What is Sustainable Fashion and Why is it Important?

Do you ever wonder what happened to that shirt you bought, but then ended up disposing of because it went out of style? In India, the fashion industry manufactures large amounts of products every year but almost 80% of textile waste ends up in landfills. The fashion industry is responsible for 92 million tonnes of textile waste each year, almost equal to the weight of 5000 Qutub Minars, if that ever existed!

But it’s not all bad news, because sustainable fashion offers a way to reverse this damage. More than being just a trend that is followed every now and then, sustainable fashion is a concept that has a bigger impact on the fashion industry and on the environment. And it is not only about using exo friendly materials for the products, but also about making changes to the process from the start. You might be someone studying in a fashion designing institute in Bangalore, or a consumer looking to make conscious decisions, both of which require in-depth knowledge of sustainable fashion. And sustainable fashion takes the planet’s well being along with also looking into the needs of the consumers. But sustainable fashion is a concept that has only its first few layers uncovered, and this blog aims to unravel all that is about sustainable fashion.

Now Let’s Understand Why is Sustainable Fashion Important

The industry of Fashion plays a huge role in the consumption of massive amounts of water, energy, and raw materials. And in the current times when the world might be falling short on resources, being mindful is extremely important, be it for a producer or a consumer. But the main culprit is fast fashion. As the name suggests, fast fashion is producing cheap, disposable clothing at lightning speed, this business model encourages overconsumption and waste.

Adopting the practice of sustainable fashion is the best way to tackle this issue. Promoting a shift in the mindset – from quantity to quality, you’re not just buying clothes but making an investment in pieces that last, both in terms of durability and style. And following sustainable fashion can be beneficial in more ways than one, like :

Reduction in Water Waste

Did you know that it takes 2,700 liters of water to produce just one cotton T-shirt? Sustainable fashion focuses on water-efficient practices, using organic materials and low-impact dyes that significantly reduce water consumption.

Decreases Landfill Waste

Over 92 million tons of textiles are discarded annually. Sustainable fashion addresses this by creating durable, timeless pieces that don’t end up in the trash after a season.

Minimizes Carbon Emissions

The fashion industry is a major polluter, contributing around 10% of global carbon emissions. Sustainable fashion uses renewable energy, low-energy processes, and locally sourced materials to drastically cut down on emissions.

Promotes Recycling

Many sustainable brands create clothes from recycled materials like old fabrics or even plastic bottles. This reduces waste and gives existing materials a second life instead of letting them pile up in landfills.

Encourages Mindful Shopping

Fast fashion thrives on impulse buying and constant trends, but sustainable fashion pushes for a mindset shift. It teaches us to ask: “Do I really need this? Will I wear this for years?”

What Are The 7Rs Of Sustainable Fashion?

If you’ve ever looked at your overflowing closet and felt guilty about barely wearing half of it, you’re not alone. Sustainable fashion isn’t just about the materials your clothes are made from—it’s about changing how we approach fashion as a whole. The 7 Rs of sustainable fashion offer a simple yet effective guide to reduce waste and rethink consumption. These Rs aren’t just for environmentalists; they’re for anyone who wants to make a difference, no matter how small. From reducing unnecessary purchases to repairing clothes you already own, these principles make sustainable fashion accessible and impactful. Here’s how you can apply the 7 Rs to your daily life.

Reduce: Say no to impulse buys; choose fewer, better-quality items.
Reuse: Extend a garment’s life by re-wearing or passing it on.
Recycle: Ensure old clothes are given new life through recycling programs.
Repair: Patch up holes or sew on buttons instead of discarding clothes.
Repurpose: Transform items like old scarves into headbands or tote bags.
Refuse: Avoid buying clothes that are wasteful, unethical, or poorly made.
Rethink: Take a step back to evaluate your fashion choices, prioritizing mindful consumption

Sustainable Fashion Brands in India

With several brands coming into the sector of sustainable fashion, India is taking its step to be at the forefront of creating environmentally friendly clothes. Home to some of the world’s finest craftspeople and centuries-old textile techniques, India is blending traditional artistry with modern innovation to create sustainable fashion that’s both stylish and responsible. Some brands that stand in the forefront of sustainable fashion in India are :

Ka-Sha: Founded by Karishma Shahani Khan, Ka-Sha emphasizes upcycling through its “Heart To Haat” project, transforming post-production waste into unique clothing, bags, and accessories.
Joskai Studio: Collaborating with grassroots artisans from ethnic communities, Joskai Studio showcases unique craftsmanship and textile innovation, resulting in sustainable women’s fashion that celebrates India’s diverse heritage.
Earth Republic: As a vegan fashion brand, Earth Republic utilizes plant-based fabrics like sugarcane and moss to craft eco-friendly shirts, tops, and dresses for both men and women, promoting responsible sourcing and minimal production.

