Fashion choices that are planet-friendly
NATURE provides us with some of the finest fibres, such as cashmere, merino and lambswool. And there is no substitute for natural fabrics that are durable, hypoallergenic, heat-regulating and naturally biodegradable. They can be far more comfortable to wear — and are better for the planet, too. Synthetic clothing, such as nylon and polyester, are disastrous for the environment. Did you know that when you launder synthetic fibres, tiny microplastics of 5mm or less come free and make their way into our oceans, and then work along the food chain? As plastic can be found in fish, meat, honey and wheat, we are literally eating it. So it’s worth checking clothing labels to assess what impact your fashion choices might be having. The Slow Fashion movement is based on the idea of designing, making and buying garments for quality and longevity, while encouraging slower production schedules, fair wages, lower carbon footprints, and (ideally) zero waste. One British lifestyle brand, founded in 1989, has always been passionate about slow fashion that is natural and sustainable. And 32 years later, its ethos is still to tread lightly on the planet. It continues to craft natural clothing, adding the comfiest of cottons and lightweight linens to its ever-growing collection, which also includes homeware and garden accessories. The latest collection is out now. It focuses on sustainable, colourful, slow fashion, enabling customers to look great in the knowledge they are being planet-friendly. Saying yes to mood-lifting sustainable fashion, while saying no to plastic pollution, are two small acts that can make a big difference to our lives.