Fashionably Green: Picking Greener Clothing Choices

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By Rachel Derry
Staff Writer LIFamilies

Trying to spruce up your wardrobe this fall? Why not revamp in a cool, green way. Going green isn’t just about recycling and reducing your use: everything you buy and utilize has an effect on the environment, whether good or bad, and leaves its own footprint. There are a couple easy and effect ways to update your wardrobe in an earth friendly manner.

Go with the new style of vintage by going second-hand rather than repro. Not only are there the usual thrift-stores and yard sales where brave shoppers will find their unique find, but now trendy consignment stores are popping up all over the place as another alternative. One step further, there are even many online clothing consignment stores now available for you to shop from the comforts of your own home. Why bother buying a remake of an old-school style when you can own the original and offer the earth a helping hand.

When you go shopping for new clothing, check the tag. Many people are location conscious when shopping nowadays, meaning they’ll check to see where an item was made. Buying USA made helps because not only does it ensure that jobs stay local, but also that the item didn’t have to fly across the world, using fossil fuels to get to you. When checking the tag, though, be sure to also check the materials the item is made from. The productions of natural materials, such as cotton and wool, have much less of an effect on the environment.

Also, when shopping for new clothing, try buying local items rather than conglomerate goods. In larger populated areas (such as NYC and Long Island) there are local designers and producers to be found who create their own lines for boutique and online sales. Many times these vendors are where you can find truly green goods, made from recycled and reuse fabrics in a green fashion. An additional plus, by buying these local good not only are you going greener, but you’re also supporting your local economy and small business.

Long Island Green Living Articles > Fashionably Green: Picking Greener Clothing Choices