How to practice sustainable fashion?

Do you love fashion but worry about its impact on the planet? You are not alone. A growing community of producers, designers, and consumers is transforming the industry, proving that it's possible to dress stylishly in a more sustainable way.

The positive shift: Redefining fashion with purpose

We're now seeing more and more brands embrace more sustainable practices, from reducing water use and carbon emissions to pioneering waste management and using organic materials, all while ensuring fair labor conditions. This collective shift is moving the entire industry from a linear model toward a circular approach that designs out waste and keeps materials in use.

Circular Production Model in the Textile Industry. Source: own elaboration

Your first step: A simple change in where you shop

Next time you need something new, try a brand that prioritizes the planet. Look for brands with positive stories behind their materials, like using deadstock fabric, fabric remnants, or innovative materials like recycled plastic bottles.

Brands that inspire: examples of sustainability in action

Curious about what these brands look like? Here are a few inspiring examples:

• Zero Waste Daniel (New York) designs clothing and accessories that use materials that are discarded during the manufacturing process in the garment industry.
• Leeannhuang (Los Angeles) is a brand that manufactures clothing, in small batches, using recycled or deadstock materials and with OEKO-TEX certified materials and manufacturing processes.
• Patagonia (US) uses materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and merino wool to create high-quality products that are designed to last and reduce waste.

On a personal note, as an Argentine, I love supporting local initiatives like Botela. I have one of their belt bags made from recycled plastic bottles, it's not only durable and practical for everyday use, but it also feels great knowing that my choice supports a circular economy.