“Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.” – Anna Lappe

Did you know that the fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries on our planet? The industry creates up to 10% of humanity’s carbon emissions, dries up water sources, and pollutes rivers. And, the way we wash clothing is disastrous for our environment. Our clothes can release thousands of harmful micro-plastics into oceans. Luckily, the awareness for slow fashion in Spain is becoming more popular.

Sustainability begins with conscious consumerism. A conscious consumer is a shopper who wants to make more informed buying decisions. This shopper buys locally and ethically. Conscious consumers align sustainable values with their purchasing decisions.

If you are a local or visiting Spain, consider the amount of high-street shopping in cities like Barcelona or Madrid, and think twice before making a purchase. It is important to adopt a sustainable, slow fashion Spain lifestyle.

Here are five fashion ideas for practicing sustainability in Spain:

1. Quality Over Quantity

I am a big fan of investment pieces and believe that quality is more important than quantity. Look for timeless pieces that have a longer life span. Cheap basics are more likely to end up in the landfill after 6 months.  

Buying quality garments is one of the easiest ways to be more sustainable. 

Choosing to buy higher-quality fashion provides an economic incentive. Investment pieces tend to maintain resale value. So, if your clothing doesn’t work anymore, you can resell it and support the circular fashion economy.

Remember less is more! 

2. Know Your Unique Style

To be a conscious consumer, it’s vital to know your own style.

If you want to create a more conscious and sustainable wardrobe, you’ll need to end wasteful shopping habits.

When we don’t have our style defined, we buy from an unconscious place. This misstep wastes money and creates a negative impact on our planet. I have seen this happen with many clients.

When we know our own style and have a plan in place, we curate wardrobes that are authentic to us and better for the environment.

To pinpoint your unique style, ask yourself these questions:

• How do I want to feel? 
• How do I want to show up in the world?
• Who do I aspire to be? 
• Does my style reflect this? 

Get clear on 3 keywords that reflect the style you aspire to have. Living in Spain, you may have specific style words that reflect the location, climate, or lifestyle. Some keyword style examples include: minimal, elegant, fun, vibrant, refined, creative, classic, or elegant.

3. Know What You Have in Your Wardrobe

Did you know that we wear only 20% of 80% of our wardrobe? Generally, we tend to wear the same 20 to 25 items on repeat. There is nothing wrong with outfit repetition. But, we need to be more aware of what we own and what we actually wear. 

Most consumers shop for new items without knowing what they have in their wardrobe. They will return home to realize they have five black tops similar to the new ones purchased.

Does that resonate with you?

When you shop without a plan, you waste money and tend to buy things you don’t really need.

How to make your wardrobe in Spain work for you? Do a spring cleaning. Look at what items work and what items do not work. Remember to keep looks that align with your style keywords. Getting to know what works for your body and your Spanish lifestyle is key to curating a sustainable wardrobe. 

4. Choose Spanish Ethical Clothing Brands

I encourage you to think about who you are buying from. Ask yourself these questions before purchasing items: Who made these clothes? How were the workers treated? How did these clothes arrive at the store? 

You can research local Spanish ethical clothing brands that support your community and the environment. By choosing Spanish ethical clothing stores and brands, you support local designers and businesses. This means you are investing in artisans and higher-quality products. Whenever possible, shopping locally in Spain offers a conscious fashion approach.

One of our favorite local products to buy in Spain are shoes! If you’re interested in buying a nice pair of locally-made Spanish espadrilles, check out this article here.

5. Watch Out For Impulse Buying

I used to be such an impulse buyer. But, it wasn’t until I looked inwards that I realized impulse buying was only a way to fill a void. I was addicted to the short-term feel-good factor of buying something new. 

Did you know that 85% of textiles go to the landfill each year? Impulse buying can present hidden dangers.

Your emotions play a big part in your purchasing decisions. It’s important to understand yourself and your emotions. This can help to identify your shopping and buying behaviors.

The next time you want to buy something, ask yourself these questions:

• How do I feel right now?
• What emotions do I feel right now?
• Does this item align with my style and my wardrobe or am I purchasing it for the high? 

Try observing how you feel and what emotions are coming up. Remember to practice self-compassion. In the long run, impulse buying is soul-destroying and bad for your pocket. But, it is also detrimental to the planet.

Change Your Style Habits! Practice Environmental Sustainability in Spain

So, how can you practice environmental sustainability in Spain? Adopt the slow fashion Spain lifestyle! These style tips can help you to become a more conscious consumer.

It is up to individuals, brands, and businesses to make better choices to achieve environmental sustainability in Spain. In the future, I hope we continue to support a circular economy and produce and consume less in Spain and beyond.

xo,
Lou
@byloustokes