Published

11 months ago

January 31, 2025

Alice Rush

In slow fashion, we often talk about “fewer, better”. All too often, though, we focus in on the fewer part and forget about the better.

Putting the “Better” in the Fewer, Better Philosophy

There’s no question that we need to produce and consume fewer things. But if we only think about the less part of the equation, slow fashion can feel like a sacrifice.

Yet when we focus on the better — cherishing the clothes we love, caring for them more intentionally, and setting high standards for what we allow into our closets — the fewer part comes more naturally. And the experience is so much more joyful.

When I stopped thinking about how I wasn’t “supposed to” buy more clothes and instead leaned into simply appreciating the beauty of the clothes already in my closet, I found myself wanting those new clothes less.

I created higher standards for what I allowed into my wardrobe. This not only led to fewer purchases but also made me happier with the clothes I did decide to purchase. And when you have such incredible garments already in your closet, fashion’s hype machine is a lot less tempting.

To be clear, this doesn’t mean I don’t love admiring good fashion or that I never buy anything! But I have become far more intentional with my purchases.

What Does “Better” Mean?

When you have garments you absolutely love — whether for their quality, materials, fit, or unique design — the relentless churn of newness loses its appeal.

But “better” doesn’t always mean more expensive. It means knowing what you love, and having a more discerning eye.

For me, I always look at materials first. Sure sometimes this can be a little more of an investment, but not always. There are designer brands that use 100% polyester for some garments, and plenty of mid-priced brands that are committed to using natural fibers. That natural mid-price garment is a way better investment in my opinion.

I prioritize natural materials because that is what “better” means to me.

Recently, I added a 100% organic linen button-down to my closet, and it’s an absolute dream. It was one of the few new (non-secondhand) items I added to my wardrobe in 2024, and I’d wear it every single day if I could. And then when I put on a polyester shirt, I can feel the difference. (As in literally feel the difference — I sweat so much more!)

Suddenly, having one amazing 100% linen shirt instead of five cheaper polyester ones doesn’t feel like a sacrifice. It feels like a gift.

The same goes for the secondhand cashmere sweater I swapped into my closet years ago.

I used to dread winter. Then, I found this sweater and I realized that I could actually make it through -10-degree days when wearing the right materials.

A single sweater changed how I viewed an entire season! This is the under-appreciated power and potential of clothing.

For you, “better” might not be about fabrics, but about the fit or the style or even the color and pattern. If you’re not sure what you would define “better” clothing as, start paying more attention to the clothes you enjoy wearing. What’s the silhouette? The color? The fabric?

There are often patterns among your go-to garments.

Cultivating Gratitude in Our Wardrobes

One of the most transformative practices I’ve incorporated into my slow fashion journey is gratitude.

In a world that constantly tells us we need this must-have trend, go to that unique next destination, or use this skincare product to look 10 years younger, it’s not easy to pause and acknowledge when we have enough.

But knowing our “enough point” doesn’t mean we stop evolving or refining our wardrobes — it means we approach fashion with a mindset of contentment rather than scarcity.

Here are some ways to cultivate gratitude in our wardrobes:

1) Honor Our “Hero Pieces”

Do you have pieces in your closet that you wear again and again — pieces that make you feel good, confident, comfortable, or put together? These are often called “hero pieces.”

Think about what those pieces are for you and how they’ve served you:

Maybe you have a trusty blouse that gave you confidence in an important job interview.
Maybe a particular handbag makes you feel put-together even on the days you were rushing out the door.
Maybe a certain pair of sweatpants is your go-to for a cozy, restful evening after a stressful week.

Perhaps it can sound silly at first to be grateful for clothing, but when we think about how clothes have supported us, it makes sense to appreciate these pieces.

Slow fashion isn’t about deprivation. It’s about developing a deeper sense of satisfaction and long-lasting joy from the clothes we already have.

2) Turn Overwhelm into Abundance

Recently, there was a trend on TikTok where people reframed complaints as expressions of gratitude. Instead of saying, “I have too many plans,” they’d say, “What a privilege it is to have a full life.”

