How To Shop Sustainably: GOOD Design is SUSTAINABLE Design

I don’t know why it has taken me so long to get on the Fashion Sustainability Train. After further investigation, I have learned about the unbelievable amount of waste produced by the fashion industry every day. 

I am on a journey to become more educated about fast fashion and how to shop ethically so I can contribute to improving the world around us! I hope you will join me on this journey so we can discover new ways to improve our world together. I’ll continue to pass on tips I learn along the way.

---

Listen to the Facts…

Environment Pollution
Next to oil, fashion is the second-largest contributor to environmental pollution! Crazy right? The clothing we wear daily can drastically affect the environment around us. Fabrics like polyester and cotton are made from chemical processes that are severely dangerous to the environment.

Water Waste and Contamination
The fashion industry is also responsible for 20% of the world's water waste. The amount of water it takes to produce certain textiles is the factor, not people washing their clothes more than they need to. That's not all! Toxic chemicals from denim dye and leather tanning are released into the water near factories, polluting the water.

More Trash
Fast fashion is especially harmful to the environment...What is fast fashion?  Fast fashion is cheap, trendy clothing, that is inspired by sample ideas from the catwalk or celebrity culture.  Manufacturers are able to make garments for sale at lower end stores or online at a crazy speed to meet consumer demand.  At it's inexpensive price tag it is easy to wear and toss after just a season. Therefore putting more and more man made fabrics in waste sites.

---

Where Do We Start?

So in hopes to redeem myself, I came up with a helpful list of things to keep in mind when making purchases so you can shop more sustainably.

1. Ask yourself, will you get more than 25 wears out of something?
This is my favorite one yet! When you’re about to purchase a clothing item, think to yourself, “Will I wear it a minimum of 25 times?” If your answer is yes, then you know you'll get the wear out of the item and it won't necessarily be "harmful" because you won't be tossing it after a season. However, you will be surprised about how many times you will say no.

2. Buy Less!
Keep yourself from buying different versions of the same style of shirt or jeans if you know you’re not going to wear them.  Really think about using what's in your wardrobe before purchasing more.

3. Upcycle!
By finding new uses for old clothes, you can decrease the amount of waste you produce from unwanted clothing you have laying around. I love finding new companies who create their lines with this in mind.

4. Look after your clothes so they last longer
This one sounds pretty obvious but I promise you that this is important! If you look after your clothing well enough, you won’t have to be replacing items so frequently.

5. Shop Vintage
Adding more vintage items to your closet will not only be super stylish but also great for the environment! Making new items only increases the amount of new energy needed. But for vintage clothing, it’s none.

6. Be Informed
It is easy to message a company on social media and ask what they are doing to watch their carbon footprint. Do a little research to find a handful of brands you love and start from there! There are quite a bit of clothing brands that keep sustainable clothing in mind.

7. Avoid the temptation of fast fashion
Purchasing fast fashion items might seem like it will save you money. Keep in mind what the people making those garments might be making. What are their working conditions like? As well as what harm is it doing to the environment?

---

Final Thoughts

Every day without realizing it, we make decisions that affect the environment in ways that are hard to recover from. I hope that I have provided you with enough information that will make you think twice about future purchases cause I know my views have changed!

Watch my IGTV series: Shopping Sustainability and follow my journey as I learn more about this package. I’ll be sharing my findings and any tips that will be helpful to you ladies.

Fashionably Yours,

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

Best Way to Add Color to Your Wardrobe

Are you in a color rut? or a "colorless" rut might be a better way to describe it! Is your closet full of black and neutral pieces?

I bet every time you wear color you receive lots of compliments. I'm also willing to bet it's an instant mood booster. I know it is for me! And, in 2020, who can't use a mood booster!

Did you know that wearing specific colors, (color therapy) has been used in spiritual and chakra healing for many years to help raise good vibrations? It really works!

It would be very easy to recommend changing your nail polish, adding a pop of color to your handbags or shoes and those are great ways to bring in colors but are still a little non-commital.

Here are three great ways to bring color to your wardrobe to brighten your complexion and your mood. These suggestions will add color to where it matters most (to your face), they don't have to cost a lot of money and won't create outfit dilemma by making them difficult to style.

1) Tops and Tees

Tees are easy because they don't have to cost a lot of money and you can accessorize with a necklace or fun scarf to make your outfit look more than just a tee and bottom. Try using the scarf around your waist or belt loop to coordinate the whole look. If a tee is too casual for what you need try a cardi layering piece combo. aka as twinset. this doesn't have to be your mother’s twinset, it can be very updated by wearing the cardi tied and worn across your shoulders, around your waist or "shoulder robed" just covering your shoulders.

2) Dresses

These don't require a lot of fuss because you pretty much have one piece to worry about and all you have to style is the shoes. You can have a little more fun here by making it a dress in a print. Find prints you love...geometric, floral, large floral?

Dresses are a great way to spruce up your wardrobe. With an easy shoe and accessory swap, you can go from casual to dressy in a minute!