Asmita Marwa: Recognized by Vogue as a top up-and-coming international designer, Asmita Marwa’s label is dedicated to sustainable fashion, creating garments using ethical norms and practices that fuse traditional and global aesthetics.
Rina Dhaka: A veteran in the fashion industry, Rina Dhaka incorporates sustainability into her designs by blending traditional and modern materials, emphasizing the preservation of traditional craftwork skills.
No Nasties: Based in Goa, No Nasties offers 100% organic cotton clothing for men and women. Their commitment to sustainability includes fair trade practices and a focus on carbon-neutral production.
Doodlage : Founded by Kriti Tula, the brand has built its identity around the philosophy of creating “zero waste” collections. By blending patchwork techniques, innovative cuts, and vibrant prints, Doodlage creates clothing that is as creative as it is eco-friendly.
Okhai : Seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with modern designs, Okhai is rooted in a commitment to ethical practices and environmental consciousness. The brand focuses on empowering rural artisans while emphasizing on the use of natural, locally sourced materials, including cotton, jute, and other eco-friendly fabrics.

Sustainable Fashion Ideas That You Can Adopt

You might be someone who is confused as to what should be the first steps towards practicing sustainable fashion. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming, instead can be started with small changes you can bring about in your wardrobe. It all starts with a change in mindset, which eventually leads to a change in your actions, resulting in mindful decisions. Here’s how you can begin :

Buy Less, Choose Wisely: Before buying something, ask yourself if it’s versatile and will last several seasons.
Shop Secondhand: Thrift stores and online resale platforms are goldmines for unique, affordable finds.
Care for What You Own: Wash clothes in cold water, avoid excessive drying, and repair small damages instead of discarding items.
Invest in Timeless Pieces: Choose styles that won’t go out of fashion quickly to minimize over-purchasing.
Research Brands: Support companies that prioritize eco-friendly practices and ethical labor standards.

A Step Towards Sustainable Fashion

Sustainable fashion is a journey that doesn’t have to mean that you give up your love for fashion and style. It just means you understand the impact that the fashion industry has, and take mindful decisions while being on top of your fashion game. As a student who is looking to pursue a career in fashion designing, you must know that the fashion industry has long been driven by overconsumption and fleeting trends, but it’s time to change the methods of production and consumption. Sustainable fashion offers a more meaningful way to engage with clothing—one that values quality, longevity, and ethics.

Every time you choose a sustainable brand, repair a torn sleeve, or thrift instead of buying new, you’re contributing to a larger movement. These small choices may feel insignificant, but collectively, they can create lasting change in the industry. As consumers, we hold immense power to drive change. Sustainable fashion is a call to action, asking us to rethink our habits and make choices that reflect care and thoughtfulness. Together, we can turn fashion into a force for good—one that uplifts, preserves, and protects. It’s a challenge worth taking on, for ourselves and for future generations.

eco friendly fashion, environmental fashion, sustainable clothing, sustainable fashion, sustainable fashion ideas

