What's Fashion Got to do With It?

 Ahhh sustainability...We hear about that word all over the place, in the news, on social media, and even from brands that we shop from. Now you might be wondering, what the heck does sustainability have to do with fashion? Honestly I always wondered the same too, before I realized that sustainability plays a major role in the clothing that we wear everyday. A lot of the beloved brands that we shop from, make mass amounts of cheaply made clothes at breakneck speeds, often at the expense of our planet. These garments are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, which take hundreds of years to break down, and the production process is energy-intensive, releasing tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

But it's not just fast fashion that's the culprit. Even high-end brands, the ones we admire for their craftsmanship and exclusivity, have been guilty of unsustainable practices. Many luxury brands use materials like leather and fur, contributing to deforestation and animal cruelty. Plus, the excessive use of water, chemicals, and dyes in the production process can wreak havoc on local ecosystems.

So, what does sustainability have to do with fashion? In short, everything. The choices we make as consumers directly impact the environment. From the fabrics we wear to the brands we support, every decision either adds to the problem or helps create a solution. But here’s the good news: the fashion industry is evolving, and more brands are beginning to recognize the importance of sustainability.

Take, for instance, Patagonia, a brand that has built its entire identity around environmental responsibility. They use recycled materials, promote ethical production practices, and encourage customers to repair rather than replace their clothing. Reformation, a favorite among millennials, also prides itself on being eco-friendly, using sustainable fabrics and transparency in their production processes.

So, whether you’re a high-fashion lover or prefer more affordable brands, there are sustainable options out there that align with your style and your values.