In my last post, I mentioned the number one most sustainable thing you can wear is something you already have. But sometimes, the things we have in our closet are not-so-fabulous. Here are some things you can do to give your old clothes a new life.
Sometimes, clothes are still cute, they’re just damaged. Common problems include ripped seams, tiny holes, and the ever troublesome worn-out inner thighs that seem to happen to ALL of my pants (thick thighs save lives!) Rather than tossing these items and contributing to textile waste, you can repair your items equipped with some basic sewing skills. If you don’t know how to sew, I would encourage you to learn. It’s a super useful skill that’s not too hard to pick up! If you don’t feel like learning, phone a friend who may be able to help you out with those repairs.
Sometimes things are so torn up that they’re past repair, or the item is simply not your style anymore. Upcycling and downcycling are great options! Upcycling is when you take an item and make it into something new that is of equal or greater value to you. Turning an old pair of jeans into a denim crop top is a great example. Something else I like to do with t-shirts that I never wear, especially free ones that aren’t so cute, is to turn them into reusable shopping bags. This is pretty simple. Just sew up the bottom and cut off the sleeves and neck and voila! Downcycling is upcycling’s less attractive younger cousin. It’s when you take an item and turn it into something less valuable, but still useful, like turning an old shirt into rags. Downcycling is still a great way to keep textiles out of landfills.
If you’re a college student and especially if you’re involved in Greek Life, you are all too familiar with themed parties. Sometimes items purchased to match these themes (thrifted or otherwise) seem like easy candidates for the garbage once the party is over. I try my best to take these items and incorporate them into my wardrobe so they aren’t just worn once then chucked. It can be a fun styling challenge for yourself to incorporate these outlandish pieces like say, a holographic skater skirt, into
new outfits. You may surprise yourself with what you come up with and find your new favorite outfit.
Giving items that are already in your closet a second chance is a great way to reduce your consumption and show your love for humans and the planet!
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