Vintage Apparel - Healthy and Green

How is an article on used clothing a health-related topic? Well, there are several reasons. First off, for most of us, saving money helps to minimize stress─an obvious wellness booster─and buying "gently used" is typically far cheaper than buying new. It’s also good for the soul to know that we’re significantly helping the environment with our daily choices as well. And what a great example to set!

Each time you opt for vintage or gently used rather than new, mass-produced clothing, you’re helping the environment significantly. Did you know the textile industry is one of the most polluting on the planet? According to Adria Vasil, in her brilliant book Ecoholic, cotton soaks up 10% of the world’s pesticides and 25% of its insecticides, many of which are highly toxic. Would you believe that conventional cotton-farming methods require a full third pound of pesticides to make a single T-shirt?

Much of the clothing from past eras was created along more natural lines, unlike factory made apparel which uses synthetic dyes, chemicals, and other processes to ensure that the end products are wrinkle resistant, colorfast, and won’t shrink. Those chemicals, and the waste produced in the overall manufacturing process, are clearly unhealthy for the planet and you.

Choosing gently used or vintage clothing, on the other hand, is clearly the most environmentally friendly manner of dressing. It’s the perfect way to reduce, reuse, recycle and re-purpose clothing while saving a considerable amount of money to boot. An added bonus is that you’ll often acquire better quality apparel. If it’s lasted long enough to be a vintage item and still look elegant, that speaks volumes, no?

Another benefit for those interested in fashion is the wonderful, timeless style of classic garments from past eras. Why not freshly embrace them as your own, even if you missed the original period in time? It’s a tremendously creative endeavor as well. Whether it’s a cashmere cardigan set, a fun 60’s mod dress, an opulent pearl-beaded antique clutch, or a handmade lace shawl, these gems can really make a statement and imbue your personal style with original dash and flair.

So why not check out that local vintage clothing or consignment store you've always been curious about? Or even your local Goodwill, where you’ll often find designer threads and shoes mingled in with cheaper items, as well as gorgeous old broaches and other jewelry to wear or decorate with. And when you sally forth in that vintage sheath dress, pearl choker, or silk camisole, you’ll feel extra special because along with the compliments you will surely collect, the earth will quietly thank you too.