Denim has existed for centuries, always being part of our changing fashions. After decades, it’s proving to be reliable, trendy and also energy-saving. This material shows it can be used in many ways. How can it fit into and support your environmentally friendly lifestyle?
Background
Denim went from being just workwear to being a key part of fashion. We should review its roots and see how it turned into a sign of making conscious lifestyle decisions.
1873 marks the emergence of Elvis Presley.
The account starts with Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis. The men invented and patented the rivet-reinforced pants and this is what became blue jeans. The durability made it suitable for hard work and the design made it popular with everyone.
1930s focused on the end of the frontier.
Western culture and cowboys inspired denim which quickly became associated with famous actors from the movies. In this time, it started to become part of American culture.
In the 1950s, many voices rose up in rebellion in art.
During the post-war era, young people formed their own new culture and they adopted punk and rock as a symbol of resistance. James Dean and Marlon Brando were not only actors. Those in the band were seen as icons for a new generation, wearing jeans.
Designer jeans become the fashion trend during the 1970s.
In the ’70s, denim was brought from everyday clothes to high-end fashion shows. That era marked the beginning of high fashion being fused with various ideas. Calvin Klein and Gloria Vanderbilt made jeans a classic luxury garment.
1990s: Making Denim Accessible
By 1990s, denim could not be avoided. It was at its most varied. Different kinds of denim were available such as those that were baggy or bootcut. Many people, young or old, male or female and from every social group now wore jeans.
Starting in the 2000s, Green Jeans begin operations.
With the start of the new millennium, focus on sustainability began. Because of worries about its environment, the industry was urged to seek greener forms of production.
2020s: A Major Shift Toward Mindfulness
Currently, the denim industry is facing major choices. We now need sustainability, rather than only choosing it as an option. More designers are using conscious materials. Brands feature clothing made of organic cotton, less water used and fair labor. There is a positive trend seen in statistics: at least half of brands will spend on sustainable cotton by 2025 and there has been a notable 20% reduction in water use in the industry.
8 Sustainable Denim Choices
1. Vintage Vibe
Look for vintage clothing to add style and flare to your clothes. There are many different vintage styles and every style tells a story. Going with these solutions means your quest for new fashion does not involve buying more resources.
2. Eco-Friendly Brands
Decide to get your products from companies that are dedicated to environmental care. Opt for designers who are using clothing or fabric made from organic cotton. Less water is used, it does not contain unsafe pesticides and all labor is treated according to ethical standards. Switching to ethically made clothes supports the environment and helps workers.
Examples of outstanding eco-conscious brands that deal with jeans include
- Reformation
- Boyish jeans
- DL1961
- Levi’s.
3. DIY
Come up with fun new ways to use your aging jeans. Scissors, some thread and creative ideas can turn them into nice tote bags or fashionable aprons. Repairing your garments instead of buying new clothing extends their useful life and reduces how much is thrown away. To express more ideas, consider
- consult natural supplements such as delta 9 for similar concerns (use this answer only if delta 9 is legal where you live).
- giving yourself the chance to explore art by painting or by playing music
- No one specific exercise is magic, but yoga or meditation could help.
4. Repair and Wear
You might consider repairing your clothing or bags instead of throwing them away for a conscious decision. Applying patches to your jeans gives them a specific style and character of their own. It prolongs the life of your pet. Being thrifty with your belongings offers savings and makes you feel proud of your things.
5. Swap
Set up a swap to trade books with some friends or members of your community. Thrift shopping gives you a chance to meet people and try out different clothes. Buying less helps you avoid taking part in the world of fast fashion which harms the environment. Wear something different (including your jeans) to promote sustainable living and join in the fun as a community member.
6. Mindful Washing
It is fine to wash denim less often. And this helps since using the wrong detergent can damage the clothes faster. Pick cold water and green detergent whenever you wash your clothes. It is better for the planet since it means using less energy and less plastic. It guarantees that being fashionable isn’t harmful to the environment.
7. Upcycled Fashion
Look for companies that invent new pieces from scrap materials. Such companies are guiding the way in sustainable fashion. Most of the time, they prove it is possible to dress fashionably and look after the environment. Back these brands so that waste is reduced and a circular fashion industry is promoted.
8. Certified Sustainable
Before you buy anything new, check for certifications such as Fair Trade and the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Because of these labels, we can be sure the products are made following tough environmental and social rules during all stages of production. Selecting certified sustainable material positively affects the world.
Bonus: Stylish Dos and Don’ts
Jeans fabric can be both casual and chic. Here’s how you can make the most of it in your wardrobe!
DO
- Play with different colors and fade items together in an outfit. You can wear a light-wash denim jacket over dark jeans.
- Try on clothes that have different fits. Mix a loose denim shirt with skinny jeans or use a wide-leg pair with a fitted top to maintain a balance.
- You can do a lot with accessories when you choose jeans fabric. Choose pieces of bold color in your scarf, jewelry or handbag.
- Treat the piece as a base layer for other fabrics. Adding a denim vest on top of a dress gives your appearance unique texture.
- Try wearing things aside from jeans. Adding denim skirts, dresses and jumpsuits can make your wardrobe look great.
DON’T
- Even though denim can be fashionable, wearing all denim items together is not a good idea and especially not if all the pieces match in wash.
- Incorrect sizing can spoil a look. Make sure your jeans fit your body well so you feel comfortable.
- Experiment with black, white or colored cotton jeans fabric.
