New Year Resolutions for a Greener Wardrobe

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It’s the New Year and a time for many to make resolutions; could be to eat healthier, exercise more, wake up earlier or work harder this year. It’s also a good time to give our wardrobe a thought so as to make it conducive to the environment and simplify our day to day lives. I have personally owned a green wardrobe for the longest time and I feel that it is very satisfying. I am happy to share a few tips that could change your wardrobe and make life so much easier.
Downsize: It’s the first step to owning a green wardrobe. There is no point in hanging on to clothes that don’t fit you or accessories that you haven’t used for a long time or don’t think you will use again. De-clutter your wardrobe and get rid of what you don’t want or need anymore. You can donate it to charity or put it up for a jumble sale. Downsizing can save up a lot of space and storage and give you a clearer idea of what you really need.
Plan a capsule wardrobe: A capsule wardrobe is a collection of a few essential items of clothing that don’t go out of fashion, such as a pair of jeans, skirts, tee shirts, churidars or saree blouses that are interchangeable with other items so as to maximise the number of outfits that can be created. The aim is to have an outfit suitable for any occasion without owning excessive items of clothing. This is usually achieved by investing in key or ‘staple’ items in coordinating colours. Capsule wardrobes have been very popular in the west. There is no reason why we in India can’t incorporate the same. We have the added advantage of a climate that is almost uniform throughout the year. For example, a white fitted shirt can be combined with a pair of denim jeans for a casual look, combined with a necklace or a scarf and casual shoes. The same shirt can be paired with a pencil skirt and jacket with pumps for a formal look. The shirt can be worn under a sleeveless dress in cold weather or worn unbuttoned over a tank top on a hot summer day with a pair of shorts. The same can be done with other items of clothing. It is a fun exercise and gives you a sense of understanding of your own style. Choose one or two basic colours like black, white, brown or grey, that will go with all other items of clothing. Imagine what you would wear normally every day of the week and try out different combinations. Keep in mind your body type and complexion while selecting silhouettes and colours. It is always advisable to opt for classic shapes that never go out of style.
Quality over quantity: Invest in good quality fabrics and accessories. More money doesn’t always mean better quality. Make sure what you buy will last you for a long time. After all we do not want to add to the overflowing landfills. For example, I invest in good quality footwear. I do not own many shoes, but the few that I own are of good quality that have lasted me many years. They are also styles and colours that go with a number of my outfits. Also, while purchasing an item, find out if the manufacturer is offering a warranty on the item or if the item can be repaired or replaced in case of damage.
Up-cycle: Before discarding damaged items, see if it can be repaired and used. Items that have reached the end of their life cycle can be up-cycled and reused. Revamp older garments to give it a new look. Even the queen of England repeats her outfits after making a few alterations to them.
Borrow or swap: Instead of buying or making clothes for a special occasion that you feel you will only use once, consider borrowing an item from a friend or family member instead. You can even host a clothing swap with your friends and family wherein you can exchange pieces of clothing and accessories.
Buy from local businesses: Before you choose a foreign brand, consider options from local brands. Look for products that are made in India; or better still that are made in your own state or village.
Support artisanal work: As far as possible, buy handmade products. Encourage artisans by purchasing handloom and handcrafted items. Our country is a treasure trove of crafts. Take advantage of it.
Buy sustainable: Opt for clothing made from natural and organic fibres. Choose fabrics dyed in natural or non-toxic dyes. Avoid synthetics as they pollute the earth right from the manufacturing process to their disposal.
Ask questions: Lastly, contact your favourite brand and ask them questions such as their manufacturing processes, their carbon footprint, if they practice fair trade, how they contribute to society and what they are doing to preserve the environment. It feels much nicer to use a product from an ethical brand. Show that you care.
Wishing you a clean, green and stylish New Year 2019!


(Ninoshka Alvares-Delaney is a Fashion Designer and is available on instagram @ninoshkaindia )

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