“Before getting into fashion and starting my formal training in the same I remember I used to donate some of my clothes and others I used to throw away as I was not aware enough about sustainability and garment longevity.
As a single child to my parents, I enjoyed the freedom of buying anything I wanted. But since I started my research and got a brief understanding of the results of our actions I became aware of reusing, upcycling and donating clothes. I also understood the importance of wash- care labels, following the wash- care instructions for my garments. After religiously following those instructions and being conscious I noticed that my garments loved me back by staying as is for longer time. I could keep my favourite pieces with me for as long as I wanted! So I hope to share some helpful tips with you to achieve the same.”
1. Maintaining the colour/fit of a garment
We can anticipate the lifespan of our garments by the way we wash and iron them. Over-washing can easily damage any print/embroidery on the garment, white coloured garments can be damaged due to staining and worsen by using wrong methods to remove stains, garments can stretch to a different size if they are not ironed/hung in the right way. All these problems can occur due to wrong washing and ironing techniques. If a similar issue is been faced then remember to:
- Wash your outerwear, jeans after been worn few times. Take care of those black jeans, don’t let them turn grey!
- Turn printed tees inside out before washing, this will retain the print and hence the style of printed tees.
- Wash a white coloured garment separately, or choose to hand wash instead of machine washing. Protect those white tees from any other colour.
- Iron shirts carefully, open up all the buttons and iron shirts in sections. This technique will take care of those sharp cuffs and button-down collars.
2. Evolving our mindset
It is easy to throw away garments when we see signs of wear tear, but mending them can save money and the garment too. Evolving a “preserving” mindset instead of “use and throw” habit can help you and our planet. If there are some minor issues with a piece of clothing then get it repaired in time, this can help maintain your favourite garments without any fuss.
If a garment doesn’t fit well alteration is the way to go. Alterations can restore the fit of the garment. Remember, there are several ways to mend a piece of clothing.
“Upcycle fashion” category has grown so much and you too can upcycle and restyle your favourite piece of clothing. Consider it as a boon to your wardrobe. Several YouTube channels promote the same and you can pick some ideas from it too. We share some of our upcycle ideas on our Instagram too so you can take some inspiration!
Remember to Repair> Alter> Restore!
3.Think before buying
Because of different trends or following celebrities it is easy to fall prey to the “wear it once” culture which can be one of the keys for investing in low-quality clothing. So choose wisely and buy. Pro-tip: natural fibres are more durable than any other fibers. Choose timeless designs/style that can last for seasons. Both of these factors can impact a garment’s longevity. When a piece is made thoughtfully it will not pill, or bleed colour.
Investing in garments can ensure durability!
“Try to figure out which piece of clothing in your wardrobe is used the most, re-think the way you handle that piece of clothing. Implement necessary steps that it needs. Sometimes re-reading the wash care label can help you save your favourite piece. Give your existing wardrobe some attention, if garments needs some mending do it in time, the age-old saying- Stitch in time saves nine always helps.”
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