Did you know?
Fast fashion is a phrase used to describe the trend of low-cost garments sold by multinational brands. Bulk buying of short-lived micro trends has caused fashion to become the second largest polluter on the planet. However, young people across the country have been turning the rapid production and waste of this industry on its head.
An example of this creativity is the annual Junk Kouture competition, which challenges young people to upcycle materials into high fashion garments. Junk Kouture’s slogan is “the future is circular,” and brings together students across Europe to see often discarded materials through a different lens.
How to make your wardrobe more eco-friendly
- Buy quality clothes that last. While the price tag of quality items can be daunting, a piece that lasts in your wardrobe reduces the amount of clothes that go to landfill
- Have a look at the material your clothes are made from. Many synethetic materials are made from crude oil, contributing to ecological destruction. Consider buying more natural materials like organic cotton and linen.
- Consider the company’s sustainability policy. Many brands have a history of sourcing sustainable materials and goals to ensure they are contributing positively to the world!
- Buy clothes that can be worn all year around- think every time you purchase- will this get 30 wears? Can it be loved and spark joy or is it a product of a microtrend that you will soon leave thrown at the back of your wardrobe?
- Wear your wardrobe– only 20% of an average wardrobe is worn regularly. Reworking forgotten clothes can create some stunning, unique outfits.
- Learn how to repair your clothes– sewing, stitching and mending clothes can help make your favourite items last
- Use natural and eco laundry products– many eco-products keep your clothes clean and fresh, while using natural environments with no microplastics that are major polluters.
Learn more…
Junk Kouture is open to 13-19-year-olds and challenges young people to design, upcycle and create high-end Kouture from recycled materials, and to learn more about how you can participate see:
Learn how you can join the slow fashion movement…
