FABRIC CHOICES

I am sorry, but this is going to make buying clothes a little complicated. In short, you should really only be buying clothing made from wool, hemp, organic cotton or linen.

Standard cotton, although technically a natural fibre, is hugely unsustainable because growing it requires large amounts of water and a cocktail of chemicals, which can often leave soil unusable after it has been intensively grown for a period of time. Plus, there are many awful reports of serious health problems in cotton workers. Unbleached, organic cotton is a far better option. It uses 62% less energy and 88% less water, keeps soil healthier and doesn't use harmful chemicals. Yes, it’s more expensive, but if we consumers commit to always buying less but better - and valuing what we have - this environmental pressure would be lessened.

Fabrics made from microfibres (Polyester, acrylic) are contributing to the build up of microfibres in our water. Not only is it harming fish in the sea, but it has recently been found in human faeces, meaning we are most likely drinking it. Gulp.

As with most consumerism problems, the answer is most certainly choose wisely, buy less, treasure more - and be prepared to pay a little extra for the privilege.

There is also a crazy amount of really decent second hand and vintage fashion to be found if you have a little forage in your local area or online. Vinted, eBay, Depop, Beyond Retro, Oxfam, Rebelle and Rokit are just some of our favourites.

FUTHER INFORMATION
The BBC made a brilliant programme about the environmental problems of fast fashion. You can find out more about it here.

Here is an in-depth look at cotton production if you want further info.

BBC Earth report on six fabrics that could help the planet.

This Mind Body Green article explains each fabric to help you make informed choices.