As eco-friendly choices become the norm, many are reevaluating their fashion habits post-pandemic.
Sustainable fashion is now a leading trend. While some fashion enthusiasts have embraced ethical clothing for years, sustainability has surged to the forefront recently.
Research indicates that over 50% of consumers have altered their lifestyles to lessen their environmental footprint since the pandemic began.
Additionally, data from Lyst shows a 37% rise in online searches for sustainability-related terms, including “upcycled fashion” and “second-hand.”
“Sustainable fashion has grown significantly, especially accelerated by the pandemic as individuals recognized their influence on climate change,” notes a sustainability expert.
Bridgett Artise, co-founder of Sustainable Fashion Week, emphasizes that the pandemic exposed the detrimental effects of fast fashion and the injustices faced by many garment workers.
“People became more aware of the fashion industry's dark side while scrolling through social media,” Artise explains.
She hopes that the current interest in sustainable fashion will be lasting. In this area, “trend” can be problematic, as the pursuit of trends often drives fast fashion demand.
Nonetheless, experts like Turner identify six trends poised to advance sustainable fashion and enhance accessibility: celebrity resale, capsule wardrobes, biodegradable materials, local shopping, fashion recycling, and a focus on diversity and inclusivity.
Celebrity Resale
According to a report from Business Insider, 85% of textiles end up in landfills each year. Selling unwanted clothes and opting for second-hand purchases can significantly reduce this waste.
“Celebrities and influencers are increasingly endorsing thrifting to their followers,” says Turner. “Many are selling their luxury items through resale platforms, allowing others to enjoy high-quality pieces at a fraction of the new price.”
Shopping for second-hand clothing can actually enhance your wardrobe. “Second-hand finds are often unique and can help you stand out from the fast-fashion crowd,” Turner adds.
The Capsule Wardrobe
As the pandemic limited occasions to buy new clothes, many of us rediscovered the versatility of our existing wardrobes. “We realized that our current pieces could serve multiple purposes,” Turner states. “This has led to the popularity of capsule wardrobes, a positive development for sustainability.”
A capsule wardrobe consists of a carefully selected collection of clothing (typically under 50 pieces) that can be mixed and matched for years.
To build your own capsule, evaluate your current wardrobe and identify preferred colors and styles. Get rid of items that no longer suit your taste or needs. “Then invest in a standout piece,” Artise suggests, like a classic black blazer that you’ll wear often.” Turner advises looking for durable materials like pure cotton or silk, which can last a lifetime with proper care.
Artise recommends sourcing many items for your capsule wardrobe from thrift stores. Key basics might include two button-down shirts (one white, one patterned), two pencil skirts (one black, one patterned), and two pairs of slacks (one black, one patterned). “It’s all about cherishing your clothing and only purchasing pieces that truly resonate with you,” she emphasizes.
Biodegradable Materials
The use of biodegradable materials in fashion is increasingly popular, with designers exploring innovative fabrics like rose petal silk, cactus leather, and mushroom leather.
“The fashion industry is experimenting with a wide range of new bio-based materials,” Turner observes. There was a time when eco-friendly items were exclusive to high-end boutiques, but that’s changing.
“As technology advances and competition rises, the cost of sustainable products is expected to decrease,” Turner predicts. Fast fashion brands are also beginning to adapt. For instance, Zara’s parent company Inditex aims to make all its cotton, linen, and polyester sustainable by 2025. “By finding sustainable alternatives and scaling up these processes, we can phase out environmentally harmful fabrics,” Turner explains.
Shopping Locally
The pandemic severely impacted small businesses, prompting many consumers to prioritize local shopping. “There’s a renewed community focus,” Artise notes. Supporting local shops can yield global benefits.
“Local businesses positively affect the environment by sourcing materials nearby, employing local workers, and significantly reducing international shipping,” Turner states.
Fashion Recycling
Fashion recycling, or circular thinking, involves reusing materials repeatedly within the fashion sector. “This approach minimizes waste and reduces the need for new resources,” Turner explains.
Artise believes this method is one of the best ways to promote sustainability. “While the fashion industry is not fully circular yet, many brands are embracing this shift,” Turner adds. Enhanced recycling technologies are emerging that claim to effectively separate and recycle blended materials.
“The movement towards circular thinking is a significant trend that will persist,” Turner affirms.
Increased Diversity and Inclusion
In 2020, all sectors, including fashion, faced scrutiny over diversity and inclusion, prompting major brands to take action towards ethical practices.
“Issues like environmental justice, racial inequity, and cultural appropriation have gained prominence in brand discussions,” Turner states. “The pandemic compelled us to reflect and push brands to improve their practices.”
