Inspired by the recent TEDx event in York, I have been reflecting on the theme of compassion. Can we apply compassion to our dressing choices? Yes I believe we can and how applying it into our daily routine has the power to change lives.
Often speaking about the impact of the sustainable fashion culture, compassionate consideration can help us become more mindful of the choices we make. Let me expand upon this topic of compassion and relate it to our daily dressing routine. First up..
ETHICAL FASHION
Ethical fashion has many strands and we can support it in differing ways. Some of us focus on environmental conservation choosing to buy recycled fabrics while others put their efforts into the human element and only purchase fair-trade garments. For others, Vegan products that focus on animal welfare will be key. I believe that expressing ethical preferences is one such way of applying compassion to our dressing choices. There is something here for everyone to love.
When we buy a pre-loved garment we are embracing and demonstrating greater environmentally responsible behaviour.
All that said, dressing in a more mindful way actually makes us feel good, a feeling that we are using moral emotion to make a difference. There is a feel-good factor in behaving in a more sustainable way, whatever the element. Kinder on the environment certainly, for those employed in the garment industry but also for our purses.
RESPECTING OUR CLOTHES
If we buy better quality clothing, it is far more likely that they will last longer and we are more likely to care for them. Hanging clothes after each wearing to air and storing them well, will elongate their life.
Be mindful of our washing habits. Apart from underwear and socks, there is no need to wash everything after one wearing. According to Sustain your Style, each time we wash a synthetic garment (polyester or nylon for example) around 700,000 individual plastic microfibres are released into the water which may find their way to our oceans.
Consider also your choice of detergent (I am a convert to planet friendly washing products and love using brands such as Smol). Washing temperatures can also make a difference - cooler can be kinder.
CHANGE OUR ATTITUDE TO SHOPPING
Compassion for the environment influences our choices whether it be for our food or our clothing. I liken sustainability in clothing to organic food and using local producers. It was initially harder to source and obtain but now is more readily available.
It is possible to change the culture of consumerism by choosing more sensibly and buying less. Buying only what we need to replace, renting clothing, clothes swaps with friends or indeed buying pre-loved.
Employing a more mindful approach allows us to add emotion to the our selection. Ask if you need it? Who has made my clothes? Do I have three other items that I can pair it with?
CONCERN FOR OTHERS
Being more socially responsible with the concern for the well-being of others in mind is another way of demonstrating compassion. I’m sure most of us would be horrified if we witnessed some of the working conditions of some overseas textile and garment workers.
Are you familiar with This is Unfolded? A British brand manufacturing only what is required, pay higher wages to their overseas partner factories with a percentage of every sale supporting children in overseas education. Choosing to support brands like this, highlights our concern for others and can only be a force for good.
Let's also not forget...
SELF COMPASSION
Remember the last time we wore an outfit that made us feel good? Maybe it attracted a compliment that served to boost our self-esteem?
We know that our clothes play a significant role in improving the way we value ourselves. Our clothes are a form of self-expression and have the power to amplify our personalities. Consider that our wardrobes hold the key to positive self image which in turn can lead to many other positives. We are more likely to pursue our goals, forge meaningful relationships and can place us in a stronger position to deal with life's challenges.
Identifying clothing in which we feel good, is a powerful boost to our self-esteem and helps us to look more kindly upon ourselves. I'd love to guide you in this way, see more here.
Can we apply compassion to our dressing choices? Absolutely yes, our dressing choices are a visual representation of ourselves helping to empower us to personal growth.
CHOOSE NEW GARMENTS SELECTIVELY
In selecting a more ethical brand, we are demonstrating our willingness to pay more for our garments. Researching such brands also negates our desire to buy on impulse.
In doing so, we also demonstrate conscious compassion for the effort taken in the manufacturing process by it's employees. A concern for others right there?
It is also true that investing in certain items (footwear and outerwear for example) pay dividends in the long run. Identifying the styles that work for us, that pair effortlessly with other items in our wardrobe, support us time and again.
Dressing in a more sustainable way isn’t simply a trend, it is a smarter responsibility that supports the people working to create our garments, upon our wallets and ultimately the impact upon our planet.
Let’s apply our moral compass to research some brands that operate within green credentials and look out for organic or eco-friendly certifications. We can also look towards fabrics such as linens, silk or synthetically derived fabrics from plant materials such as Viscose, Lyocell, Tercel or Rayon. All of which biodegrade.
When we consider how we apply compassion to our dressing choices, I see evidence aplenty. Be it the way we view ourselves, plant-based washing detergent above harsh chemicals, re-purposing or re-wearing the clothes we already own, shopping pre-loved or supporting brands with more ethical credentials.
Compassion is surely linked to a greater interest in sustainable practices. I invite you to consider how you can apply compassion to your dressing choices.
Of course, I’d love to hear your views so do leave a comment.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jackie Crawford is a transformational image consultant dedicated to helping women in business dress with confidence. Ultimately enhancing their personal brand.
Born out of her own dressing frustrations during a corporate career, Jackie uses her own experiences to skilfully guide her clients through a process of positive change with their appearance. The benefits can lead to life-changing situations.
To have a chat about how you could work with Jackie, you may reach her on 07494 644788 or email image@jackiecrawford.co.uk or visit her website at www.jackiecrawford.co.uk