How to dress sustainably in 5 easy steps

You don’t have to spend a fortune in order to shop and dress sustainably. Here’s how to become socially and environmentally conscious when you’re choosing new clothes – without forgoing fashion.

1.Be informed

It needn’t be a pain to research how and where to shop sustainably. Understanding the issues that contribute to social and environmental sustainability mean you can put your money where your mouth is. Get all your info in one easy place, by checking out how much your favourite brands disclose about their policies, practices and impacts at The Fashion Revolution’s Fashion Transparency Index. In the 2020 report, H&M gained the highest score out of over 250 global fashion brands and retailers.

2. Buy smart

Investing in pieces that will see you through more than one season is a great way to build a sustainable wardrobe. Timeless tailored coats and classic every-occasion dresses are versatile and will bring longevity to your wardrobe. Add in some classic t-shirts, well-fitting jeans, chunky boots and a jacket, and you’ll have a sustainable base to your wardrobe that you rarely have to add to.

3. Prioritise durability

Buying clothes that are made to last can go a long way to reducing your fashion footprint. H&M’s Fall Fashion 2021 collection is all about showcasing their commitment to a more sustainable fashion future. The eight-piece collection includes reimagined lace, wool and jacquard that are made from recycled nylon, polyester and wool. These materials come from textile and plastic waste, including old clothes and plastic bottles. The collection incorporates modern, voluminous cuts, combined with vintage details such as ruffles and mutton sleeves. Beautiful and durable, it represents the future of fashion.

4. Consider value for money

Value for money doesn’t necessarily mean cheap. Consider cost per wear when you come to buying clothes; if it’s made from quality materials, will last between seasons, and you’ll wear it at least 30 times, then you’re off to a good start. H&M’s Fall Fashion 2021 collection is designed to last; with trans-seasonal items and a monochrome palette, it’s a long-term wardrobe mainstay. Buy well, and you won’t need to stuff your wardrobe with more and more items.

5. Care for your clothes

Look after your clothes well, and they’ll last longer. It’s a good idea to wash denim inside out, choose cool washes over hot, dry chunky knits flat so they don’t lose their shape, hand wash wool with a delicates detergent, and iron linen on the reverse side so it keeps its sheen. Fold jumpers in your wardrobe, but hang shirts, pants, dresses and anything made from linen to keep it looking pristine. Go the extra mile to look after what’s in your wardrobe, and you’ll get a lot more mileage from it.

Learn more about H&M’s Fall Fashion 2021, Made to Last collection