How do you choose a jacket sustainably?
In this blog, I will explain how to choose a sustainable jacket in the spirit of conscious shopping.
Sustainable fashion is gaining more and more attention, and it's no coincidence. Consumers are increasingly recognizing that quality, eco-friendly clothing not only helps us look stylish, but also helps protect our ecosystem. If you're looking for a jacket that's not only stylish but also sustainable, it's time to think about the most important selection criteria.
Why is it important to choose a sustainable jacket?
A jacket is an essential piece of clothing for every woman , whether it's for work, formal events or even casual looks. However, a jacket made in a sustainable way not only serves style, but also protects the environment. The traditional clothing industry often uses environmentally harmful materials, such as synthetic fibers, which take a long time to decompose and require a lot of water and energy during their production.
Benefits of a sustainable jacket:
• Longer lifespan
• Use of environmentally friendly materials
• Ethical manufacturing processes
• Lower carbon footprint
• Durability and quality
1. Choose natural, eco-friendly materials
The first step in choosing a sustainable jacket is to look at the materials it is made from. The best sustainable jackets are made from natural and organic materials , which are less harmful to the environment than synthetic fibers.
What materials are you looking for?
• Organic wool: Compared to conventional wool, organic wool is more sustainable because the sheep are raised ethically and no chemicals are used to process the fibers.
• Linen: A natural, breathable fabric that is sustainably grown and uses little water. An ideal summer choice!
• Hemp: A very durable, natural material that grows quickly and requires little water to grow.
• Tencel: Made from sustainably sourced cellulose and can be processed using little water.
If you can, avoid polyester and other synthetic fibers, which require large amounts of energy and water to produce and can take up to 200 years to decompose.
2. Follow the manufacturing processes
Choosing a sustainable jacket doesn't just depend on the materials, but also on the sewing techniques used to make the garment. Make sure the jacket you choose is made through ethical manufacturing processes that respect workers' rights, pay fair wages, and don't use harmful chemicals during production.
What is worth paying attention to?
• Ethical manufacturing: Look for brands that communicate transparently where and how their clothes are made and adhere to ethical working conditions.
• Fair trade: Fair trade certification guarantees that workers receive a fair wage and work in safe conditions during the production process
3. Choose local or small-batch production
Large-scale manufacturing often has a high environmental impact and often exploits cheap labor in distant countries. Instead, choose products from local designers or small-batch domestic brands that produce their clothes on a smaller scale but with greater care and sustainability.
Advantages:
• Lower carbon footprint during transportation
• Better quality, handcrafted workmanship
• Supporting the local economy
4. Pay attention to quality and durability
Quality is an important consideration when choosing a sustainable jacket. A well-made jacket can last for years, even decades, so you can even save money in the long run.
Tips for choosing a durable jacket:
• Stitching and seams: Check the seams and seams of the jacket. If you see strong, beautiful stitching, that's a sign of quality.
• Lining material: When lining your jacket, look for natural materials, such as silk or cotton. These will increase the durability and comfort of the jacket.
• Durable style: Choose classic styles that are timeless and won't go out of style quickly.
5. Pay attention to the Cost Per Wear indicator
Shopping sustainably is not only about choosing eco-friendly materials, but also about managing your wardrobe wisely. The Cost Per Wear indicator helps you understand how much a piece of clothing is worth in the long run.
How is it calculated?
Divide the price by how many times you expect to wear it. If you choose a more expensive but durable jacket that you will wear for years, it will end up being much cheaper than a cheaper but quickly worn piece.
6. Choose a multifunctional jacket
One of the pillars of sustainability is functionality. Choose a jacket that is suitable for multiple occasions. A well-chosen piece can be worn to work, on weekend trips or even to more formal events.
Tips for a versatile jacket:
• Classic colors (black, navy, gray) that can be combined with almost any clothing item and always remain elegant.
• Replaceable buttons or removable elements that can renew its appearance.
• Layerability: Choose a jacket that you can wear over a sweater in cooler weather, but also looks good on its own in warmer weather.
7. Take care of your jacket so you can use it for even longer
Once you've invested in a sustainable jacket, it's important to take proper care of it. Taking care of your garments will extend their lifespan and require you to buy fewer items, which is a more sustainable decision.
Care tips:
• Avoid frequent cleaning: Keep your jacket clean, but don't take it to the dry cleaners too often, as chemical treatments can damage the material.
• Air cleaning: Air out the jacket after wearing it to avoid excessive washing.
• Proper storage: Hang the jacket to maintain its shape and store it in a clean, dry place.