Some (most?) of us probably have closets with more clothes than we regularly wear. Instead of saying, “I’m overwhelmed by my closet,” we can reframe it:

“What a privilege it is to have a closet so full of clothes that I have options.”
“What an opportunity to rediscover and restyle pieces I already own.”
“What a chance to rehome items that no longer fit my life and bring joy to someone else.”

Instead of feeling guilt over a full closet, I try to see it as an opportunity — whether that’s restyling an old favorite or passing something along to a new loving home.

3) Acknowledge the Makers of Our Clothes

Behind every garment — whether it’s a handmade artisan piece or a mass-produced fast fashion item — are skilled hands of artisans, garment makers, sewists, and factory workers. Even industrial sewing machines are operated by real people.

When we pause to recognize this skilled labor, we not only develop a renewed sense of appreciation for our pieces, but we also acknowledge the (often undervalued and underpaid) workers who brought them to life.

Big fashion brands often hide these makers and the exploitative conditions they face. But recognizing the human effort behind each garment can help us shift our relationship with fashion. It can empower us to advocate for ethical labor conditions and fair wages in the industry.

Final Reflections: Gratitude as a Path to Slow Fashion

Practicing gratitude in our wardrobes is about more than just feeling good (though that is a good perk!) — it’s about reshaping how we engage with fashion.

When we approach our closets with gratitude, we shift from a mindset of scarcity and overwhelm to one of abundance and enoughness.

This practice helps us honor the value in what we already have, recognize the immense work that goes into every garment, and become more resilient against a culture that constantly urges us to consume more, no matter how much we already have.

Gratitude doesn’t mean we stop striving for better or stop curating our wardrobes. It means we approach these decisions with more care, joy, and appreciation.

And that is what truly puts the “better” in the “fewer, better” philosophy of slow fashion.

Want to get more slow fashion tips and inspiration?

The post Fewer, Better: How to Cultivate Gratitude in Slow Fashion appeared first on .

Fewer, Better: How to Cultivate Gratitude in Slow Fashion

Green Living

What is Planned Obsolescence? +6 Ways to Combat It

Published

1 week ago

December 19, 2025

Alice Rush

Last Updated on December 19, 2025

If you’ve ever bought an electronic only for it to short out prematurely, congratulations: You’ve met planned obsolescence.

And planned obsolescence isn’t just for electronics. It’s factored into everything we buy – including our clothes and furniture. But what exactly is planned obsolescence, and how can you avoid it?

In truth, it’s hard to avoid – but there are ways we can fight back. Here’s everything you need to know about planned obsolescence and ways to combat it.

what is planned obsolescence?

Planned obsolescence is essentially when something is built to fail. This can be anything – electronics, light fixtures, clothes, or furniture.

Items aren’t made to last on purpose, forcing us to buy replacements frequently. And why is this done? In short, for profit.

If we buy a lightbulb and it lasts us twenty years – that’s a one and done sale. But if we have to replace that light bulb every three years, businesses profits will soar.

And mentioning lightbulbs is intentional – because planned obesolence started out with one. In 1924, lightbulbs lasted 2,500 hours.

But lightbulb manufacturers realized their lightbulbs lasted too long, forming Phoebus Cartel – which intentionally reduced lightbulb lifespan by over 50%. This meant lightbulbs would only last 1,000 hours, forcing customers to buy bulbs sooner. Not to mention, prices rose.

This can still be seen today – we have enough clothing to cloth the next six generations. Yet fashion brands continue to pump out cheap garments that will break apart after only a few wears. Some of the garments are so cheap even clothing recycling initiatives cannot resell them.

And by pumping out new models and designs, industries can make our items still feel outdated (even if they’re not). For example, if you have a functional desk but see a new one on sale with a ‘cuter design’ – you may be tempted to buy it just because. This is a marketing tactic – and considered ‘dynamic obesolence.’

is planned obsolescence legal in the US?

Planned obsolescence is legal in the US, and in fact, flourishes here. Manufacturers are free to set the durability level of the products without any repercussions. There’s no end of life considerations – everything is basically designed for the landfill. And very few brands offer takeback programs to recycle their products.

what countries have banned planned obsolescence?

Countries that have banned planned obsolescence include France and Canada.

Here’s examples of legislation they’ve passed:

In 2015, France made it a criminal offense with laws penalizing companies for designing products to fail prematurely, requiring lifespan disclosure and promoting repairability.

