Consumers in the U.S. are keener than ever on embracing environmentally conscious fashion, reports Forbes, with even mass market apparel brands and retailers selling five times more sustainable items than they were two years previously. Despite the big demand, only 1% of new products introduced in the first half of 2019 were tagged sustainable, indicating one important fact: if you want to dress your kids sustainably, you will need to do more research and, possibly, take the leap to online shopping more often.
The good news is that over half of all fashion brands wish to make products with sustainable materials by the year 2025. In the meantime, what steps can you take to ensure your children’s clothing is eco-friendly and functional all at once?
Durability is Key
Kids are one of the most active, energetic groups in society, meaning that the clothing they wear needs to be up to considerable wear and tear if it is to last long enough to be passed from older siblings to younger ones. Some brands (Isbjörn of Sweden is one of them) use ultra durable materials such as fish trap and all clothing items have space for three names on labels (since the aim is for every item to be worn by at least three children).
Other materials used by this forward thinking brand include renewable bamboo and Mulesing-free merino wool. The brand is also happy to repair any items that are broken so kids can continue to use their favorite jacket, pants, or top for many years to come.
Clothes Made with Recycled Materials
Brands like Stella McCartney, Burt’s Bees Baby, and Le Petit Organic are known for their commitment to the environment. Thes brands use specific fabrics like organic cotton (which uses less water and is grown without harmful chemicals), sustainable viscose (which is natural and biodegradable), and recycled materials (including recycled polyester and nylon). It is amazing to think that items like carpet fibers, fish net, and old fabric can find a second and even a third life under the guiding hand of sustainable fashion designers.
Brands like Mango have done their share to boost environmental friendliness by creating entire lines (such as the Committed collection) from recycled wool and other recycled fabrics. When shopping, check out the sustainability policy of different brands online. Many have committed to using at least 50% sustainable materials in all their clothing within the next few years so commit to those who do so to the Planet.
Fashionable Accessories and Skincare Products
Really fashionable tots will ensure that their accessories, skincare products, and toys are on point as well so make sure that everything they own - down to the tiniest detail - is Planet friendly. Items your child might like include organic bags and backpacks, reusable pouches with fashionable imagery such as unicorns and cactuses, and eco-friendly bubble bath and shampoo. If you have babies or you want to give sustainable presents to new moms, cute items to consider include organic teething rings, toys made with 100% recyclable material, and reusable bamboo baby wipes.
DIY Fun for Kids
You can also get children used to the idea of recycling and upcycling by creating fun fashion items yourself. Pull out old shirts you can cut into crop tops, jeans you can remake into shorts, and old shoes that can be given new life with a little artistry. There are many ways you can breathe new life into items that you planned on throwing out.
These include using beads and ornaments you have at home, using creative cutting and tearing for shorts and pants, and painting items with non-toxic fabric paint or embellishing them with felt appliques. You can also create brand new items from old ones - for instance, why not turn an adult-sized Tshirt into a cute summer skirt for kids, a sweater into a dress, or a Tshirt into a tote bag?
It helps to hone the basics of sewing so you can get hemming, zippers, and elastic waistlines right. Having a sewing machine can also significantly increase the number of items you can make. You can use free online patterns to make everything from dresses to tops for your little ones but ensure they join in the fun so that recycling becomes a habit, not just a hobby.
It’s a fantastic time to embrace sustainability in children’s fashion, with the big demand for this type of clothing making manufacturers sit up and take notice. Many brands (like Stella McCartney) have been big on sustainability from the outset. These brands value durability, recycling, and functionality. Ultimately, clothing needs to be tough and comfortable if it is to achieve its ultimate aim: to clothe more than one (and hopefully several) children.
