Sustainable fashion is becoming increasingly popular and for good reason. As we become more aware of the impact that fashion has on the environment, many of us are looking for ways to make more sustainable choices when it comes to our clothing. One of the easiest ways to do this is by choosing sustainable fabrics. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of sustainable fabrics, some fabric choices, and current sustainable fashion styles.
Why Sustainable Fabrics Are Important
The production of textiles has a significant impact on the environment, including the use of water, energy, and chemicals. Traditional textiles are often made from nonrenewable resources such as petroleum, and the production of these textiles can lead to pollution, soil degradation, and deforestation. In contrast, sustainable fabrics like those that are MoodEarth approved are made from renewable resources, require less energy and water to produce, and often involve fewer harmful chemicals. Check out the Quick Guide to Sewing with Sustainable Fabrics for even more information.
Some Fabric Choices
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemical fertilizers, making it a more sustainable option than traditional cotton. It’s also biodegradable, meaning that it won’t contribute to the accumulation of waste in landfills. It is a versatile fabric and can be used for a variety of sewing projects, including dresses, tops, and skirts.
Hemp
Hemp is an incredibly versatile plant that can be used to make a wide range of textiles, including clothing, bedding, and accessories. It requires very little water and no pesticides or fertilizers to grow, making it a highly sustainable option. It is a great choice for sustainable fashion and can be used for bags, hats, and even shoes.
Recycled Polyester
Recycled polyester is made from recycled plastic bottles, which reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. It also requires less energy and water to produce than traditional polyester.
Linen
Linen is a natural fabric made from flax and is a sustainable choice due to its low environmental impact. It is versatile and can be used for dresses, shirts, and even home decor projects.
Tencel
Tencel is a sustainable fabric made from wood pulp that is produced using a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents. It is a great choice for jumpsuits, skirts, and blouses.
Bamboo Jersey
Bamboo jersey is a fast-growing plant that requires less water than cotton and can be grown without pesticides or fertilizers. It is a soft and breathable fabric that is perfect for dresses, lingerie, and even home decor projects.
Current Sustainable Fashion Styles
Upcycling
Upcycling is the process of transforming old or unwanted clothing into something new and unique. This can involve using fabric scraps to create a new garment or embellishing an old piece with embroidery or fashion trims.
Slow Fashion
Slow fashion is a movement that emphasizes quality over quantity. It involves investing in high-quality, timeless pieces that are made to last, rather than buying cheap, disposable clothing.
Zero-Waste Fashion
Zero-waste fashion is all about minimizing waste throughout the production process. This can involve using techniques such as pattern cutting and draping to create garments that use every last scrap of fabric. The Cadia Shirt and Pinafore Skirt – free sewing patterns are both zero-waste without compromising style.
In conclusion, sustainable fabrics are important for reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. By choosing fabrics that are made from renewable resources and require less energy and water to produce, we can make a positive impact on the planet. With sustainable fashion styles like upcycling, slow fashion, and zero-waste fashion becoming increasingly popular, it’s clear that the future of fashion is sustainable.
