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Aja Barber discusses creating the ideal sustainable wardrobe in Threads of Change.

The reason behind Aja Barber's decision to reconsider her shopping habits was the climate problem. However, she started dressing better when she stopped purchasing new clothes, which was an unexpected development. "My style has improved," declares the American-born novelist, activist, and stylist who resides in London. "It's the best wardrobe I've ever had." I also buy a lot less clothes now, reported ELLE. 

Barber remembers a period of time when she was "definitely participatory" in the system centered around consumption. She used to shop at the high street without giving her apparel purchases much thought, about fifteen years ago. But when she became more aware of how her purchases affected the environment and the people who created her clothing, she modified her strategy and essentially stopped buying new items. She claims that her current style is more deliberate. Also, the clothing she purchases is more exquisite. She is also patient; she frequently has to wait months to locate what she's seeking for on the secondary market. When she does purchase from a brand, it is usually an ethical one (such as those listed on this page).

The barber claims that clothing is too easily accessible. With Instagram and online shopping, anything is accessible with a single click. "There are opportunities for shopping everywhere you look." She claims there has been a significant change since she was a child. "I found that realization horrifying." Today, the great bulk of Barber's wardrobe consists of pre-owned items from her favorite designers, which she finds on Vestiaire Collective or eBay; she is constantly searching for anything from Junya Watanabe, Comme des Garçons, and Dries Van Noten.

Giving yourself restrictions on your consumption and purchasing behaviors truly pushes you to be a little more creative and unconventional in your thinking. And it may lead to a truly intriguing change in your own style, she adds. What tips does a barber have for people who wish to shop more carefully? "Decide to intentionally stop purchasing clothing." Give your apps a rest. Give your brain a break, she advises.

mentioning that a smart place to start is by unsubscribing from mailing lists owned by apparel brands. Everything moves in this place so swiftly that it resembles a hamster wheel of consumerism. We must pause in order to reframe our perspective on these structures.

 

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