In Canada, planned obsolescence is being tackled through landmark provincial legislation in Quebec (Bill 29), banning designs that fail prematurely, mandating repair info, and ensuring part availability.

what can we do to combat planned obsolescence?

Now that you know the problem, you can be part of the solution! We can combat planned obsolescence in a number of ways.

1. choose durable, repairable goods

First and foremost, make sure you’re purchasing goods of the highest quality you can afford.

For clothes, that means choosing organic clothing brands that aren’t made out of cheap, virgin polyester. Some of my clothes are 5+ years old because I simply take care of them – and invested in good brands.

Materials matter. Organic cotton, hemp, and wool are going to last longer than flimsy polyester every time.

The same goes for furniture and electronics. Always buy from a trusted brand and look at their materials before you do.

Are they sourcing their wood ethically? Any take-back programs or recycled materials? Do they have a repair program or warranty? Do your research and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

But whatever you do, avoid ordering from Temu. Lots of their products are low quality and may be toxic.

2. support the right to repair movement

So many companies make it difficult to repair their products. Electronic brands are notorious for this, especially Apple.

This is due to proprietary screws, glued components, soldered parts, and software locks that limit third-party access.

But what if we put pressure on brands to support the right to repair?

Technically, the Right to Repair law did pass in several states – New York, California, Minnesota, Colorado, and Oregon. This means manufactures have to provide parts, tools, and info for repairs.

But we need this all over the country, not just in a few states. Call or write your local representatives and push them to pass it in your state!

3. buy secondhand and refurbished goods

Especially with electronics, it’s always a good idea to buy refurbished if buying new-to-you!

Refurbished basically just means the item was repaired/is secondhand. This gives it a second life. Back Market is a great place to get refurbished tech.

For other items, check thrift or vintage stores first. Things were built so much better in the past.

You can thrift for more than just clothes too – kitchenware, furniture, books – you name it, they have it!

Checking places like Facebook marketplace, or your local buy-nothing group, is also a great idea. Plus you get to connect with like-minded individuals near you!

4. repair and reuse

Most importantly, learn how to repair your items! This goes for all kinds of things, be it clothes, furniture, cars, or electronics.

Self-taught is easy nowadays with free resources like YouTube tutorials, libraries, informative blogs, etc. But don’t hesitate to take a class if you need to (sometimes libraries hold free ones!).

Some tools that will help you repair items include:

Sewing kits

Scrap fabric

Power tools

IFixIt tool kits

You can find a lot of these at discounted prices at thrift stores or reuse stores. I can’t recommend visible mending enough – and learning how to sew a button is SO handy.

These are a few fixes everyone should know how to do. But if you aren’t handy, be sure to find someone who is!

You can take your items to a tailor, cobbler, mechanic, or repairman to get fixed. Or even bring it to a repair cafe. Speaking of…

5. attend or host a repair cafe

Repair cafes are typically held in local libraries or community centers and they’re completely free! It’s a volunteer-run event where people bring household items (think electronics, clothes, bikes, furniture), to be fixed with the help of skilled volunteers.

The goal is to reduce waste, share knowledge, save money and foster community. I recently attended one to repair my chair – but it couldn’t be fixed. Thankfully, the carpenter helping me took it back to her workshop and managed to repair it!

So this is what I mean by building community! Check and see if a repair cafe is happening near you, and if not, organize one with your local library.

6. buy less, maintain often, borrow more

Of course, the best way to reduce planned obesolence is to just buy less. Ask yourself if you really need something before making a purchase. I like to wait 30 days – it helps curb impulse buys!

Don’t forget to take care of the items you already own: Be it sanding and polishing your outdoor furniture, re-upholstering your chairs, or learning to care for your sweaters.

And try borrowing items more if you need them – especially if someone in your circle has it! Ex.: Need a ladder? Ask dad, or a neighbor, before buying a new one.

In the spirit of borrowing, also consider looking into local tool libraries. Or even just your local library – they let you lend out more than just books (think magazines, newspapers, DVDS, and more).

But of course – the most sustainable thing to do is simply using what you have.

So, what are some ways you’re fighting planned obsolescence? Let me know in the comments!

