Three Tips On How To Shop For "Good" Quality Clothing

I’ll be honest, I have grown up obsessing over the latest fast fashion trends and spent most of my adolescent years purchasing cheap clothing from brands, buying more clothes than I really needed. I wanted to own the hottest trend.. 

It wasn't till recently that I’ve begun to understand the concept of quality over quantity when it comes to  shopping for clothes and why making sustainable choices really matter. The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of wastewater. Fashion alone utilizes more energy than the shipping and aviation industries put together and don’t forget the trillions of microplastics that are released into the ocean every time we wash our clothes.

Let’s ask ourselves, why do we need clothes that don’t even last after a handful of washes? This use and throw culture of fast fashion not only makes us spend more every few months on new clothes, but adds to the overflowing landfills as more and more clothes are being discarded. This is why it is so essential to shop sustainably and buy good quality clothing that lasts longer. But how do we identify clothing that is of good quality? Well we’ve got your back, here are our  3 simple tips that will help you pick the right clothes that are sustainable and of good quality.

1. Opt  Better Quality Fabrics
   
   It goes without saying that the choice of fabric is the foremost step in determining the quality of the clothes we buy. No matter how cute a dress is or how trendy a top is, if it is made of low quality fabric it will not last for long and will most definitely take years to biodegrade. Natural fabrics that are ethically sourced and do not use harmful chemicals and dyes are not just good for the planet but also guarantee an unmatched quality. The key is to look for midweight fabrics as opposed to flimsy fabrics, and tighter woven fabrics which will last longer and won’t fall apart after just a few washes.
   
   All products at The Good Tee are made with 100% organic cotton that is Fairtrade certified. Organic cotton doesn’t damage the soil and has less impact on air quality. To be certified organic, cotton needs to be produced and certified to organic agricultural standards. Organic cotton farming does not allow the use of toxic chemicals or GMOs. When you choose The Good Tee you contribute to the health of our air, earth, and oceans, while helping people like our farmers prosper, plus you are buying tees made of durable and good quality fabric.
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Buy Clothing That Fits You
   
   

   Another important aspect to take note of while shopping for quality clothing is of course the fit of the clothes. Clothes should not only be of the right size but also fit the occasion. It’s so easy for us to indulge in that dress which looks oh so good on that mannequin, and we do end up buying clothes that either are too dressy or not as comfortable as we would like, or worse, they go out of style too soon. This becomes the primary reason for  fast fashion clothes being discarded way too soon. Instead, shop for timeless and classic styles that are comfortable, fit well and can be worn for various different occasions.

   
    
3. Is it Sewn to Perfection?
   
   

   We can’t stress enough on this point, a good quality garment has to be sewn perfectly.Look for strong seams, reinforced buttons, good quality zippers, buckles and snaps. Make sure that overall finish of the fabric and stitching is stronger. Are the materials used flimsy? Does the fabric fall well? Touch and feel the garment, try it on, and ask yourself whether it is something that will last you a long time to come. Invest in something that elevates your style and personality, and remember you deserve the best.Check for these basics before you buy. We at The Good Tee make sure that our clothes are made with precision and care by our amazing team at our factories. Yes, all our clothes are made by real people by hand and we’re proud of the quality they produce.
   
   

    

   
   
   

   Would you keep these tips in behind before your next shopping spree? Is there something we missed? Tell us in the comments below. Happy quality shopping!