Ethical and stylish at the same time! A selection guide that you can stick to even on a busy day

Many people are interested in ethical fashion and sustainable products, but wonder, "Can I really find something stylish?" or "In the end, it's likely to end up looking rather dull."

However, in reality, ethics and fashion are not in conflict. Rather, items that have genuine appeal and can be loved for a long time are what lead to true ethical consumption.

This time, we will introduce three criteria to help you choose ethical products without getting lost. We will also show you how to choose items that are easy to wear every day and don't compromise on your fashion sense.

Criterion 1: Design is the main focus. Ethics are considered an added bonus.

When choosing ethical products, do you compromise just because they are "environmentally friendly"?

The most important prerequisite for a truly long-lasting product is that it has a beautiful design. Being ethical is an added value that further enhances its appeal.

The first criterion is whether or not you are attracted by appearance.

The most important thing is whether the item is something you want to reach for when you open your closet.

For example, bags made from traditional African textiles. Their vibrant colors and bold patterns make them the focal point of any outfit. The natural texture of sisal bags makes them versatile and easy to coordinate with both casual summer styles and more sophisticated outfits.

Instead of thinking, "It can't be helped because it's ethical," think, "I chose it because it's nice, and it's ethical too," and you'll naturally find something you can use and cherish for a long time.

A timeless appeal that is not influenced by trends

In contrast to fast fashion that follows trends, ethical items have timeless appeal.

Traditional designs like geometric African prints and hand-woven basket bags never go out of style, no matter how many years pass. In fact, the more you use them, the more they develop their own unique character, and you can enjoy watching them grow into something uniquely yours.

Criterion 2: Emphasis on practicality that fits into everyday life

No matter how great an item is, if it's difficult to use, it will end up sleeping in the back of your closet.

To continue making ethical choices, it is essential that products are easy to use and convenient in everyday life.

Balance of size and functionality

When choosing a tote bag, choose one that is appropriate for the amount of luggage you usually carry. If you carry documents or a laptop, a horizontal A4 size bag is convenient, while a compact vertical bag is convenient for short trips.

Ease of care is also an important point. If you are buying a bag made from natural materials, it is a good idea to check whether it can be wiped or washed easily when it gets dirty.

Versatility for any occasion

Rather than choosing items that are "only for casual wear" or "only suitable for formal occasions," it is wise to choose items that can be used in any situation.

For example, a simple fair trade T-shirt can be worn casually with jeans, and it also looks great paired with nice pants or skirts.It's a versatile item that can be worn at a beer garden or a casual party, and will be useful for a long time.

A design that can be used across seasons

Rather than choosing items that can only be used in the summer or are for winter only, choose items that can be used for a long season depending on how you layer and coordinate them.

Sisal bags are often associated with summer, but by combining them with leather handles and accessories, you can create a natural look that can be worn all year round. Cotton T-shirts can also be worn as an inner layer under a jacket, making them suitable for spring and autumn.

Criterion 3: Can you relate to the story?

The big appeal of ethical products is the story behind them.

Who made it, where did it come from, and how did it come about? Items that tell a story are more valuable than just being "things."

The peace of mind of seeing the face of the maker

Many fair trade products have systems in place to support the livelihoods of their producers, such as bags made from fabric sold by people living in the floating slum of Makoko in Nigeria, and sisal bags woven by artisans in Kenya.

When I pick up these items, I can picture the makers living in faraway countries. I know I am supporting their lives and helping to preserve traditional techniques. This makes using them every day a joy.

Experience the creativity of upcycling

Upcycling, which breathes new life into discarded materials, is a treasure trove of creative ideas.

It's not just recycling, but taking advantage of the unique characteristics of the original materials and transforming them into completely new and attractive products. Seeing the ingenuity of the designs and the skills of the artisans gives you a sense of the profound depth of manufacturing.

Connecting with your values

Ethical consumption is also an act of expressing what you value.

Environmental protection, fair trade, preserving traditional culture... By making choices that align with the values ​​you want to support for the future, your shopping will become more meaningful.

It can also be a conversation starter. When someone compliments you on a bag, you can share the story behind it, rather than simply saying "thank you." This kind of communication is one of the joys of ethical items.

Don't make ethical things special

When you hear the term ethical consumption, you might think it's something that only conscious people do, or that it seems like a high hurdle to overcome.

But in reality, it's a more natural and comfortable choice.

There's no need to force yourself to make everything ethical. First, choose things that you really like and that you think you can use for a long time. If you happen to come across an item with an ethical background, choose that.

That casual stance is enough.

Fashion and ethics: not giving up on either

Fashion is an important way to express yourself, so you definitely don't want to compromise on how you look.

At the same time, try to be a little more conscious of the impact your choices have on society and the environment. Balancing these two may be the key to a richer lifestyle in the future.

Use the three criteria we introduced today as a reference and try enjoying ethical fashion that suits you.

Discovering wonderful items is sure to make your everyday life more enjoyable.

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