Let’s face it, the fashion industry hasn’t always had the best reputation when it comes to saving the planet. For years, fast fashion has been pumping out clothes at crazy speeds, often at the cost of the environment and ethical labor. But things are finally changing. And fast.
More and more people are waking up to the impact their clothes have, not just on style, but on the world. From big fashion houses to everyday shoppers, there’s a major shift happening toward sustainable fashion. And honestly? It’s one of the best things to happen to the industry.
So, what exactly is sustainable fashion?
In simple terms, it means making clothes in a way that’s better for the planet and the people on it. Think eco-friendly fabrics, ethical labor, recycled materials, less waste, and clothes made to last.
But it’s also about mindset - buying less, wearing more, and thinking twice before grabbing that next “trending” outfit you’ll only wear once.
The rise of secondhand and slow fashion
The secondhand market is booming. And it’s not just because people are trying to save a few bucks (though that’s a plus!). More shoppers are realizing that buying pre-loved clothes is better for the environment, and way more unique than picking something off a fast fashion rack.
Get this: The secondhand clothing market is expected to grow from $197 billion in 2023 to $350 billion by 2028. That's HUGE. Apps, thrift stores, resale platforms - they’re all becoming go-to spots for fashion lovers who want something cool and conscious.
Meanwhile, fast fashion is still growing, but it’s also under fire. The industry is one of the biggest polluters on the planet, producing 897 million metric tons of CO2 in 2021 alone. And if nothing changes, that number could hit 1.3 billion by 2030. Not exactly the legacy we want to leave behind.
Why we need to care
Fast fashion doesn’t just hurt the environment. It’s also tied to unfair labor practices, poor working conditions, and a throwaway culture where clothes are treated as disposable.
Sustainable fashion flips that on its head. It promotes:
- Ethical working conditions
- Higher quality pieces that last longer
- Materials that are kinder to the earth (like organic cotton, recycled fabrics, or even vegan leather made from pineapples)
And the best part? Sustainable fashion is no longer boring. You can find pieces that are stylish, affordable, and way more unique than anything mass-produced.
Big brands are joining the movement
Even major companies are taking notice. Brands like H&M, Zara and Woolworths are under pressure to change, and while they’re not perfect, they’ve started using more sustainable materials and testing out recycling and resale programs.
In 2022, over 56% of fashion brands started using recycled or eco-friendly materials, and 46% used more sustainable packaging. There’s still a long way to go, but it’s a start.
And let’s not forget the rise of circular fashion - where clothes are reused, repurposed, or recycled instead of tossed in the trash. Platforms like The RealReal and Yaga are leading the way, making it easier than ever to buy and sell high-quality secondhand fashion.
We all have a role to play
Whether you're a shopper, designer, or brand owner, you can make a difference:
👕 Shop secondhand or vintage — it's more sustainable and you’ll stand out
🧵 Buy less, choose better — invest in timeless pieces that last
🔁 Support ethical brands — do your research and back businesses doing it right
♻️ Recycle or resell your clothes — don’t let them end up in a landfill
🌍 Talk about it — inspire others to think more consciously too
Final Thoughts
Sustainable fashion isn’t just for eco-warriors or trendsetters. It’s for everyone who cares about the future of our planet, and the future of style.
It’s cooler, more unique, and more meaningful. And as more people make the switch, we're building a new kind of fashion industry — one that puts people and the planet first.
Style can still be fun. It can still be bold. And now, it can also be sustainable.
Want to explore sustainable fits that look good and save the planet?
Check out our Collection