Sustainable Clothing Practices: How to Have a Sustainable Closet on a College Budget

Sustainable Clothing Practices

In an industry where fast fashion consumes much of the market, it can be difficult to find ways to be sustainable when it comes to what you wear. While the industry is pushing toward slower, more sustainable pieces and practices, it can be difficult on a college student budget to afford some of these sustainable brands like Everlane and Reformation. So, we’ve curated a how-to on sustainable clothing practices for college students.

Thrift your way through. Sometimes, thrifting can be discouraging because of the excessive amount of junk in the wakes. However, once you make some really good finds it all becomes worth it by the deals you get. One time, my coworker made fun of me for “spending $50 on that FILA sweatshirt at Urban Outfitters.” I happily informed him that I got it for $3 at a thrift store. Anyone you ask that has a habit of thrifting has a story about their best finds and that’s because if you look hard enough, they’re right under your nose! Try out a few thrift shops to find your favorite, and sift through the inventory every once in a while to find your favorite new closet staples on a dime!

Shop your friends’ closet. Do you think some of your friends have rockin’ style? You should get permission to raid their closet instead of heading to the mall or online for  a new outfit! Many people don’t like to be seen wearing clothes an excessive amount, so what better way to style something new for cheap than borrowing! See if your friends would be interested in some temporary clothing trading, and just make sure to take care of their stuff! Even AOC has stated she borrows clothes!

Resale is the way to go. Not only can you make money selling your old clothes, but you can again find pieces at really good deals. There are a ton of ways to go about it. Facebook marketplace can be an easy way of finding pieces locally, while websites and apps like ThredUp, Poshmark, and eBay can be great places to find pieces you want at much lower prices. My college town has a Facebook selling page with mostly college women and I’ve found some of my favorite closet for a steal there!

In an effort to save both your wallet and the environment, sustainable clothing practices can be an excellent way to give both some well-deserved relief. Once you start making these habits, they become easier and easier and your wallet and the world around you will thank you in the long run.

If you’re looking for more sustainable clothing practices or tips like this, sign up for a Student Mingle profile now!