STEP 6
use & care
It is no doubt that fashion is one of the most wasteful industries and denim was always under attack for being one of the worst offenders. We know a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions are linked to the manufacturing of garments and unfortunately, garments are being worn 40% less than the previous generation. This leads us to the real problem - overproduction/overconsumption.
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We produce way more than we need, so much so that some of what is produced (estimated at 30%) is never actually worn, and goes straight to the landfill. Some brands will partner with different organizations to donate their unsold goods, but if an estimated 150 BILLION garments are produced a year, 30% (45 billion garments) is WAY too high a number, so we need to be buying less, choosing well, and making it last, while the industry continues to minimize waste and maximize resources.
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Read more on "Waste Solutions for the Denim Industry" written by Simply Suzette here!
PURCHASING QUESTIONS
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Before you buy, I challenge you to ask yourself the four questions:
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Do I really need this?
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What is it made out of and where was it made?
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Is there a repair service?
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What will I do when I am done with it? Upcycle, restyle, or resale?
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At Simply Suzette we we spend our time looking for solutions, which naturally led us to adding more questions and searching for more answers:
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Is it designed for durability? (see the End of Life section)
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Is this something that I can style in different ways and wear often?
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Have I looked for a vintage/second-hand alternative?
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Does it have a clear care label, including tips to wash it in a sustainable way?
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Am I prepared to keep loving this item even if it slightly changes in colour or feel?
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If it ever gets damaged in the future, could it look cool with repair stitches, patches, or embroidery? (we are thinking of our favourite upcycling brands)
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BE CURIOUS
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In a world where big companies can cover their actions with more publicity stunts, it is important to ask questions and dig deeper. Knowledge is power! The more you know about a company, the more you can make educated purchases.
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buy less, choose well, make it last
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DO SOMETHING
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We can change our mindsets and ask the questions, but doing something about it is the hardest part. Sustainability is a journey that looks very different for everyone. It can start with taking your old clothes to a donation center, or saving up to buy a good quality pair of jeans that will last you years instead of your $20.00 pair that barely lasted one season. For Ani, owner and founder of Simply Suzette, it started with buying her first pair of sustainable jeans and grew from there.
