We’ve all heard that fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world, but the good news is that small, mindful choices can make a big difference. This Earth Day, we’re spotlighting simple ways to clean up your closet and beauty shelf without compromising style or self-care.
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Give your clothes a second life
One of the easiest and most impactful things you can do is recycle your old clothes instead of tossing them out. H&M has clothing collection bins at select stores, allowing you to drop off unwanted garments regardless of their brand or condition. These pieces are then sorted, reused, resold, or recycled into new materials. It’s a guilt-free way to part with that old pair of jeans that no longer fit but still has plenty of life left.
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Rent, don’t buy—especially for one-off events
If you’re headed to a wedding or a formal dinner, resist the urge to splurge on something new that’ll only see the light of day once. Poetry now offers a dress rental service that lets you borrow a gorgeous gown for a fraction of the price (and environmental impact). Not only does it free up space in your wardrobe, but it also encourages a slower, more considered approach to fashion.
Thrift it forward
Buying pre-loved isn’t what it used to be. From curated Instagram shops to polished online platforms, thrifting and reselling clothes have gone digital—and chic. Look for South African-based platforms where you can browse curated second-hand finds or list your pieces for sale. It’s a win-win: you score unique items and extend the lifespan of garments already in circulation.
Choose beauty that’s kinder to the planet
Our skincare routines deserve the same eco-love. South African beauty brands like Skoon and ENOUGH are leading the way with clean ingredients, recyclable packaging and a strong focus on ethical sourcing. Skoon’s refillable options and ENOUGH’s minimalist formulas make it easy to feel good about what you’re putting on your skin—and sending down the drain.
If you’re looking to expand your eco-conscious collection, keep an eye out for local brands that are transparent about their production practices. Look for buzzwords like biodegradable, cruelty-free, plastic-free and vegan, but don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper. A truly sustainable brand will share details about their supply chain, ingredients, and packaging efforts—usually right there on their website.
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Think progress, not perfection
Sustainable living isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about doing what you can, where you can. Whether renting your next date night dress, trying a new eco-friendly serum, or giving your wardrobe a mini clear-out, every step counts.
And what better time to start than Earth Day?
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