5 Ways You Can Shop Ethically On a Budget
Guest Post by Benita Robledo.
Yes! Believe it or not, you can shop ethically on a budget. While on average it may cost more than fast fashion because ethical brands pay their workers living wages, that doesn’t mean you have to stock your closet with $200 dresses.
Whether you’re a n00b or a seasoned ethical fashionista it’s important to remember that the journey towards an ethical closet is a marathon, not a sprint. We have to pace ourselves and find the solution that fits our unique needs.
1. Get Your Bling On
Model Benita Robledo // Photo by Emily Hess
Accessories are one of my favorite things to buy ethically because the right accessories can transform even the blandest of outfits. If you’re used to wearing fast-fashion, this will be the easiest transition for you. When you compare ethical accessories and fast-fashion accessories, the difference is clear: -- ethically made accessories are just made better.
You can also wear the same piece year-round with tons of different outfits, so you make that purchase count. With tons of ethical jewelry out there you’re sure to find one that fits your price point.
2. Host a Clothing Swap
While this technically isn't shopping, I’m adding it to the list because A) it’s free, the perfect price for any budget and B) you get new clothes without wasting resources. Swapping clothes with your friends allows you to take risks with your style without the financial strain.
I’ve learned so much about my personal style from clothing swaps, because I wasn’t worried about spending money on something I might not wear. If a piece didn’t work out I’d swap it again. Glorious!
3. Go Thrifting
Model Benita Robledo // Photo by Joyous Snyder
Thrift store shopping is one of my favorite things to do on a lazy weekend. There are so many hidden treasures! Rest assured that no matter what you buy, it’s ethical. That’s the beauty of pre-loved fashion -- you’re creating a second life for the garment and keeping it out of the landfill longer. Skip the fancy schmancy vintage boutiques and head to the used clothing store on the outskirt of town to keep your costs down. You can always find some gems without the markup. Don’t have time to browse a whole store? Check out online marketplaces like threadUP, Material World, or The Real Real. Their filters help you to shop for exactly what you’re looking for and skip the rest.
4. Be Basic
When you’re ready to take your ethical shopping game to the next level, start with your basics. Take a look at your closet and pick out the items you wear all the time. Your perfect white tee, that one blazer that goes with everything-- you get my drift. Keep those staple pieces and wear them often. When those items wear out (and only when they wear out), replace them with ethically made pieces.
Investing in pieces you can wear for years will not only make your wallet happy, but it also will show you why it’s worth it to spend that money in the first place on quality pieces. Companies like Level 99 Premium Denim and The Refugee Makers Project have beautiful garments that are ethically made and well worth their price.
5. Get Creative
Model Benita Robledo // Photo by Joyous Snyder
If you’re itching for some new clothes, chances are you don’t actually need new clothes. You’re just sick of the ones you have. Before you run out to the store, stop and look at your closet with fresh eyes. Can you combine your clothes differently? Is there a way to update something? Get creative with your clothes!
You don’t need to know how to sew in order to transform a piece of clothing. Some of my favorite shirts used to belong to my husband until I took a pair of scissors to them. He wanted to give them away, but I snagged them out of his hands took a few snips and presto! --I have a shirt that’s totally unique to me. The longer you hold on to an item, the more ethical it becomes, so play a game with yourself, and see just how many ways you can style each piece. I bet you’re more creative than you think!
Which of these speaks to you? Have you tried any of my suggestions before? Let me know in the comments!
Model Benita Robledo // Photo by Anais Ganouna.
Benita Robledo is an ethical fashion activist and speaker from Los Angeles. She’s been featured in Reuters, Sportswear International, and Peppermint Magazine just to name a few. She currently lives in Lancaster, PA with her husband, 3 cats, and way too many books. Follow her on Instagram @benita_robledo.