Fast fashion might be convenient, but is it worth sacrificing quality, style, and the environment for clothes that last only a few wears? More men today are looking to escape the endless cycle of fleeting trends and disposable fashion, embracing slow fashion instead – a more thoughtful approach to how we dress, buy, and care for our clothes. If you too feel overwhelmed by the endless options that are on the market and would like to know more about how to dress better both for yourself and the environment, here are some simple ways to embrace fast fashion today.
Buy Less, But Buy Better
How often do we get stuck in a loop of buying items just because they’re on sale or trending? A key principle of slow fashion is to break free from the need to constantly update your wardrobe and aim not to accumulate more but to own fewer pieces that truly matter. By focusing on quality over quantity, you’ll notice a real difference in your wardrobe. For instance, an Aran knit sweater can last years, becoming your go-to piece that defines your style. Think about the price per wear as well: a traditional, authentic Aran sweater will cost you $100, but divide this price by the number of times you wear it and you’ll get less than $1 per wear. Buying less, but better is all about having items you’ll be proud to wear over and over, instead of throwing them away after a season.
Support Ethical Brands
Have you ever considered where your clothes come from? Who made them? What fabrics are they made of? The shift toward slow fashion also means paying attention to the ethics behind your purchases, not just the product itself. It’s not just about how the clothes look, but who’s responsible for making them and under what conditions. You can start by looking for brands that prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable materials. These companies aren’t always the biggest names in the fashion industry and you’ll definitely not find them in your local malls, but they’re making waves by offering high-quality products that don’t rely on the exploitation of labor. A quick search online will reveal several brands committed to ethical fashion, from denim to outerwear.
Repair and Care for Your Clothes
We’ve all been guilty of throwing away a shirt because of a small tear or tossing away shoes after they scuff, but a central aspect of slow fashion is caring for your clothes and repairing them when necessary. It might seem old-fashioned to mend a pair of trousers, but small actions like this help extend the life of your wardrobe. Look into simple repairs you can do yourself, like sewing on buttons, patching minor holes, or polishing shoes. Even if you’ve never sewn anything in your life, there are plenty of online tutorials, and if the needed repairs are a bit more serious, local tailors can definitely breathe new life into your clothes with professional mending. Additionally, regularly cleaning your clothes and storing them properly also helps preserve their longevity, and the less often you need to replace items, the more sustainable your wardrobe becomes. There is absolutely no need to get rid of a perfectly good garment that has a tiny sign of wear and tear, and overall the less often you replace your clothing items, the more sustainable your wardrobe will be.
Shop Second-Hand
Buying new is not always necessary, and one of the most effective ways to participate in slow fashion is by purchasing second-hand or vintage clothing. Thrift stores, charity shops, and online platforms offer a wide range of styles, many of which are unique and no longer found in mainstream stores. By buying used, you’re not only saving money, but you’re also preventing those items from ending up in a landfill. For men, there are plenty of opportunities to find high-quality and barely worn pieces that add character to your wardrobe and everyday outfits. From vintage leather jackets to retro suits, second-hand shopping can be a treasure trove of hidden gems. Plus, it is a more sustainable way to add some variety to your wardrobe without supporting the fast fashion industry.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you! How do you relate to fashion? Do you like a fast fashion or do you prefer slow fashion? How do you weigh on the balance? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!