Why it's okay to Struggle with the Transition to being Sustainable/ Eco-Friendly

We are hearing more and more about sustainable fashion and being eco-friendly within the fashion industry. And coming from a fashion student, it's the future of fashion. Just let me tell you.

There have been more and more brands turning to eco-friendly and ethical practices and even more influencers promoting sustainable fashion. It has truly been amazing to see.

However, I have also noticed the way some people react when the see that people are shopping at fast fashion brands or maybe are making the most sustainable fashion choices. It's not very nice in my opinion.

Well, I'm here to tell you it's okay. It's okay to shop at fast fashion brands, its okay to not make the most eco-friendly choices when shopping. It's okay.

Now, I would like to explain what I mean when I say this. I am not condoning the fast fashion industry or any of it's practices. I am condoning the people who shop there when necessary.

If you maybe don't have a lot of money to spend on sustainable fashion it's okay. I know it's expensive and I know it's a big transition into the sustainable world. Sustainable fashion is extremely expensive and I understand the temptations of fast fashion stores like Forever 21 because they're so cheap and they're stuff is kinds cute honestly.

Now if you have the money to shop sustainably and are still choosing to shop at fast fashion stores, then you honestly need to sort out your priorities because the earth is more important than your fast fashion brand haul that you're going to post on TikTok for clout.

Now, after that little rant of mine I would like to offer some cheap alternatives to fast fashion for all my cheap folks out there (myself included):

1. Thrifting at local thrift shops- This is honestly such an amazing alternative to fast fashion stores because it's fun and honestly it's usually even a little cheaper.

2. Up-cycling clothes- This is great especially if you're a "thrifter" like myself. You can thrift pieces with a cool design or a fun fabric and take some scissors and thread to it to make a completely brand new, unique piece of clothing. This option is a little more time consuming, but it is super fun and super rewarding once you finish making a new piece.

3. Shopping at small fashion brands/ locally owned stores- This option is perfect if you struggle with thrifting because I now it can sometimes be challenging. There are so many small, sustainable fashion brands out there. Honestly you could scroll through TikTok for an hour and probably find at least 10. These are perfect because you are supporting a small business that isn't using child labor to make all their clothes and it's usually cheaper than sustainable brands like Reformation (trust me I wish I could afford their dresses too).

I know this was only a few ideas, but hopefully it is enough to get you started at the very least. I really hope that you enjoy this transition to sustainable fashion, because it can be really fun and super rewarding.

Please remember it's okay to not be perfect, as long as you're trying your best!