Recycling and Upcycling: Eco-Friendly Fashion Trends

As sustainable fashion grows more popular, it is important to determine what exactly constitutes “sustainable.” Are we talking about sourced material? Repurposing used items? Or does sustainability mean something else entirely?

Shopping sustainably simply means that you purchase your clothing (and other items) with the environment in mind. In other words, you are more concerned about landfills, harmful chemicals, fast fashion, and large amounts of waste.

A common assumption is that sustainable shopping refers to shopping secondhand. While thrift stores and secondhand shops are indeed sustainable, they are not the only way for you to recycle and upcycle.

Tips for Recycling and Upcycling Your Clothing

You can make a difference in the world through what you wear. Simply looking at your closet with a fresh set of eyes encourages sustainable living. Consider the following tips for recycling and upcycling.

1. Instead of buying new, refresh what you already own.

If you spend much time on YouTube, you’ve probably come across more than one “thrift flip” video. Thrift flips take old pieces of clothing and turn them into something new with a little bit of cutting, pinning, or sewing. While many influencers do this with thrift store clothes, you can also do it with clothes you already own. Check the internet for some inspiration, then turn old items in your closet into new items that you are excited to wear.

2. Shop at and donate to second-hand stores.

Shopping second hand is a bit like going on a treasure hunt. The possibility always exists that you will find a piece that cannot be purchased anywhere else. Buying second hand reduces waste, but don’t forget to donate as well! Instead of tossing old clothes in the trash can, take it to your local thrift store. Or, if you want to make a few dollars, sell it to a name brand consignment shop.

3. Have “swap shops” with friends.

If you find yourself in a closet rut, text your friends to see if they are in a rut as well. Consider trading items in your closet so that everyone has something new to wear with zero waste and no money spent!

4. Purchase organic clothing.

Many brands have started selling organic clothing. Organic clothing is typically made with biodegradable materials (such as natural cotton) and does not feature the harmful toxins and chemicals found on fast fashion items.

Other Ways to Stay Sustainable

Again, while recycling is important, “sustainable” refers to more than merely wearing someone else’s clothes. The following are four additional ways you can go green and help the environment.

1. Hang your clothes to dry.

Try only washing your clothes every few wears, and hang them to dry. This cuts back on energy usage.

2. Purchase other items (not just clothing) at second-hand stores.

Did you know that thrift stores sell more than just clothing? Everything can be cleaned up and sanitized, so consider purchasing dishes, decor, toys, etc. as well as clothing. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also saves you money.

3. Invest in more “timeless” pieces and fewer “trendy” pieces.

Trends come and go, so it’s a good idea to build a mostly universal closet. The foundation should be items that never go out of style. Then, you can swap a few trendy pieces in and out as the seasons change. This is far better than throwing away and buying a new closet every time there is a new trend.

4. Buy quality items that last a long time.

The faster something wears out, the faster you want to dump it. Instead of buying cheap clothing that won’t be fit for anyone in a month or two, invest in long-lasting clothing that you won’t need to throw out.

Who Are We, and How Can We Help?

Royal Waste possesses the knowledge, resources, and state-of-the-art equipment to get any size job done right. We are committed to reducing waste through our recycling and composting programs. Our breadth of dependable services, rapid response time, and commitment to problem-solving are unmatched. You’ll find our staff eager to provide the quality, reliable, and flexible waste management your business requires. Call us today.