Embracing Sustainable Fashion: Simple Steps to Making a Big Impact

In a world driven by fast-paced trends and throwaway culture, the fashion industry’s environmental and ethical impact is increasingly under scrutiny. Sustainable fashion emerges as a powerful solution, promoting a harmonious blend of style and responsibility. It transcends mere clothing; it embodies a commitment to eco-friendly materials, ethical production processes, and fair labour practices. Mehak Walia in conversation with Tushita Mehta, the founder of Style Island and the VP of marketing for Social Entrepreneur Club, UBC.

Many of us are seeing sustainable fashion as a term everywhere, prominently being associated with Bollywood actresses like Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone who have been repeating their wedding ensembles to promote sustainability but, let’s be honest- Choosing sustainable fashion isn’t just a trend; it’s a transformative choice with widespread benefits. By opting for eco-friendly and ethical clothing, individuals contribute to a healthier planet and support communities worldwide. Founded by Tushita Mehta, Delhi-based Style Island is a sustainable clothing and lifestyle brand working towards introducing eco-ethically produced goods. As a VP of Marketing, at the Social Entrepreneurship Club, she was required to galvanize support for the adoption of sustainable products among global stakeholders, policymakers, and consumers. Additionally, she conducted rigorous research to understand consumers’ lifestyle needs in developed as well as developing nations.

Discussing fashion sustainability as a whole, the talented diva exclaimed, “Sustainable fashion refers to the production, consumption, and disposal of clothing in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. The fashion industry has long been associated with various negative impacts, such as resource depletion, pollution, and labour exploitation. Sustainable fashion aims to address these issues by promoting ethical and eco-friendly practices throughout the entire fashion supply chain. It’s perfectly ‘cool’ to prioritize sustainability and personal significance over fleeting fashion fads. Every piece of clothing has a story, and we can make a powerful statement by reimagining and reusing our treasures, giving them a new lease on life in the process. As sustainability becomes a more prominent concern globally, many fashion brands are incorporating these principles into their business models to contribute to a more sustainable and responsible industry.”

Her zeal and wish to carry out eco-ethical fabric construction on a large-scale production level led her to build Style Island, a brand that made changes like using 50% less water than other garment manufacturers. Their commitment to water conservation ensures that every garment is not just stylish but also contributes to a greener planet. Further, their commitment to superior quality means less wear and tear, ensuring your wardrobe staples last longer and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Each of the brand’s pieces is created to withstand trends, promoting longevity and reducing the impact of disposable fashion on the planet. From design to production, the brand prioritizes efficiency to minimize waste. The Style Island’s commitment to low-waste practices ensures that every garment tells a story of mindful creation.

Discussing the advantages of this shift to fashion sustainability, Tushita Mehta said, “Sustainable fashion aims to minimize the negative effects of clothing production on the environment by using eco-friendly materials, reducing pollution, and conserving resources. Sustainable fashion emphasizes fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers’ rights, addressing issues such as child labour and exploitation in the fashion industry. Embracing sustainable practices can lead to the long-term viability of the fashion industry by reducing reliance on finite resources and promoting more efficient and resilient supply chains. Sustainable fashion promotes the creation of high-quality, durable garments, encouraging a shift away from disposable, fast fashion items that contribute to a throwaway culture.”

Long-term economic advantages and the superior quality associated with sustainable garments underscore the wisdom of this shift. So, do you want to incorporate the magic and beauty of sustainable fashion into your life? Well, let’s get the process going. Here are 5 simple and convenient ways to help you get there.

5 Simple Ways to Incorporate Sustainable Fashion in Your Life:

1. Mindful Consumption:

In a society accustomed to fast fashion, adopting mindful consumption is key. Prioritize quality over quantity, investing in timeless pieces that stand the test of trends. A wardrobe built on thoughtful choices minimizes environmental impact and fosters a sustainable mind set.

2. Second-hand and Vintage Shopping:

Explore the charm of second-hand and vintage shopping. Not only does this practice reduce clothing waste, but it also unveils unique fashion treasures. Bollywood stars like Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone have set a trend by reusing their wedding sarees, emphasizing the beauty of treasured pieces with sentimental value.

3. Clothing Swaps:

Transform your social circle into a fashion haven by organizing or participating in clothing swap events. Swapping garments with friends or the community is not only an eco-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe but also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.

4. DIY and Upcycling:

Embrace your inner creativity by turning old clothes into new, personalized pieces. DIY projects and upcycling not only breathe new life into forgotten garments but also allow for self-expression and a sense of accomplishment.

5. Support Sustainable Brands:

Direct your purchasing power toward brands committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Bollywood stars endorsing sustainable fashion, like Priyanka Chopra and Kareena Kapoor Khan, amplify the importance of supporting brands that align with environmental and ethical values.

Raising awareness about sustainable fashion is crucial. Education empowers consumers to make informed choices, fostering a collective shift towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry. Share your knowledge and encourage discussions within your community to amplify the impact of sustainable choices. Incorporating sustainable fashion into our lives is not just a personal choice; it’s a collective responsibility. By making mindful decisions, embracing second-hand treasures, participating in clothing swaps, exploring DIY projects, and supporting ethical brands, each individual becomes a catalyst for positive change.

After all, Tushita believes that this trend is here to stay, “Consumer awareness regarding environmental and social issues is on the rise. As people become more informed about the impact of their choices, there is a growing demand for products that align with their values, including sustainable fashion. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Generation Z, are more environmentally and socially conscious. The digital age and the influence of social media have enabled information about sustainable fashion practices to spread rapidly. Celebrities, influencers, and fashion bloggers often use their platforms to promote sustainable brands and practices, amplifying the message and encouraging widespread adoption. While the momentum of trends can be influenced by various factors, the multifaceted nature of sustainability and its alignment with evolving societal values suggest that sustainable fashion is likely to continue shaping the industry in 2024 and beyond.”

Bollywood stars and influencers, with their influence, highlight that sustainable fashion can be glamorous, setting the stage for a stylish and eco-conscious future for generations to come. This mindful shift, marked by intentionality and responsibility, ensures a sustainable fashion legacy for the evolving world of style, spanning beyond fleeting trends.