The post What is Planned Obsolescence? +6 Ways to Combat It appeared first on Going Zero Waste.

What is Planned Obsolescence? +6 Ways to Combat It

Green Living

How Toad&Co’s Clothes Help Everyone Enjoy the Outdoors

Published

1 month ago

November 25, 2025

Alice Rush

This is a sponsored article about a brand that was independently assessed by our rigorous ratings system. We’re proud to only collaborate with “Good” and “Great” rated brands. Learn more.

US brand Toad&Co has a socially and environmentally responsible approach to clothing, creating pieces inspired by the outdoors and with a lower impact on the environment. Not to mention an enduring commitment to helping everyone get outdoors through its work with non-profits. Read on to discover the brand’s environment-first ethos.

Focusing on what matters most

“We make feel-good clothes for positive impact—fostering community around doing good, enjoying life’s simple pleasures, and embracing the unexpected,” says Sarah Palladino, director of people and impact at Toad&Co as she introduces the Californian brand. This “simple pleasures” concept applies to Toad&Co’s approach to design, too, and prioritises quality and responsibility over trend-led items. This, in turn, means the brand focuses its energy on clothes that are comfy and practical enough for everything from work to outdoor exploring, and on maintaining its ongoing commitments to using lower-impact materials, partnering with cleaner factories, and looking for new ways to do more with less.

Since day one, it’s been about more than just clothes. From choosing sustainable practices in every corner of our business to supporting programs that protect the planet and make the outdoors more accessible to everyone—knowing we stand for more is what keeps us going

Gordon Seabury – CEO at Toad&Co

Lower-impact materials and producer responsibility

Opting for lower impact materials is one of the core ways brands can address their impact on the planet: “Sustainable materials make a world of difference,” Toad&Co says. “We use organic cotton, recycled fibres, and other high-quality materials known for low-impact growing and cleaner manufacturing.”

The brand’s selection of more sustainable materials includes organic cotton, hemp, TENCEL Lyocell, and recycled fabrics like wool, cotton, and polyester. It also looks to third party clothing certifications like bluesign®, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, and Global Organic Textile Standard, and it publishes its list of restricted substances for all to see.

Toad&Co also operates a resale platform, called ToadAgain, online and at its IRL store in Maine, US, to keep its clothes in the loop.

Supporting non-profits and access to the outdoors

Toad&Co donates 1% of its profits to organisations working to empower others and, in particular, enable better access to the outdoors for all.

In 1996, Toad&Co partnered with Search, Inc. to co-found the Planet Access Company, a full-functioning warehouse that trained and employed up to 70 adults with disabilities annually.

Determined not to stop at the front door, the brand also co-founded Search for Adventure in 2004, a unique travel program to facilitate vacations for adults with disabilities. Over 20 years later, the social venture partnership has evolved—and includes a flagship store in Chicago, a program called Visibility Arts that nurtures creativity through sharing Search, Inc. artist’s work, neurodiversity and disability awareness training, and an expanded Search for Adventure program. In 2024, the brand supported 147 nights of camping for adults with disabilities through the program.

We give back to—and partner with—organisations that align with our three pillars of giving: conservation for human enjoyment, equity and accessibility, and do the right thing

Sarah Palladino – director of people and impact at Toad&Co

One of Toad&Co’s key partnerships is with Brave Trails, which is dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth leadership, to support it in putting on accredited camps, mentorship programs, and meet-ups for LGBTQ+ youth.

Shop favourites from Toad&Co’s new collection

Read on to discover some of the standout items that balance style with practicality from Toad&Co’s lineup.