3) Let’s Talk Makeup

Shake up the lipstick and shadows. You don’t have to be super bright, just bringing your lip color up a notch will do the trick! Pre-COVID, I was in a HUGE makeup rut…I noticed how much better I looked on video calls with just a pop of color on my lips. I still love my natural, neutral lips, but if I am going to be on a video call I “take it up a notch”!

Some Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the easiest ways to add a pop of color to any wardrobe. There are endless ways to add color to your closet and if you want to shake up your color vibes, I’d love to help!

In the meantime, I’d love to see your color picks in action! Please share your photos with me @TheRealChachaOlivia or use #ChachaOliviaStylingTips. I love seeing all your creativity come to life and confidence bloom through your style.

As always my beautiful ladies, I offer free, no-obligation 30 minute calls for those who want to learn more about working with me. I’m not kidding…this is a chance to chat with me for 30 minutes about your questions, your fashion and styling needs, and your wonderings about working together. No stress, no commitment, just a good chat. I hope to chat with you very soon!

Fashionably Yours,

Just a little reminder for those ladies that are thinking about signing up for my Signature Service: Stylist In My Pocket. I’m happy to answer any questions via email about this service and how it works. But don't think on it too long, there are only 4 spots left! Sign up today and let's get stylin'!

Thank you!

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

Why I'm Not Going To Talk To You About The Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale.

It’s that time of year again…The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here! It is always a huge event with lots of great bargains. Everyone is talking about it except me. Nothing against Nordstrom’s…but why don’t I have anything to add?

Recently I posted a social media challenge to my readers to take a few minutes on a Saturday to pull a couple items from their wardrobe to either toss or donate. I always like to suggest donating an item when it is in good condition and could be loved again. One follower mentioned that she was new to the area and asked where I would recommend donating clothing. I reached out to a woman who works for a local nonprofit and asked for her suggestions. This was her reply, “Theo, I have called several nonprofits asking if they’ll take women’s clothing donations. No one is accepting them…We Americans shop and replace so much, I guess, they have all the clothes they need.” You can imagine my surprise.

Why do most women I know say, “I have so many clothes in my closet and yet I feel like I have nothing to wear!” Truth be told, I often feel the same way. I have given this a lot of thought and personally I don’t want to keep adding to my collection unless it’s absolutely something that will fill a void or completes a look.

As a personal stylist, my responsibility to my clients is to help them find their unique look. I want to assist them by starting with basic items and then building upon those basics. If we work together I wouldn’t offer “my picks” without chatting with you and getting to know more about you. These suggestions wouldn’t be helpful to you. They would just be adding even more items to your wardrobe without rhyme or reason. This, in turn, would keep you feeling like you “have nothing to wear.”

So, how do we start? I offer lots of suggestions for building a wardrobe on my blog and social media. I’d love for you to follow me and sign up to receive my emails. If you like what you read and feel comfortable with my advice, then we can begin the process of styling your collection.

Until then, let’s get to know each other. Check out Chacha-Olivia on Facebook and
@Therealchachaolivia on Instagram. Comment, Like and Share posts that you love. Then check out Ways to Work with Theo and My Styling Successes. I’d love for you to be as happy as these ladies.

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

Building On Your Summer Classics With "On Trend" Yet Timeless Pieces

I’m excited to show you how to build on your Summer Wardrobe of basics by mixing in some “on trend” but not too trendy pieces to update the looks.

I chose 11 of my “go to” Summer basics to work with as examples. Your basic options can be similar they don’t have to be exactly the same. For instance, you might choose denim shorts where I chose white or black. You might choose a navy, shorter dress where I chose a white longer version.

Check out this IG TV Styling Series @TheRealChachaOlivia for a closer look at all the items and styling tips CLICK HERE.

11 Basics Items you need in your closet

Take a closer look at the Chacha-Olivia: Summer Classics Catalogue

1. A lightweight dress-Long, short or midi. You can be pair it with sandals or fun sneakers. I get lots of mileage from this dress because it can be paired with so much. You may choose a different length or color but it would still be a great basic in your closet.

2. A denim jacket- This item is a great match with different outfits pretty much year round!

3. Solid Shorts- Neutral color  

4. Basic pants- Neutral color

5. Denim Skirt/Shorts- Length is your preference

6. Denim Blouse- this is also another great piece to have in your closet year round. In the summer you may choose sleeveless.

7. Light weight Short Sleeve Blouse- I get a lot of mileage out of this item too! Plus it is really comfortable and cool!

8. Basic White Tee

9. Simple white tank- another top that can be paired with everything and a tank top is a must have for the Summer.

10. Sneakers- White sneaker can be matched with all different colors and styles

11. Sandals- Pick a neutral sandal that can be switched between outfits

These are all great capsule items. A good rule of thumb, especially for a capsule, is 3 tops to 1 bottom. You could easily pack for a 2 week trip using these items creating around 15 outfits. That is really convenient and you won’t wear the same outfit twice.

On to updating these basics with “On trend” fun pieces to round out your wardrobe and create double the looks!

