you wear. It\u2019s about how you wear it and what it stands for. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":18085,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[47],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18077","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fashion"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18077","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18077"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18077\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18090,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18077\/revisions\/18090"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18085"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18077"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18077"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18077"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}

The Spruce Crafts<\/span><\/a> [3]<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Gizia<\/span><\/a> [2]<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n