Now that it is getting colder — October has brought brisk mornings and chill evenings — most of us are embarking on the task of turning over our closets and breaking out autumn and, dare I say, winter clothes.
Bidding goodbye to those cute summer shorts and bathing suits is not easy for some, while others embrace the lower temperatures and are true fall-fashion junkies.
Either way, it's at this time of year when most of us feel like we need something new, something different — something in the closet that feels like 2008. However, new clothes cost money and expend resources to reproduce.
Synthetic fibers are made from petroleum, an oil resource not to be squandered! The process also uses large amounts of energy (more oil), releases emissions including toxic gases and volatile organic compounds, and produces solvents and other byproducts that are federally regulated as hazardous waste. Most natural fibers, unless they are organic, are sprayed with copious amounts of polluting pesticides. Then there is the social concern over working conditions and wage practices at the many overseas clothing factories.
So do we head to the mall, or are there other ways to spare expense and still ignite some spark into our wardrobes? The following Green Quick Fixes will help you add new life to your closet, save money, and reduce energy and resource consumption.
Have a swap party. Invite friends, coworkers, and folks from the neighborhood for a night of coffee, libations, and snacks. Set up tables or an area where guests can lay out their swaps and a dressing room with full length. When everyone is done shopping and trying things on they'll feel like they've just been to the mall on a shopping spree!
Go online. Try swapstyle.com. Browse through others closets all over the world and post your own items. You can swap, buy, or sell at this Web site free of charge!
Consider consignment shops. There are many great ones popping up all over the North Shore. Bring gently worn items that you know you won't wear and see what the stores have to offer at prices far below department stores.
Share unwanted clothes with friends. Often that piece you purchased last year and never wore really looks better on your friend Lauren, and she would be thrilled to have it. Probably she has something she's not worn that would look better on you too!
Check in with the family. Styles always come back (the '80s are back with a vengeance), and you never know what they might have kept around in one of their many closets. If your mom is like mine, there may still be tags on some of these forgotten goodies! And her red boucle jacket from school? It fits like a dream.
Try sewing. Classes, some with machines, are available at fabric stores, community centers, and more. Or, ask a friend who sews to hang out one night. Make dinner and have her help you turn something simple into something sleek.
Cover up stains! Have a great shirt but ruined it with food oils or grease the first time you wore it? Iron on or sew patches—even design your own prints. Transfer sheets available at office supply stores can save the day. With a scanner, graphics program, printer and iron you can create anything and resurrect a wounded, but otherwise great garment. And with the 1980s returned, bows and other fabric embellishments will also make that stained garment appear deadly trendy.
Fix leather shoes (and handbags) — it's worth it. Cobblers can save a pair of well-loved shoes that you can't find anywhere else. Replacing heels, re-stitching, and polishing will have your accessories looking great and lasting a few more seasons.
Buy a pill shaver. While they do use energy, it may be worth it because they'll keep all your sweaters, dress pants, and shirts looking fresh.
Donate unwanted clothing. Coats in particular are of great need in New England. Many organizations, Goodwill, and area churches and synagogues are seeking coat donations early — before the cold weather begins.
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Andrea Fox, a Beverly resident, has been writing about environmental sustainability and eco-topics for eight years. She is a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists and a watershed protection advocate in Salem Sound Watershed.
