What is sustainable fashion?
Sustainable fashion: a guide to mindful consumption
Alongside fast fashion, the topic of sustainable fashion is becoming increasingly important. But what exactly is meant by sustainable fashion? And how can you make mindful decisions when buying clothes? In this article we explain what matters, what to look out for when shopping online and share practical tips for a more mindful wardrobe.
What is sustainable fashion?
‘Sustainable fashion’ is an umbrella term with no legal definition. It generally refers to approaches intended to reduce the fashion industry's impact on the environment and on people – for example through the choice of materials, better working conditions, transparent supply chains and long-lasting clothing. Because the term is so broad, it is worth looking for specific, verifiable information such as certifications.
What to look out for
- Materials: organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides; TENCEL™ Lyocell is made from wood cellulose; recycled fibres are made, for example, from PET bottles.
- Certifications: labels such as GOTS, OCS, GRS or RWS are independently verified and make information on materials and processing traceable.
- Durability: high-quality workmanship means garments can be worn for longer.
- Comfort: natural fibres such as organic cotton feel soft and pleasant on the skin.
Buying fashion online mindfully
When you buy fashion online, it pays to look at the product details: which material is used, which certification does the item carry and where was it made? At ORGANICATION you will find timeless fashion for women and men. Our items are certified to GOTS, OCS, GRS, RCS or RWS depending on the material – you will find the exact details on each product page.
Mindful fashion for women, men and children
Whether for women, men or children, there is now clothing made from certified materials for every target group. T-shirts, jeans, jackets and underwear are particularly popular.
Mindful fashion brands from Germany
There are a number of brands in Germany working on the topic of sustainable fashion. ORGANICATION is one of them: ORGANICATION Europe GmbH, based in Nürtingen, offers high-quality basics and knitwear made from materials such as organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, LENZING™ ECOVERO™ and RWS lambswool. Our clothing is made in Izmir, Turkey. Find out more about us on our About us page.
10 tips for mindful fashion consumption
- Quality over quantity: invest in high-quality, long-lasting pieces.
- Shop second-hand: vintage fashion extends the life of clothing and is one of a kind.
- Look for labels: check for certifications such as GOTS, Fair Wear Foundation or PETA-Approved Vegan.
- Check the materials: with organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell and recycled fabrics, look for a certification.
- Build a capsule wardrobe: a minimalist wardrobe saves time and money.
- Mend your clothes: rather than throwing them away, sew or upcycle them.
- Discover small labels: get to know local designers and independent brands.
- Wash less: washing too often shortens the life of clothing.
- Shop mindfully: plan your purchases and avoid impulse buys.
- Swap or donate clothes: share fashion with friends or pass it on to charities.
Mindful consumption in the clothing industry
Interest in transparency and quality in fashion has been growing for years. Through mindful consumption – buying less but more deliberately, and wearing clothes for longer – everyone can make a difference themselves.
Make your wardrobe more mindful: whether with second-hand finds or with timeless basics made from certified materials, for example at ORGANICATION.
