Here's How I Transformed My Wardrobe Into An Environment-Friendly (Yet Fashionable) Space

When I first heard about the 17 year-old-climate change warrior Greta Thunberg talk passionately about the future of our planet, I knew I wasn't doing enough. A working woman with a flair for fashion, how could I possibly start making a difference? Thanks to Google, I continued surfing and scouring for data, until I found out - it takes 3781 liters of water to produce a pair of jeans

(United Nations Environment Programme). Devastating, right? There it was - my first cue. That's when I decided to give my wardrobe a sustainable makeover.

Now if you're thinking bamboo toothbrushes and basic beanies, halt! Sustainable fashion is a world in its own - vibrantly à la mode without wreaking havoc on the environment.

Here's what I did to give my wardrobe an eco-friendly makeover-

1. The 30-Wear Rule

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Remember when the single-wear trend was cool and repeating outfits was frowned upon? Thank god we're past that.

One needs to fathom the environment disruption fast fashion is causing to realise how utopian (and if I may say, senseless) the concept of single-use clothes is. And that's why I opted for the 30-wear rule - buying clothes that you'll wear at least 30 times.

Doing this gave me clarity about my fashion choices, and made me creative with styling too!

2. Sustainable Fiber - A Big Yes!

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When shopping, we frequent the tag for several reasons - size, price, washing instructions even. However, how many of us actually look for the eco-friendly sign on the tag? That's exactly what I started doing. My go-to sustainable fabric is Lenzing's EcoVero, common in brands like Global Desi, AND, J. Crew, ESPRIT, etc. The EcoVero fibers are derived from sustainable wood and pulp, coming from certified and controlled sources. Nearly all the chemicals used during the production of EcoVero are recovered and reused.

Moreover, Lenzing EcoVero fibers have been certified with the EU Ecolabel as meeting high environmental standards throughout their life cycle: from raw material extraction to production, distribution, and disposal.

3. Spend On Trans-Seasonal Clothes

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Start by buying clothes you'd be able to wear all year long - shirts, jeans, timeless coats, classic dresses. Shelling out big bucks on a new wardrobe every season isn't just heavy on the pockets, but comes at the cost of our environment.

4. Upcycling

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With a new trend to jump to every day, our wardrobes are constantly (and sometimes, mindlessly) restocked. But then again, the dirty and fast fashion is an ever-growing threat to the environment. And that's why I decided to shop less, style more, and upcycle! The internet is full of DIY tutorials, a couple of simple steps and you'd have your upcycled garment ready. My top suggestions will be ripped jeans, side-striped pants (all you need is an old pair of jeans and velvet ribbon), and crop tops!

Going sustainable has undoubtedly been one of the most gratifying decisions I've made. When are you giving your wardrobe an eco-friendly spin?