How To Shop Sustainable Clothing On A Budget

While not all sustainable clothing has to be expensive, a good portion of the sustainable market is- and for good reason. Sustainable products are typically made from materials that are better for the planet- whether thats because its organic, recycled, or deadstock fabric. They’re made ethically too, also known as slow fashion, which includes paying workers in their supply chain a higher wage than the clothes from H&M or Zara. Of course we all want better things for the planet and ethical and fair wages for people putting it skilled work, but not everyone can afford that, so here’s our tips to shopping sustainable on a budget.

Out of Season

Some of my favorite pieces I was able to purchase simply because they were out of season at the time. Peony Swimwear, one of my favorite swimsuit companies in quality and style, puts their pieces on sale from 20-40% off, especially during the off season. Plus, since they’re an Australian brand, the beginning of the U.S season lands in their off season, which is where I scored the best deal last year.

Depop

Of course the pieces you buy from Depop probably won’t be made of sustainable fabrics, but keeping the garment circle closed is still key to a sustainable closet, so purchasing a piece to keep it from the garbage is a great move. I’ve scored so many great winter knits this way that I will have forever because the quality is outstanding, and I got them for half price than original, if not even less. One of my favorite Depop users Abigail Lane sources the best basics at a really fair price.

Shop in a Capsule Wardrobe

It’s the phrase of the year, but it’s the best way to really have a sustainable closet. Shopping in a capsule wardrobe style with a color scheme and coordinated outfits is a great way to save money while also putting that money towards pieces that will last. Instead of purchasing with trends or as you see a piece you like, put away a little bit of money each work towards your wardrobe, and at the beginning of each season use that money to fill gaps in your existing wardrobe. Is your summer wardrobe sorted except for a really good spaghetti strap dress? Take that $200 you’ve saved up and put it towards that dress in a style and color you’ll wear over and over again. This is how I started building a wardrobe full of pieces that will last me forever.

Secondhand Communities

One of my favorite ways to shop at a discount is through secondhand communities like this one centered around DOEN pieces. The pieces still aren’t cheap, but sometimes you can find something marked down almost 40%. There’s also a secondhand Christy Dawn account, and you can try places like Poshmark for designer secondhand goods.