Rational consumption: how to shop without harming the wallet and the planet

Spontaneous shopping, fast fashion, low-quality clothes, trendy clothes for one time - all this leads to an accumulation of things in the closet, and consequently on the planet. 

The fashion industry brings a lot of environmental problems (the second biggest polluter in terms of emissions): hyper-consumption of water, use of chemicals in production, waste, and millions of tons of discarded clothes. But it's important to realize this, to start with ourselves, to approach shopping consciously, abandon unnecessary attempts, and live with the planet in a friendly way. What steps to take and what to pay attention to - in our article.

The rules of the conscious consumer, or how not to offend yourself and nature

• Don't be afraid of vintage and second-hand stores. Very often you can find there something super cool and appropriate for your closet. 
• Give things away for recycling, give them to friends or sell them. Remember the rule: every item is entitled to a second chance. Once worn a dress may not be useful to you anymore, but for someone will be a real boon. 
• Do not make emotional purchases. When you're sad, you not only want to eat a chocolate bar but also to go shopping. In such a state there is a risk to buy something obviously far from your usual style. 
• Buy quality clothes. One quality pair of jeans will replace several cheaper pairs. So think about making the right investment and taking care of nature at the same time. 
• Choose cruelty-free clothing (the animal rights movement), betting on brands that don't harm fauna. 

Now let's figure out what rational consumption is and why another purchase won't always make us happier. 

Rational consumption: what it is and why you should pay special attention to it

Many have heard of conscious consumption, but rational has its own separate definition. While the former focuses on caring for the planet, rational consumption focuses more on the financial side.

Next to rationale there is responsible consumption. It is a healthy approach to clothing choices, avoiding unnecessary, rash purchases. By the way, also with concern for the planet and our own wallets. Now let's figure out how to put together a closet, not to deny ourselves what we want, but also to take care of the world around us.

Responsible consumption is a necessity, not just a trend

In Happy Money, psychologist and professor at the University of British Columbia Elizabeth Dunn and Harvard Business School professor Michael Norton proved that the accumulation of things does not make us happy. Money has a way of giving us joy, but not necessarily through purchases. Experiences and emotions can be a good investment. But for now, let's get back to the closet and find out what responsible consumption is. 

First, it is a thoughtful approach to shopping. No spontaneity and another dress when you're sad. Second, it's taking care of the planet as a whole. Just imagine: giving up one substandard T-shirt can help the entire population (great if everyone thinks about it). 

So how do you become a conscious consumer and not buy unnecessary things?

Step 1: Sort out your closet. Decide on a capsule that you wear all the time. This is your "working" base. Those items that you don't wear but look great have different fates waiting for them. First, you can donate them. Second, sell or take to shelters. 

Step 2: Learn to say "no" to impulse shopping. Before you buy a new thing, ask yourself: does it fit your style or not, whether it combines with other things, whether it will please you more than one season.

Step 3: Buy quality clothes. This will help to avoid cluttering, throwing clothes away often and, as a consequence, burning them.

For example, minnim jeans can last as long as 8 seasons. This means that one pair will function in your closet for a whole 2 years, and maybe even longer. Unlike many mass-market items, which often live for just one spring.  

Rational use of resources is not just about clothes and fashion. It's also about closing the faucet while brushing your teeth, saving energy, and quality things. Switching to the light-conscious side is not difficult. Start, for example, by making a shopping list with only the things you need and bet on quality jeans, then you're sure to make the right choice.