Merino Heartfelt Hoodie

Woven with a beautiful alpine jacquard pattern, this hoodie is made from non-mulesed Merino wool and features pockets at the sides. It’s ideal as a mid-layer under a longer coat when you’re out exploring, or as a cosy item for grabbing a post-walk hot chocolate.

person wearing white knitted alpineglo jumper from toad&co

Alpineglo Sweater

This Alpineglo sweater is a blend of 50% organic cotton and 50% non-mulesed Merino wool, so it’s going to help regulate your temperature in most climates. On top of that, the neutral tone and straight fit make it really versatile—you’ll be reaching for it on the regular.

printed floral chaka trousers from Toad&co

Chaka Wide-Leg Trousers

Toad&Co calls these cropped trousers “sweatpant comfortable, going-out presentable”, which makes sense, given they’re made with organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell for softness and have a comfortable wide waistband, not to mention a pretty floral pattern.

people wearing reversible nomader jacket from toad&co

Nomader Reversible Jacket

This Nomader jacket is reversible, packable, and water-resistant. In other words, it’s the ideal item to take with you for outdoor adventures. It’s made from recycled nylon and lightly quilted for warmth.

person wearing printed padded manzana jacket from toad&co

Manzana Quilted Jacket

Toad&Co picked the crepe-like organic cotton for this jacket so that you could fold it away in a bag and have it still look presentable when you pull it out. It’s also packed with recycled polyester padding for extra warmth.

Balsam Cutoff Trousers

These Balsam Trousers are made with a tiny bit of stretch and a special waistband for comfort, so they’ll flex with you and feel good all the time. The neutral brown colour also goes with so many options.

Kennicott Shirt Jacket

Going from a walk to dinner? From the office to drinks? This Kennicott shirt jacket fits the bill for all of the above. The smart twill fabric incorporates recycled Italian wool.

Airsmyth Shirt

This is Toad&Co’s Re-Form Herringbone: a blend of recycled cotton and polyester that offers a soft drape and an attractive herringbone weave that looks smarter than the average checked shirt.

Balsam 5-Pocket Trousers

Like the women’s equivalent, these Balsam trousers have a touch of stretch and a comfortable ‘FlexForm’ waistband that mean they’re going to feel comfortable from the get-go—and you won’t need to worry about a belt, either.

Discover more of Toad&Co’s clothes.

The post How Toad&Co’s Clothes Help Everyone Enjoy the Outdoors appeared first on Good On You.

How Toad&Co’s Clothes Help Everyone Enjoy the Outdoors

Green Living

50 DIY Christmas Presents Anyone Can Make

Published

1 month ago

November 21, 2025

Alice Rush

Last Updated on November 21, 2025

If you’re on the handmade Christmas kick this year, you’re not alone. So am I!

I’m choosing presence over presents this year and bringing back the 90s Christmas I loved as a kid – simple, crafty, low pressure, and full of small moments that feel meaningful.

If you want to gift thoughtfully, and without breaking the bank, these DIY Christmas presents are for you. There’s something for everyone on this list – whether you prefer easy or complex DIYs.

I’ve included all kinds of DIYs – beauty, cooking, fashion, and practical gifts alike. Best of all? Many of these tutorials are zero waste (or close to it).

what are good homemade Christmas gifts?

Good homemade Christmas gifts include consumable items, like homemade nut butters, vanilla extract, or jams. But not all homemade gifts are edible – you can also make items like bath bombs, candles, body scrubs, beeswax wraps, and so much more.

If you’re extra crafty, you could even make wooden gifts (like shelving or tablet holders), ceramic items (like mugs or jewelry), or knitted/crocheted pieces (like blankets, scarves or hats).

It all depends on your level of skill, time at your disposal, and ingredients/materials you have access to.

50 DIY Christmas Presents Anyone Can Make

what are good inexpensive Christmas gifts?

Some good inexpensive Christmas gifts are DIY cornstarch ornaments, handmade body or lip scrub, seasoned salt blends, and homemade treats (like these chocolate chip cookies or vegan sugar cookies).

And never forget to hit up your local thrift store – you can find so many great items that would make affordable gift baskets!

Wrapping DIY Christmas gifts also doesn’t have to be expensive. Reusing gift bags and ribbons from last year, upcycling packaging paper, or even repurposing a scarf for furoshiki wrap are all low-waste and affordable!

how can I make a last minute gift?

You can make a last minute gift by getting crafty using the materials you have on hand!

For example, if you have a cardboard box, why not try making an upcycled cardboard dollhouse, vehicle, or pirate ship for a child? For adults, a DIY storage container or a shoe rack works.

One of my fav last minute gifts is scented bath salts in an upcycled glass jar – just a little Epsom salt and essential oil blends will do the trick!

Here’s my list of DIY Christmas gifts – something for everyone and every skill level.