I took a long break to study Oprah's favorite things and figure out what I want to include in my second part of lifestyle advice. I learned that there aren't so many things I want to share with others but more ideas or art. There may be many parts to come since a second part won't cover it all. I have a lot to share about clothing...
Without further adieu, part deux!
Clothing
Yes, this is a thing. It even has 'thing' in the name. However I want to share more ideas about this thing, than recommendations for actual clothing things.
I read a very interesting article about the "slow fashion" movement. I think it was originally longer but it's been online so long they decided to shorten it (either that or I can't find the original article I read). The slow fashion movement recommends buying high quality, ethically made items, in organic fabrics. It stresses buying a few well made (often expensive) clothing items instead of tons of Forever 21/H&M/WalMart tees, jeans and sandals. I think it is very practical to follow the guidelines Cline puts forth in her book -and mentions in the NYT article - but I find that I cannot follow them all. Some ways I have adapted her ideas and the heart of the slow fashion movement are listed below:
1. Buy "organic" fabrics as often as possible. By organic I mean fabrics from nature - cotton, wool, silk, modal. It can be pretty tough searching for a 100% cotton sweater in Forever 21 (I've tried and it took me about 2 hours) but it can be done. Sometimes it is so difficult that I will settle for cotton/poly blends which I think is better than full synth. Right?? Someone tell me it's ok!
2. Try to buy "quality" items. Quality is a broad terms but I simply mean that an item should have straight hem lines, no loose thread, tiny holes or poorly selected fabric. Thin cotton, although a good organic fabric, can rip or wear out easily. Make sure that the clothing item suits the activities you will be using them for. Ultimately, the better made the item, the longer it will last and the more you are contributing to "slow" fashion.
Quality over quantity is another big theme in slow fashion so don't be tempted to buy things just because they're cheap, on sale or you use it a lot (for instance don't buy eight tanks because you wear them a lot. Settle on three that are good quality and wash your clothes more often. Secretly, I think it's ok to stock up on a lot of one thing you use a lot as long as you are following the guidelines listed here).
3. Repair damaged clothing. So often I will have a beloved cardigan or nice blouse (do we use that word anymore?) that gets a rip or hole in it. I don't want to get rid of it. I like it. Instead of throwing that item away or donating it, fix it! I have become rather handy with a needle and thread. By handy I do not mean skilled. The good news is most tears happen at the seam and sewing along a seam is not only easy, it's easy to hide any mistakes! Make sure you use the closest matching color of thread to the item you're mending. That also helps hide any flaws in your handiwork.
If you really can't repair things yourself, find a reasonably priced tailor or dry cleaner near you. This will still save you a lot of money in the long run.
4. Buy things secondhand. Find a really good thrift store or Goodwill to frequent. They will undoubtedly have some nice pieces of clothing. Some people suggest shopping in upscale neighborhoods because you will be more likely to find better clothing. I have to admit I have difficulty finding things I like at the Goodwill but then again I don't make a hobby of secondhand shopping. That is something I'm trying to change! I have friends and roommates however, who have great luck finding some quality pieces at the Goodwill in our neighborhood in Long Beach.
5. Never through away clothing that is "out of style". Chances are that item will come back in style. If it fits, it's in good condition and you like it - keep it! How many times have jean and leather jackets come in and out of style in the last decade? The answer: SO MANY TIIIIIIIIIMES!
In terms of brands or stores to shop at I am not terribly equipped to give good advice. I have been a broke college student for most of my recent history (I shop at the ever-evil Forever 21) and I also spend far too many days in lounge pants and baggy sweaters. I say shop where you want. Try to buy things made in America (which is a joke, I know). American Apparel is ok but I hear that their factories are pretty much like sweat shops in the U.S.. Cotton On has been a huge disappointment because many of their items are not cotton. WTF, right? Make sure you check the label there.
I hope this little guide helps some of you. Let me know how your new knowledge informs your shopping and wardrobe choices and by all means share your own tips in regards to "slow fashion" in the comments. Thanks for reading!
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