Take a closer look at the Chacha-Olivia: On Trend Summer Wardrobe Builders

Try adding the following…

*A printed tank. One that will work with 3 bottoms and that you can layer with the denim jacket too. This will give you a sleeveless option for those hot and humid days. Not into sleeveless? We can look at cap sleeve or you will see other options in the catalogue.

*A puffy sleeve is so on trend right now. My advice here is don’t overdo the puff. You will want to wear it in seasons to come! I opted for white and chose simplicity here because I knew I wouldn’t be layering it.

*Add a printed bottom or solid bright color pant or short. You can choose lengths from Mini, Midi, or even Maxi to fit your style.

*Finally shoes can be a great way to add some flare to your capsule items as well give your wardrobe a new look.

Here are my suggestions…

*Slides/Mules are very popular for Summer. You can choose simple again here or add something with some flair. I love this mule option over a flip flop. There is definitely more support and coverage but you still have the feel of being in a sandal.

One of my favorites to add to my capsule items is a trendy sneaker. You can choose a wild print to pair with your basics. You may choose a more mild look but try something that isn’t white!

Some Final Thoughts

Keep in mind ladies that these are my style picks. What I want to encourage you to do this Summer is to step outside your box and really make your wardrobe work for you. I’m all about shopping your closet and getting the most wear from what is in your wardrobe already. It is fun to add dimension to your wardrobe by adding pieces of interest! Please share your photos with me @TheRealChachaOlivia or use #ChachaOliviaStylingTips. I love seeing all your creative minds and confidence bloom through your style.

As always if you want to reach out to me for a quick 30 min chat so we can discuss your style, wardrobe dilemmas, or how to work with me, I’m always here for a fun girl chat! You can book a FREE 30 min call with me or check out my website to see how we can work together virtually. Look forward to chatting with you!

Fashionable yours,

---

While I will always select the best items for you, some of the links included may be automatically affiliated. This helps support my business and allows me to keep my rates what they are while spending the time necessary to find and create these recommendations.

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

Style Sunglasses To Work With Your Look

Hello Beautiful Ladies,

I received so many questions last week after sharing some of my sunglasses shopping tips. So I wanted to share a little BONUS Styling Tip for styling Sunglasses to work with your look. There are so many options for the fashionista to the minimalist plus several frame shapes that work for each face shape. Check out my Instagram Story Highlights were I go in a little further to share my sunglass styling tips.

So let’s dive in and lift up the shades on these great styling tips that I’m so excited to share with you.

Check out this helpful tool: Nordstrom’s Sunglasses Fit Guide to help you fit the best shape and frame for your face shape.

My first tip and an important one is to know which frame styles suit your face shape. There are certain frames that compliment a heart, round, square,or oval face shape. Check out the Let the Sun Shine- Sunglass Picks Catalogue for my picks for face shapes and style coordination to help you with find the best look for you. P.S You're lucky if you have an oval face. This means you can pretty much wear any shape lens!

NOW LET’S GET TO THE STYLING TIPS FOR EVERY KIND OF LOOK

BOHEMIAN LOOK

Are you a Boho Woman that dresses with a free spirit? Why not let this style reflect in your eye wear. I say get inspired by the John Lennon round frames. You can play with the size of the lens plus also incorporate some FUN Style Colors as well.

One Style REALLY Fits ALL!

Are you looking for an everyday sunglass that can be partnered with a casual weekend look or business office attire?

Say no more…

I suggest RayBan styles to my clients because there are some classic shapes like the Wayfarer frame and the Mirrored Aviator frame that can be a great match for every style.

Athletic Style

Are you in the fitness industry and the Athletic style speaks to you?

Here are my suggestions:

~ Choose Comfort and Function as a priority

~ Look for Polarized Glasses to avoid the glare for your outdoor activities

~ Look for non slip temples and nose pieces

~ Oakley has a new Women’s line that are light weight, polarized, non slip, breathable technology and SUPER STYLISH!

Feminine Look

Are you ready to get a fashion frame to accentuate your daily feminine look?

~ Cat eye is the perfect option for a "Fashion Frame" or Feminine look.

~ Choose a bold frame with some embellishments to highlight your beautiful facial features

~ Butterfly frame shapes and Hexagon frame shapes can really give you the sleek feminine look you are searching for.

Edgy City Chic

Are you willing to try new looks and are more on the edgy side of style.

I say Let’s have some FUN with Style!

~ Choose a Fashion Frame

~ Try Unique shapes and colors

~ Check out L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani for fun shapes, bold frames, and great color combos.

You’re ready to now match your sunglasses to your everyday style or even mix it up. Share your sunglass styling photos with me on Instagram @therealchachaolivia in stories or use #ChachaOliviaStyleTips! I can’t wait to see your Summer looks.

As always my beautiful ladies, I offer free, no-obligation 30 minute calls for those who want to learn more about working with me. I’m not kidding…this is a chance to chat with me for 30 minutes about your questions, your fashion and styling needs, and your wonderings about working together. No stress, no commitment, just a good chat. I hop to chat with you very soon!

Fashionable Yours,

---

You Might Like These Similar Blog Posts