5 Sustainable Fashion Tips Every Girl Should Live By

Sustainability in fashion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a responsibility we all share that starts with small, everyday choices. Whether you’re stepping into a thrift store for the first time or figuring out how to make your wardrobe last, here are five easy tips to build a wardrobe that’s as kind to the planet as it is chic.   

1) Take care of your clothes. 

Caring for your clothes is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to practice sustainability. Washing clothes on a cold cycle, air-drying them instead of using a dryer, and handling delicate fabrics with care can extend the life of your wardrobe. Investing in high-quality basics and treating them well helps you avoid the endless cycle of replacing worn-out fast fashion items.  

2) Only buy pieces YOU want. 

In a world of ever-changing trends and with fashion brands releasing up to 1000 new styles a week, it’s easy to feel pressure to keep up. Instead, focus on curating a closet that reflects your personal style instead of a “perfect” aesthetic. Before purchasing, ask yourself: “Will I still love this in a year?” Prioritizing timeless pieces over trends reduces waste and ensures you’ll actually wear, and love, what you buy. 

3) Don’t dump, donate.

When it’s time to part with an item, consider its next home. Donate gently used clothes to local shelters, thrift stores, or organizations that support people in need. You can even participate in clothing swaps or resell items on platforms like Depop and Poshmark. Every item that finds a new home avoids a trip to the landfill. 

4) Buy from brands you know and trust.

Supporting brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical labor practices is always in style. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, B Corp, or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) to ensure your purchase aligns with your values. Don’t be afraid to research a brand’s practices before hitting “add to cart.” If you’re not sure where to start, sites like Good On You rate thousands of brands based on how sustainable they are. Lately, we’ve been loving Sami Mori Vintage, a black female owned brand that ethically designs and produces clothing from vintage and deadstock materials in Los Angeles (check out our blog post here!). 

5) Embrace secondhand and DIY.

Secondhand shopping is no longer just about saving money, it’s about saving the planet. Thrift stores, vintage shops, and online resale platforms are full of unique finds. If something isn’t quite your style, get creative! Learning basic sewing or DIY skills can help you upcycle old pieces into something fresh and totally you. Looking for inspo? Check out our parent organization on IG @reimagined.club. 

Sustainability starts with small, thoughtful choices. By being intentional about how you shop, care for, and let go of your clothes, you’re not just refashioning a wardrobe—you’re helping to refashion a better future.