Fashion is changing—fast and crazy. But not in the sense that you would be expecting. Today, circular fashion is poised to be a new leader, focusing on resale, rentals, and repair rather than fast fashion. Not only does this change look good, but it truly will change the game for sustainability and sustainable practice.
What Is Circular Fashion?
In circular fashion, clothes are being turned into a whole loop of reuse, recycle, and repurpose. It's challenging the whole "buy, wear, and then throw away" culture, which's all about longevity and a reduction in waste.
The amount of textile waste generated around the globe every year is overwhelming—over 92 million tons so far. But resale, rental, and repair are now leading the sustainable revolution.
Resale: From Thrift to Trendy
Second-hand shopping has taken the world by storm, especially after 2023, when platforms like ThredUp and Poshmark reported a massive surge in users. For Gen Z specifically, thrift fashion has not only become a money-saver but also a planet-saver.
Fun fact: According to the GlobalData report, resale is expected to double by 2027, growing 3x faster than traditional retail.
Brands like Levi’s are launching buy-back programs to resell pre-owned jeans. It’s not just eco-friendly; it’s also super chic to wear something vintage!
Rental: Wear It, Return It
Why wear a dress only once? For fashionistas, options like Rent the Runway and Flyrobe have become a go-to choice. Indian weddings in 2023 saw the boom of rental fashion for weddings and festive wear that also cut down on single-use outfits.
It saves money and eradicates the amount of clothes that are left at the local landfill. And who does not love trying out the latest styles without commitment?
Fix It, Don't Toss It
Now even repair is in revival. Now, starting from do-it-yourself patchwork kits to professional alteration services, people are starting to appreciate extending the life of a garment.
Patagonia rolled out the global "Worn Wear" campaign that was inspiring many brands to begin repair services. In India, other traditional tailoring shops are now getting renewed interest with consumers focusing on sustainability.
Pro Tip: Learn some basic sewing to save your favourite clothes and footprint your fashion!
Why Circular Fashion Matters
Fast fashion is responsible for releasing around 10% of the global carbon dioxide. Circular fashion will cut this drastically. We can reduce textile waste and lessen the pollution by reusing clothes and salvage water and energy, among other resources.
Governments have also seriously looked upon "circular fashion." The European Union introduced new regulations that are more binding to the brands regarding textile waste. Quite obvious now—circular fashion is no fad; it is the future.
Join the Movement
So the next time you go shopping, you must ask yourself these two questions: Do I really need this new piece, or could I be renting or thrift shopping for something instead? And thus making circular fashion look good for the planet.