From Overwhelmed to Empowered: A Beginner’s Cheatsheet to Building an Eco-Conscious Wardrobe

Calling all eco-conscious trendsetters. Ready to embark on a makeover that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your wardrobe (and wallet)? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the world of sustainable style – and trust us, it’s way more doable than you might think.

Let’s face it: the idea of conscious consumerism can seem a bit daunting. With a plethora of eco-friendly options, certifications, and sustainability practices to consider, many fashion enthusiasts find themselves overwhelmed, unsure where to begin their journey towards a more ethical wardrobe. But fear not! This cheat sheet is your VIP pass to serving up looks that are as mindful as they are chic. 

 

Ready to embark on your sustainable fashion adventure? Let's start with something simple you can do right at home: decluttering your wardrobe. 

One of the easiest ways to dip your toes into eco-friendly fashion is by participating in clothing recycling efforts. Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of a cleaner closet, but you'll also be contributing to textile recycling – it's a win-win.

At 313@somerset, we have an ongoing partnership with circular fashion enterprise Cloop, offering a convenient recycling bin right here in the mall.

Clothing and textiles dropped off at these recycling bins are curated by condition, restored if possible, and re-circulated in different ways, ensuring they make a positive impact instead of ending up in our landfills!

The recycled items are donated to beneficiaries for reuse to communities in need or upcycling efforts, while others suitable are resold with funds raised going towards charities like the Breast Cancer Foundation, Books Beyond Borders, Make-A-Wish Singapore and many more.

Want to be part of this cycle and make a positive impact? Simply bring your gently used clothes and drop them off at the yellow bin at L1 (opposite Privé)– it's that easy. 

 

Image credit: Fjällräven

But wait, there’s more. Fjällräven, the Swedish outdoor brand known for its iconic Kanken backpacks, is taking sustainability to the next level. The company is not just using recycled materials in its products; it occasionally collects old bags for recycling – keep an eye out for these collection runs and give your old bags a new lease of life! Currently, it has launched a series of events designed to inspire shoppers to be at one with nature. Visit the store to explore Fjällräven's initiatives and find your own path to a greener future.

Declutter with the Reverse Hanger Trick: Hang all your clothing in the same direction (all the clothes’ fronts facing the same way, with the hanger hooks facing the same direction) – call this “direction A”. After wearing an item and laundering it, hang it up facing the opposite way (“direction B”) – and do that every time you wear the same piece. After a month, easily spot your least-worn pieces which are hanging up in direction A – perfect candidates for our Cloop recycling bin at L1 (opposite Privé).

 

Image credit: Actually

Speaking of bags, let’s tackle the eternal question: "Paper or plastic?" How about neither? Reusable bags are the way to go, and they don’t have to be boring! Check out the stylish options from Baggu or Susan Bijl at Actually. These eco-friendly choices prove that sustainability can be seriously fashion-forward. From bold prints to sleek designs, you’ll find a bag that not only carries your stuff but also makes a statement about your commitment to the planet.

The best part? These bags are incredibly light and foldable, easily fitting into your everyday bag. When you're out shopping, simply unfold and use them – no need to incur additional charges on plastic or paper bags.

 

Image credit: MUJI

Want more? MUJI has perfected the art of eco-chic simplicity. The beauty of the designs lies in their versatility – from tote bags that can handle your weekly grocery haul to compact folding bags that tuck neatly into your pocket. Made from durable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, these bags prove that sustainable style can be effortlessly tasteful. 

 

In the fashion world, single-use plastic is so last season. Invest in a statement-making reusable bag today – a small change that makes a big impact.

 

At its core, circular fashion aims to keep clothing, shoes, and accessories in use for as long as possible, minimising waste and maximising resources. By choosing brands that help close the loop with every thread of their business, we become active participants in a more sustainable fashion ecosystem. 

Love, Bonito, for example, has embraced fashion circularity, ensuring sustainable efforts at every stage of the production and retail process. The brand is guided by a strict code of ethics – no materials sourced from animal origins, and the use of suppliers who comply with industry standard audits, with zero tolerance for forced and child labour, and maximum working hours with minimum living wages to ensure the welfare of all workers involved in the production of the brand’s clothes.

The brand’s apparel is thoughtfully designed for long-term wear, making each a high mileage piece. And the cherry on top? Love, Bonito works with local enterprises and non-governmental organisations to upcycle imperfect pieces and donate aged inventory – a thoughtful way to close the loop and give back to society.

But their eco-conscious efforts don't stop at clothing. 

Every paper bag you tote out of their store is FSC-mix certified, ensuring responsible forest management. It's a holistic approach that touches everything from product to packaging, proving that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. 

Ready to transform your wardrobe? Start with these tips from Cloop co-founder Jasmine Tuan and join the sustainable fashion movement today:

1. Shop your closet first! Rediscover and reimagine your existing pieces. As Jasmine says, “Your wardrobe is a fashion collection you’ve handpicked for you. Have fun with it!”

2. Get creative with styling. Find new ways to wear your clothes, such as wearing a top back to front, she adds.

3. Declutter and organise. “Remove what you have outgrown or have not worn for more than six months — say 'thank you' and 'good bye' for good,” advises Jasmine. Make room for items that add value to your current lifestyle. Not sure how to sort them? Scroll back up for our Reverse Hanger tip above. 

4.  Give pre-loved items new life. Sell, bless, or swap clothes you no longer wear. You may follow Cloop for more information and updates on their next popup. 

5.  Go natural. Gradually switch to natural materials like linen and organic cotton. What’s good for you, is good for the planet too!

 

Let’s be real: it can be tough giving up the urge to stay on top of trends. The good news is, you don’t have to! The key is finding a balance between trendy pieces and sustainable choices. This is where 313@somerset shines. With our mix of fashion offerings, you can satisfy your craving for the latest styles while still making environmentally friendly choices.

 

Image credit: Denim D'Artisan

For example, you might pair a trendy top from a high street boutique with sustainable denim by Nudie Jeans — available from Denim D’Artisan. What’s more, Nudie promises the free repair of its jeans to maximise the lifespan of your fave togs, forever. 

 

Image credit: By Invite Only

Or accessorise your outfit with eco-friendly jewellery from By Invite Only, which features recycled 925 silver, extracted from used metal products to form new keepsakes. It’s all about making small, conscious choices that add up to a big impact.

 

Image credit: Skechers; Triumph

Don’t forget about sustainable options in other forms of wear: Skechers’ Our Planet Matters range is a line of shoes made from recycled materials. You can also stay cool and lifted with Triumph’s innovative Tri-Air Lite push-up bra. Experience weightless comfort and a natural boost, thanks to recycled Fiberfil cups that trap air for the lightest push-up support ever.

 

Image credit: Pearly Lustre

When it comes to adding a touch of elegance to your sustainable wardrobe, Pearly Lustre’s pearls shine in more ways than one. The brand takes a zero waste approach to its pearl cultivation process: Once harvested, the shells find new life as artistic materials or even in eco-friendly construction.

 

Remember, building an eco-conscious wardrobe starts with small, intentional choices. By consistently making mindful decisions about your fashion purchases, you'll gradually cultivate a sustainable mindset that becomes second nature. 

So, are you ready to embark on this stylish, sustainable adventure? With these tips and the fantastic options available at 313@somerset, you’re well on your way to building a wardrobe that’s as conscious as it is chic. Happy (sustainable) shopping!

Want to share your sustainable style tips or learn more? Join the conversation on our social media channels – we'd love to hear from you!

All information is accurate as of October 2024, and stay tuned as we introduce new efforts and initiatives all the time!