Decoding top 5 myths about sustainable fashion

Sustainable fashion refers to clothing that is manufactured, designed and distributed to the planet in a kind way. It goes hand in hand with ethical fashion, which means that clothes are produced in a way that is kind to people (workers, traders and raw material producers). But there are a few myths about sustainable fashion industry. Being a sustainable fashion shopper is a confusing experience these days. People often avoid buying sustainable fashion because they think it doesn’t look good or it’s too expensive. This is why we hope to bring out the truth about those common myths about sustainable fashion so that reality can be distinguished from fiction.

Myth #1:  Sustainable fashion is expensive.

Price is one of the most common misconceptions about ethical fashion. When you buy a sustainable product it will seem expensive compared to something made out of synthetic materials. The perspective of affordability differs from  person to person. Considering how a sustainable brand offers fair working conditions for employees, the investment is also worthwhile. Spending more on better quality clothes that don’t harm the environment and pay their workers fairly,  is supporting the fashion economy as well as our desire for clothing consumption. It will last a long time, which means that the initial investment pays off in the end.

However, being truly sustainable is free! The best way to be sustainable is to wear the clothes that are already available. Therefore, being sustainable is the cheapest fashion choice one can make.

Myth #2: If a brand says they are sustainable, then they are.

There is no regulation or standardisation of the use of  words such as sustainable, ethical, conscious and environment friendly. Hence, these words alone can’t necessarily be trusted. While these words can guide us towards brands that align with our values, it’s more significant to look at the specific practices the brand uses. What kind of materials and dyes they use, the kind of traceability they have of their supply chain, Do they pay decent wages and guarantee safe working conditions? Do they power their operations with fossil fuels or do they use wind and solar power? Do they take responsibility for their waste? Are they overproducing or  producing in small quantities? These are some questions that can help in distinguishing a true sustainable brand from a fast fashion brand.

Myth #3 Ethical fashion is boring and basic

This myth about sustainable fashion couldn’t be further from the truth! The only visual difference between fast fashion and ethical fashion clothing is that ethical fashion is designed to be timeless and does not follow the changing trends. Slow Fashion values ​​the quality of the garments with the intention that they last a lifetime. Reducing the constant production of trendy pieces to timeless, high-quality pieces is a practical option for many sustainable fashion brands. But they are anything but boring. Ethical fashion comes in all sorts of colours, styles and creative designs, so there is no need to compromise when making the switch to sustainable fashion

Myth #4: It is necessary to get rid of fast fashion to have a sustainable wardrobe.

Sustainable fashion isn’t really about what brands are in a wardrobe. It’s more about  mindset and habits. It is more sustainable to keep and wear the old, owned fast fashion clothes, than to get rid of it and buy new clothes from sustainable brands.

Myth #5: It is hard to find

Due to the global discussion about sustainability and environmental concerns, many brands are moving towards sustainable fashion.Therefore, everyone from designers to big fashion brands are switching to environment-friendly products. It is just one click away.

All these myths block the way to green shopping. However, sustainable fashion is all about the environment and ethics. It is affordable and fashionable. Contrary to popular belief, It is available online and offline, just waiting for a chance.