Fashion

When I first made my switch to being vegan, I didn’t really think about my consumer choices past food. The more I started to look at labels of food items, I started looking at labels and origins of all the items I was using. For the first time, I was aware that the clothing I got from big box stores, was probably made from people who are not being compensated accordingly or work conditions were not okay. To be a true vegan, is to be compassionate towards all humans, animals, and the environment. I realized that I needed to start looking at everything I use in my daily life, and make sure the source is vegan, ethically sourced, sustainable, and local (if possible). I also love shopping at second hand/OP Shops whenever I can. Not only am I saving money with items sometimes never worn, but me buying second hand helps with saving on new product being needed. You would be surprised how often you can find nice clothing or items with the price tags still on them for next to nothing. There will be times you will pay more for buying from a small company that falls under all my above shopping guidelines. It’s worth it for me to know I am getting a product I can stand by, and I am helping support a company working hard to make a difference. The fashion industry is a $2.5 trillion business that is one of the biggest polluters and the second-biggest consumer of water. Another issue is that most of the fabrics in cheap garments are synthetics and polyesters, which are derived from oil and petroleum production. Unlike wool or cotton, synthetic particles don’t biodegrade. When clothes are dumped into a landfill, toxic synthetic fibers pollute water sources. The other problem with the industry is the mistreatment and abuse of many factory workers, is an everyday issue that is continued by the demand of the consumers. We vote with our dollars every day, and we should all be using our money to go towards companies that treat their employees well. This just scratches the surface of the many issues within the industry, I recommend doing some research on it, I was shocked when I did. Right now, I only have reviews for shoes since I haven’t purchased any clothes recently, but I will update when I do.

 You would be surprised at how many companies have a give back program for everything you buy too. Because of things I’ve bought in the last year, six trees have been planted in various places. How cool is that? It’s great to know that my consumer choices can have a positive effect on the planet in some way. I also love the personal touch you get from buying from small companies. They always send handwritten notes and usually toss in some extra goodies as a thank you.

 One company that planted two trees because of my purchases and that I love, is Vamvas shoes. Think Vans but made with high quality natural materials, by a company that works hard to minimize their carbon footprint. They even go as far as to send your shoes in a small, 100% recyclable cardboard box. I loved all the color choices so much that I ended up buying a grey/yellow pair, and a beige/peach pair and the company threw in FIVE extra pairs of various colored laces. Now I can mix and match the two pairs with so many outfits, down to the laces and it’s great. They are so comfortable too, which you don’t always get with canvas style shoes. I can wear these all day and my only concern is making sure they don’t dirty.

 My other favorite shoe right now, are the Circadian sandals by Earth Runners. Minimalistic grounding, or “earthing” shoes, made to feel like you are walking barefoot with an all-weather traction bottom. There is a lot of research behind how we connect to the Earth when we walk barefoot, or wear Earthing shoes to help us sync up with the Earth’s circadian rhythm. There are lots of information online if you are interested in learning more on Earthing shoes. These do take a little getting used to, and getting the straps right makes a huge difference on comfort. It took me a couple of tries, but now I have the straps perfect and they just slip on. You wouldn’t think you could, but I have no problems running, hiking, or doing anything active in these shoes. They are sturdy, yet minimal and easy to take anywhere but they do take a little time to get used to. The common shoe has thick soles and lots of padding on the inside, blocking the Earth’s energy, which can disrupt ours. These shoes help with getting your body back in sync with the Earth, and I like them a lot.

That’s all I have for now, but I wanted to get the topic of the waste the fashion industry causes to the planet daily. The more we talk about these kinds of things, the more likely to make educated choices the next time. What eco-friendly brands do you like? What are some of your favorite clothing or shoe items that you feel good about where they came from? Comment below so we can find out what other cool shops or brands others can try them out.

Thanks for reading,

Jessica