Halston – The Legendary American Fashion Designer of the 70s

March 16, 2024

Fashion Courses Interior Design Courses Jewellery Design Courses UI/UI Courses Visual Arts Courses Other Courses OTHER COURSES Contact us Bengaluru Campus 1 : JD School of Design, No. 18-1, Brigade Road, Bengaluru,Karnataka – 560 001. Campus 2 : No. 40, Swan House, 4th Cross, Residency Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560001. +91 9901 999 903 +91 9901 999 904 +91 9480 323 232 jdfashion@jdindia.com Goa Musthtifund Saunstha , Near Mahalaxmi Temple,Dada Vaidya Road, Goa-403001 +91 9606 096 060 +91 9606 048 888 jdfashion@jdindia.com Halston: Legacy of the Legendary Designer Halston was the epitome of 70s glamour, a designer whose name became synonymous with elegance, minimalism, and an effortless chic that redefined American fashion. Roy Halston Frowick, better known simply as Halston, wasn’t just a couturier; he was a cultural phenomenon, a star whose brilliance burned bright before tragically fading into the shadows. This is the story of his meteoric rise, his reign as the king of American fashion, and the dramatic fall that left the industry forever changed. Wikipedia His name is back in the chatter because of the Netflix miniseries – Halston. Halston’s shimmering legacy finds new life in Ryan Murphy’s Netflix miniseries, “Halston.” Ewan McGregor embodies the enigmatic designer, showcasing his meteoric rise from pillbox hats to disco divas, capturing both the genius and the demons that fueled his journey. Men’s Health More than just a fashion biopic, the series delves into the social and cultural context that shaped Halston’s vision. We see how his minimalist designs mirrored the changing attitudes of the 70s, empowering women with elegance and freedom. From Indiana Farm Boy to Manhattan Milliner: Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1932, Halston’s journey to fashion stardom was anything but conventional. As a young boy, he displayed an aptitude for sewing, crafting dresses for his sister, and dreaming of a life beyond the farm. At 18, he set off for Chicago, enrolling in art school and taking his first steps into the world of fashion design. His big break came in 1957 when he moved to New York City and landed a job at millinery legend John Frederics. His designs, particularly the pillbox hat worn by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, catapulted him to fame. Halston’s pillboxes became a defining accessory of the Kennedy era, a symbol of Jackie’s grace and sophistication. InStyle The Halstonian Look: The “Halstonian look” was all about minimalism and modernity. In 1966, Halston started his label, focusing on clean lines, luxurious fabrics, and easy, wearable designs. He avoided overly elaborate decorations and instead embraced a subtle elegance that matched the evolving times. This new style was defined by flowing caftans, jersey dresses, and the iconic Ultrasuede. Pinterest Disco’s Darling: In the 1970s, Halston became a major figure in the world of fashion, especially during the disco era. His designs came to represent the glitz and freedom of that time. When Bianca Jagger wore a memorable white jersey dress for her Studio 54 wedding, it cemented Halston’s reputation as the go-to designer for the glamorous and influential. Celebrities such as Liza Minnelli, Lauren Bacall, and Elizabeth Taylor also wore his clothes, further establishing him as a favorite among Hollywood’s elite. Into The Fashion Beyond Fashion: Building an Empire: Halston’s influence went beyond just designing clothes. He changed the game by pioneering licensing deals, and expanding his brand into perfume, luggage, and even airline uniforms. He also established boutiques across the globe, shaping a lifestyle brand that epitomized luxury and contemporary style. His achievements were extraordinary, propelling him to become a cultural icon whose name became synonymous with glamour and achievement. Garments that Defined an Era: The Ultrasuede shirtdress was a huge hit, known for its easy flow and flattering cowl neck. It became a bestseller, adorning the likes of Jackie Kennedy and everyday women alike. Bianca Jagger’s Studio 54 wedding dress, a stunning yet simple white jersey column, perfectly captured the freedom and allure of the disco era. Halston’s jersey jumpsuits, such as the one worn by Lauren Bacall in “Murder on the Orient Express,” exuded a refined elegance with a hint of Hollywood glamour. Town & Country Magazine A Legacy Etched in Fashion: Even after experiencing a decline in his career, Halston’s legacy remains strong. His minimalist style, emphasis on comfort, and pioneering use of fabrics continue to inspire modern designers. Labels such as Narciso Rodriguez and The Row reflect his clean lines and luxurious simplicity. His influence extends beyond fashion, shaping art, architecture, and even everyday lifestyle preferences. The Fall from Grace: The most tragic moment of Halston’s downfall occurred in 1984 when he lost control of his company due to financial mismanagement. He was forced out of his brand, which left him feeling bitter and devastated. Despite efforts to revive his career, he was never able to reclaim the success and prestige he once enjoyed. A Legacy Beyond the Fall: Halston’s narrative serves as a cautionary tale, blending artistic genius with personal challenges. Despite his setbacks, his influence on fashion endures. His sleek designs and opulent fabrics still inspire contemporary designers. His name is inseparable from an era of opulence and freedom, a tribute to his visionary artistry. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply drawn to captivating stories of triumph and downfall, consider watching “Halston” on Netflix. The series provides a fascinating peek into the life and impact of a designer who “forever changed American fashion.” CNN A Lesson to Aspiring Fashion Designers: Halston’s story, marked by both triumph and tragedy, holds valuable lessons for aspiring fashion designers today, extending beyond his design aesthetic: Vision and Innovation: Halston fearlessly challenged the prevailing norms by embracing minimalism and comfort during an era of extravagance. His emphasis on clean lines and luxurious fabrics illustrates the power of a unique vision and the courage to innovate, teaching young designers the importance of embracing change. Understanding Your Audience: Halston’s designs went beyond aesthetics, empowering women with comfort and freedom. He recognized cultural shifts and addressed the needs of