How to Shop Fashionably and Support Good Causes
While fashion was once merely a way of expressing oneself, it has since evolved to become a tool of change. We’re becoming increasingly aware of social and environmental issues, which is why more and more people are striving to shop stylishly while supporting good causes. Fortunately, there are a number of brands out there that are committed to ethical practices, sustainability, and philanthropy. Whether they donate a portion of their proceeds to a Sudan appeal or their staff get involved in volunteer programs, there are many ways in which brands can support important causes. So, discover more about making a fashionable impact and supporting meaningful causes with your shopping habits.
Choose Brands with a Cause
There are a number of brands out there that have formed their identities around social and environmental responsibility. Typically speaking, these companies donate a portion of their profits to charitable organizations, engage in fair trade practices, and prioritize sustainable production methods. As you shop, you should look for brands that are transparent about their initiatives. The most noteworthy examples include the following:
- TOMS Shoes
- Patagonia
- Warby Parker
Shop Second-Hand and Vintage
When you shop second-hand, you can reduce waste and support charitable organizations in tandem. This is because a lot of thrift stores and vintage shops are operated by charities, which means that your purchases directly support their missions. Similarly, shopping sustainably reduces the demand for new production, and this boasts significant environmental benefits. Some of the most popular options include the following:
- Goodwill
- The Salvation Army
- Online marketplaces
Support Local Artisans and Fair Trade Products
Another great way of shopping ethically is to support local artisans and fair trade products. This is because fair trade was established to ensure that producers in developing countries receive fair wages and work in safe conditions. Similarly, a number of fair trade items are crafted using sustainable methods and materials, and purchasing these products allows you to promote economic development and ethical labor practices. When shopping for fair trade goods, you should look out for labels like Fair Trade Certified, World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), or Fairtrade International.
Participate in Charity Fashion Events
There are many charity events and shows that are organized to raise funds for a number of causes. Typically speaking, these events feature clothing lines that are specifically designed for the occasion, with the proceeds going to charity. When you attend or participate in these events, you can enjoy the latest fashion trends and also contribute to important causes. If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, you should look out for charity fashion shows, auctions, and pop-up shops in your area.
Upcycle and DIY
In order to reduce waste and give new life to old garments, you might upcycle and do DIY fashion projects. This approach enables you to reduce your environmental footprint, all while creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. If you’re in need of inspiration, you can look for tutorials online to transform old clothes into something fresh and stylish. With upcycling, you bring yourself closer and closer to an existence that thrives on sustainability and slow fashion.
Be Informed and Mindful
It’s essential to be an informed consumer when it comes to supporting good causes through fashion. This requires you to research brands and their practices before committing to purchases. The Good On You app is just one of the available resources out there that rates brands based on their ethical and environmental impact. With mindful choices like these, it becomes much easier to ensure that your fashion purchases align with your values. Mindfulness is key.
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