Right now, many of us are cooped up at home in our favorite pair of sweatpants, and once or twice, you’ve probably caught yourself spiraling down a deep, dark, hole of online shopping—and we get the appeal. You don’t have to leave the couch, you can visit 10 stores in the span of an hour, and no one can judge you for how many of our Zero Waste scrunchies you have in your cart. But with COVID-19 preventing us from leaving our homes for a run to our favorite boutiques, it’s easy to get carried away while shopping online.
Here at Reborn Clothing Co., we understand the importance of shopping sustainably. We’re passionate about making sustainable choices, so while it can be tempting to shop all the latest trends from fast fashion brands, we believe avoiding fast fashion is key to limiting our contribution to textile waste. Investing in garments that are not only fashionable, but high-quality and timeless is a step in the right direction for building a capsule closet or just limiting your closet to the essentials.
Shopping with the environment in mind can be intimidating, so we’ve pulled together some tips and eco-brands to make shopping ethically a little easier!
1. Find sustainable companies to love.
Many companies pride themselves on their ability to be fashionable and sustainable. Mate the Label is a great basics company with chemical-free and organic cotton loungewear that is soft on the skin and the environment. Other brands like Aurorei offer pieces specifically designed to minimize your closet with tops that can be worn multiple ways. Why buy multiple shirts when you could have five rolled into one?
2. Invest in versatile pieces
If you’re anything like our team members, you’re probably spending a lot more time getting active outside, and you might be on the hunt for some new athletic (or athleisure) gear. Brands like Outdoor Voices and Girlfriend Collective have reduced their use of traditional materials and have opted to operate under eco-friendly practices for gear that’s comfortable, long-lasting and sustainable. And when it’s time to head back to the gym? Look no further than our own shop for sustainable gym bag solutions made from upcycled tees and dead stock fabric.
3. Select timeless pieces
When purchasing investment pieces, opt for timeless styles and silhouettes so you don’t lose interest in your new items. Look for pieces that can be worn year-round as well. Naadam produces soft and simple knit pieces that are sure to be a staple in any closet! They are transparent about who they work with, their environmental impact, and what their products are made from. 
4. Dress up what you already have
If you are getting a little bored of your usual jeans and t-shirt, incorporate new accessories into your look! We love using our Reborn + Sunbrella Everyday Tote or Zipper Pouch to add a pop of color to an outfit. Adding a statement necklace or earring can spice up a simple outfit too, especially when you opt for jewelry with exciting textures that draw in the eye. Soko, a Kenya-based women-empowering jeweler has unique pieces that are perfect for everyday use.
Tossing on a cute pair of kicks can also help your go-to outfits feel totally new. Check out Dr. Scholl’s new consciously crafted line and Allbirds for some seriously cute and comfy shoes, whether you’re looking for a new pair of sneakers or mules!
Made any sustainable purchases of your own lately? Show us every Sunday with the tag #SustainableSunday. We’ll reshare our faves!