Cheers to an Eco-Conscious Closet

@brookpower

Adopting a sustainable lifestyle is something I've been working on for quite some time now. It was overwhelming at first, but I decided to start small by swapping out all the products in my bathroom. My closet, however, has proven to be more difficult. There's always the daunting fear that you're going to find out that your favorite brand is like... killing the planet, and what if I'm not ready to let go of my favorite boots from 2008? I am by no means perfect, and it is a lot to take in at once, but baby steps, right? For those of you that want to take the next step, here are some easy adjustments I've made in the efforts of a more sustainable wardrobe.

1. Get Informed AF The first step is to do your research. Spend time looking for brands whose values align with yours, and pay attention to things such as: -Where they source their materials -Their production process -What materials they use to make their clothes Once you start gathering all this knowledge, it'll become so much easier for you to find your new favorite brands.

2. Go for quality not quantity

This is one of the first lessons my mother ever taught me, whether it's the people in your life or the shoes on your feet. I like to invest in better quality pieces (even if they are at a higher price point) to ensure that it's something I can keep in my closet forever. I also tend to go for more timeless pieces; that way, I avoid buying anything that is doomed to go out of style the next month.

3. Shop vintage or secondhand!! And donate your unwanted clothes!!

There is no greater act of love than giving your unwanted items a new happy home. That being said, there is also no greater joy than slipping on a pair of vintage jeans that feel like they were made especially for you. I've listed some of my favorite places to shop vintage (in no particular order):

@sororitevintage

@svc_____

@thevintagetwin

@imparfaiteparis

@courtyard_la

It's been an eye-opening experience for me as I learn more and more about how much of a negative impact my shopping choices have on this planet (the fashion industry alone is responsible for 10 percent of the Earth's carbon emissions). I don't think we quite realize the power our pockets hold, which is why it's so important as consumers to stand up for what we believe is right.

On her website, Stella McCartney writes, "I don't think that things have to look ugly because they're organic; why can't they be beautiful as well?" And I'm here to preach the same thing. Today, dressing sustainably does not mean you have to make any sacrifices. It also doesn't mean you have to toss out everything you own and wear dresses made out of old shoelaces. I'm not asking you to make any drastic changes, but instead make an effort to make more conscious choices next time you go shopping. It's not a perfect process, but it is one step in a direction towards a much happier, healthier planet, and that's all I can really ask for.

Love always,

Melania