3 tips for sustainable shopping

We all want to do better for our planet and its people. One way we can do that is through our shopping habits. Being a conscious consumer helps us to have a positive impact on the world. It also allows us to be more mindful of what we buy. We can purchase more sustainably in many ways, from supporting small businesses to embracing second-hand - here are TBCo’s top tips on how to be an eco-friendly shopper. 

How to shop for clothes sustainably 

With fast fashion on the rise and trends coming and going, how we invest in our wardrobe can affect not only us but the planet we live on. 

1. Quality over quantity

Investing in long-term pieces that are made to last is one of the more sustainable ways to update your wardrobe. Clothes from lesser quality materials will likely need replacing as they won’t last long. Instead, opt for high-quality products that will stand the test of time as part of a capsule wardrobe, and can even be passed down through generations.

2. Buy from sustainable brands 

This should go without saying, but choose a brand that has a purpose at its core. It can be hard to sift through the noise with so much fast fashion surrounding us but take the time to dive deeper and see what your favourite store says about sustainability. Do they give back to charities? Do they source their materials ethically? Do they pay their staff a living wage? Look for certifications like B Corp to ensure the brand’s commitment to being a force for good. 

3. Prioritise sustainable materials

Where you shop matters just as much as what you buy - textiles such as cotton, wool, and recycled fabrics require fewer resources (such as water and pesticides), and as such have a lower environmental impact compared to materials like acrylic and polyester. 

Be a conscious consumer

Once your purchase is in the bag, what you do next is just as important. Looking after the things we already have is much better than replacing them. Taking proper care of your items can extend their lifespan - follow garment care instructions, repair minor damages and mend tears instead of discarding them completely. 

Each purchase we make has the power to create a ripple effect - it’s our choice whether it’s a positive impact or not. By embracing sustainable shopping as a powerful tool for change, you’re choosing to be kinder to our planet and create positive change for those who live on it.