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How to be a Sustainable Shopaholic

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UVA chapter.

There is no better feeling than clicking “add to cart” and “check out” on your laptop. The sudden rush of adrenaline, happiness, and satisfaction is so worth spending money on for that cute top. But behind each click is a punch to the environment. Over consumerism killing the earth is no new topic and it’s time that we shopaholics change the way we shop.

Don’t fall for micro-trends

Remember those hideous galaxy leggings everyone wore back in 2012? One day you are going to look back at your closet and think – why on earth did I buy that? Micro-trends are two-time wear and throw-out items and most of the time is never made to be recyclable either. I promise you that four dollar Shein skirt is not worth killing the environment for.

THRIFT ONLINE

One of the main controversies of fashionable thrifting is that it takes away clothes from people who actually need them. Especially in marginalized communities, thrift stores should not be the place for you to find that cute 2000’s tank. Instead, try online thrift stores where people sell the most trendy and popular brands. I have saved 100’s of dollars on Lululemon by shopping from apps like Curtsy and Poshmark. Not only are you decreasing your environmental footsteps and saving money but you are saving a shirt from being tossed in a landfill.

ALWAYS DONATE OR SELL

Never, ever, throw your unused clothes in the trash. Somewhere out there is a person who would love to give your thrown-out clothes tons of love and care. Clothing bins for charity are most likely in your town and so are thrift stores. If you are looking to make some cash, consider selling on e-Bay or Poshmark! Always check the label to see if your clothes are recyclable because in the rare case – it’s fine to throw into the bin.

Happy Shopping!

My name is Yuni Choi and I am a second-year at the University of Virginia. In my free time, I enjoy organizing my Spotify playlists!