Why Does Organic Clothing Matter?
Sustainability is a term that has been gaining prominence within fashion circles. We spend a lot of money on clothes, but many consumers are unaware of the production process that creates them.
Many choose to ignore or remain oblivious to where their clothes are sourced from. However, this has slowly begun to change, with an increased awareness of the damage of farming methods for clothing materials. One of the latest trends in clothing right now involves organic sourcing that is far more sustainable and better for the environment as a whole.
But why does organic clothing matter, and what does the future hold for this type of sustainable clothing? In this article, we will answer that question and explore why everyone should start paying more attention to organic clothing.
What is Organic Clothing?
Organic clothing is made from materials that are grown by organic agriculture standards. This means that there is no use of fertilizers or pesticides. Additionally, nothing is genetically modified. Organic clothing respects the environment, and it provides a more sustainable way of producing clothing.
It is made from materials that are raised and grown by organic agriculture standards. There are a variety of organic materials, which include cotton, hemp, wool, and silk.
Origins of Organic Clothing
Organic clothing is not an entirely new concept. In previous centuries, organic cotton was the norm. Scientists have even found evidence that cotton was being woven into the fabric as far back as 4000 years ago in India and Central/South America. The cloth used to be a luxury item that only the very wealthy could afford. For the majority of its history, cotton was grown organically.
It is only in the last 50 years that cotton production has led to the use of insecticides, pesticides, fungicides, and fertilizers. There is a growing movement for more of this cotton to return to natural organic methods. The demand for organic materials continues to increase, which means that we may soon be returning to these original methods.
How Does Organic Clothing Differ from Regular Clothing?
Organic clothing differs from regular clothing in several ways. Below, we will go through some of the key differences that set these two apart. The main difference is that organic materials are not treated with any pesticides, fertilizers, or chemicals. Additionally, no GMO crops are used in organic clothing.
Organic clothing also protects the ecological balance, whereas the standard process tends to cause irreversible damage to the soil. Overall, organic clothing is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to regular clothing.
Benefits of Organic Clothing
There are many benefits to organic clothing, and many influential fashion personalities are quickly discovering these. Below, we will go through the main reasons you should opt for organic clothing.
1. It is Environmentally Friendly
The key benefit of organic clothing is that it is eco-friendly. Organic cotton production uses far fewer chemicals, and it also uses less carbon due to lower consumption. Overall, it is far better for the environment to produce organic cotton rather than the standard type.
The chemical-free production also ensures that there is no risk of water contamination. It is also more sustainable since it helps maintain soil fertility. Excessive fertilizers in the standard cotton production process contribute to irreversible soil damage that wrecks the environment.
2. More Beneficial for Producers
We often forget about the producers and farmers who help create the materials for the clothes we wear every day. Another significant benefit of organic clothing is providing better conditions and wages for farmers and producers. The organic market is tightly regulated compared to regular clothing in which states can be poor, and the work can even be dangerous.
The organic production methods also mean that farmers and producers are exposed to far fewer fertilizers and chemicals, which can be hazardous for their health. The result is happier workers who are likely to be healthier due to growing organic rather than the typical source.
3. No Chemicals
However, farmers are not the only ones to benefit from a lack of chemicals. Cotton remains one of the most sprayed crops. This means that the clothes you wear are made from a material subject to heavy use of pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.
These chemicals can then come in contact with your skin. This can cause allergic reactions and other health problems. With organic clothing, those with skin concerns no longer have to worry since organic cotton does not have any chemicals. Heavy chemical use is common for regular clothing; however, it is entirely absent in organic clothing.
4. Cheaper to Produce
Organic clothing is cheaper to produce for several reasons. Firstly, the lack of fertilizer and chemicals is more affordable. But, the seeds are also organic instead of being processed.
Genetically modified seeds tend to be more expensive. The lack of chemicals also means that expensive storage facilities are not required. Overall, the entire production is more sustainable and less costly.
5. Lasts Longer
Organic clothing tends to be more durable, and it lasts longer when compared to typical clothing. Hemp materials and organic cotton materials are considered to be highly durable. The lack of chemicals means that the material lasts far longer.
This means you get better value for money, and you can enjoy the clothing for a more extended time. Sustainability is a significant aspect of organic clothing, and you can get far more use out of it.
6. Feels Better on Skin
Organic clothing feels softer and generally more comfortable. It is hard to describe in words, but it feels better on the skin and holds much better than regular clothing. There are a certain premium and luxurious feeling that is missing within typical clothing. Wearing organic is definitely noticeable to your body and skin.
You also won’t need to worry about any itching or scratching. Organic clothing is a fantastic choice for those who have allergies or skin irritation issues.
7. It is More Stylish
Organic clothing is the major trend right now, and some of the brightest minds in fashion are focusing exclusively on organic. This leads to more creative and innovative pieces that are far more unique than typical fast-fashion pieces made from traditional materials.
Organic clothing is set to become even more prominent in the coming years, and the trend is definitely with this type of clothing. Consumers and influencers alike are becoming more conscious about their choice of material, which will reflect more significantly in future fashion releases.
8. Helps People Become More Eco-Responsible
Organic clothing helps to spread awareness about the larger problems in the environment. It can often be the first step in becoming more responsible for the climate footprint they are leaving behind. It also forces consumers to think more critically about their clothing sources, forcing them to consider sustainability.
Organic clothing has the power to slowly but surely make us more responsible consumers and takes responsibility for our impact on the earth.
Future of Organic Clothing
The future looks promising for organic clothing. The focus on sustainability is set to increase even further in the forthcoming decade, and organic clothing is set to play a crucial role. Organic cotton is in high demand, with production and trade increasing every year.
Additionally, the infrastructure to create organic cotton is constantly expanding. As a result, many retailers have begun re-releasing their popular fashion lines in an organic clothing variant. Unfortunately, most shoppers are unaware of the heavy chemical use in their clothes.
However, this looks likely to change shortly. This will lead to people opting for clothing made with ethical and responsible practices and a lack of any chemicals.
These materials are more sustainable, which will increase their popularity as citizens become more eco-responsible. 2020 will be the decade where a sustainable future becomes the priority, and organic clothing looks to be at the forefront.
You will now have a much better understanding of organic clothing and know the key reasons it is so important. We expect organic clothing to become much more mainstream in the upcoming decade as people become more conscious of their fashion choices. You can start making a change right now by being more considerate of your fashion buying choices. When you buy organic clothing, you help protect the environment while ensuring that the producers are paid a fair living to work in good conditions.