Investing in sustainable fashion is a wise choice, and it’s all about quality over quantity. Instead of accumulating numerous short-term pieces, focus on acquiring garments that will stand the test of time and make you stand out in a crowd of mass-produced t-shirts. When it comes to finding sustainable items, Wolf and Badger is a fantastic marketplace. Housing over 2,000 independent brands from around the world, they provide an easy way to discover sustainably and ethically produced fashion, accessories, and more. Wolf and Badger’s commitment to fostering a global community of ethical brands and conscious consumers is truly commendable. You can rest assured that the pieces you find there are crafted with skill and craftsmanship while minimizing environmental impact. 

But – most of the pieces from here are quite the investment. With price ranges for clothing items often in triple dollar signs, the marketplace isn’t the place to add a million things to cart – it’s about carefully selecting and budgeting for the item you’ll truly love. So let’s talk about budgeting for sustainable fashion. If you love shopping and fashion, investing in sustainability is 1000% worth it and here are my five tips to make conscious choices without breaking the bank:

1. Start by saving: Allocate a portion of your income specifically for sustainable fashion purchases. Setting aside money each month will allow you to build a budget that aligns with your values and ensures you can invest in quality pieces when the time comes. I have a “fashion spending spreadsheet” where I bookmark links of items I want to purchase, build a bi-weekly savings cadence and mark my calendar for when I’d be able to shop. Definitely helps not dig yourself into a hole of credit card debt and still gives you that rush of excitement when purchasing a new high-quality unique piece of clothing.

2. Utilize spreadsheets or apps: as mentioned, spreadsheets are a lifesaver, I just use basic Google sheets with my blog email. But budgeting apps can also definitely help and give you visibility into your spending categories – Credit Karma or Mint are solid options.

3. Embrace thrifting: Thrift stores and online platforms like second-hand fashion marketplaces offer a treasure trove of unique, pre-loved items waiting to be discovered. Not only will you find hidden gems at a fraction of the original price, but you’ll also be giving these pieces a new lease on life. I also often see sellers listing brand new items with tags for over 50% off original price. Buyers could’ve changed their mind, dislike the fit or just forget to wear the item, while YOU get major savings.

4. Borrow and return: Several apps and platforms allow you to borrow clothing and accessories for special occasions. Instead of buying something new, consider borrowing an item and then returning it. This way, you can enjoy the perfect outfit without the long-term commitment. A new one I spotted in the App Store was By Rotation.

5. Embrace upcycling and repairing: Before discarding a worn-out item, explore options for upcycling or repairing it. Get creative and give new life to old pieces by adding embellishments or altering them to fit your current style. Repairing items, such as replacing buttons or fixing seams, can extend their lifespan significantly – and save money.