13 Ways to Recycle Your Wardrobe
As kids our parents always told us to not let things go to waste. But when it comes to fashion those rules simply just don't apply for most. Remember that garbage bag full of clothes you just hauled to your trash shoot in preparation for spring cleaning? That's a no-go.
While fashion makes the world a better place, visually, it can have its downfalls internally as it adds more waste to our precious Earth. According to global retailer, H&M, "Of the thousands of tonnes of textiles thrown away every year, 95% could be re-worn or recycled."
Instead of letting your unwanted clothing go to waste check out our Vixen-approved 13 ways to recycle your wardrobe.
Continue clicking for our solution to going green, the chic way.
1. Donate to Goodwill
When cleaning out your closet, Goodwill should be your first stop. Donate items to your local Goodwill and you can receive coupons for the thrifty discount store or even get a tax deduction.
Photo Credit: Goodwill of Dekalb
2. Drop off loved items to your local H&M
The first retailer to launch a global clothing collecting initiative, H&M has always been a trendsetter when it comes to sustainably chic clothing. Bring a bag of your previously loved goods to your local H&M and in return you'll be rewarded with a discount voucher for future purchases at the retailer. How sweet right?
Photo Credit: H&M
3. J.Crew is another mass retailer hoping to change the wasteful face of fashion. Watch out for their daily newsletter of goodies, as they sometimes offer discounts for bringing in your old clothing.
Photo Credit: J.Crew
4. Garage Sale
Garage sale anyone? Grab your girls, a few pitchers of lemonade, some clothing racks and tables, and circulate a few flyers throughout your neighborhood - it's that easy. We're almost 100 percent sure your nosey neighbors will love your previously worn duds - one mans trash is another's treasure, right? Plus you'll earn yourself a few dollars, what's not to love?
Photo Credit: Getty Images
5. Clothing Swap Party
Shop to your hearts content in the comfort of your own home. Clothing swap parties are an awesome way to trade clothes with friends, family, etc and spend $0. I guess we can assume that clothes, accessories, and shoes are the gifts that keep on giving.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
6. Consignment Shopping
We've already proclaimed our love for fiscally responsible fashionistas so consignment shopping is another one of our go-to ways to shop and save. Consignment stores usually offer you half the price you originally paid dependent upon condition and wear of items.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
7. Pass it to a sibling
Ever spied a piece in your siblings closet that you just had to have? Anyone with a sister or brother is guilty of this. Instead of taunting your sibling by tossing clothes you no longer have an interest, why not pass it on to them? They will definitely be appreciative of your thoughtfulness.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
8. Give to a homeless shelter
Whether it's your local homeless shelter or you feel comfortable enough to pack a box and personally bestow your loved items upon those less fortunate, giving back to those with little to none is refreshing. It costs nothing to spread happiness, and that feeling is more rewarding than money could ever be.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
9. Ebay
And the T by Alexander Wang T-shirt goes to the highest bidder. Don't forget about the pioneer in consumer-to-consumer business, Ebay. Post your unwanted items and watch the bids roll in like crazy.
Photo Credit: Ebay
10. Planet Aid
This nonprofit organization reduces waste by collecting and recycling used clothes and shoes, supporting international efforts for building countries. Visit their website to find one of their metropolitan areas' clothes collection boxes in your area.
Photo Credit: Planet Aid
11. Earth 911
Their slogan, "more ideas, less waste," is one that we absolutely love. Check out their website to participate in recycling ventures and find more ways to be green.
Photo Credit: Earth 911
12. DIY Project
Repurpose your old t-shirt into a new work of art. Check out DIY projects on pinterest.
Photo Credit: Pinterest
13. Dress for Success
Have old work/professional clothing you no longer need? Change a woman's life who is in need and hoping to make a great first impression..
Photo Credit: Dress for Success
