As we wrap up the final week of our Know Your Sportswear campaign, we’ve learned so much about the sportswear industry—both the good and the bad. But simply knowing isn’t enough if we want to see real change.
The key now is to take action.
And sure, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the influence and reach of big brands, especially when it seems like they control the narrative. But here’s the thing: history has consistently shown that real change starts at the grassroots level. When enough individuals get together, their collective voice can challenge even the biggest players.
Keep reading to see how you can help shape a more sustainable sportswear industry.
Get Involved in the Movement
There’s something truly magical about being part of a community that shares your values.
I have been a part of Slow Fashion Movement for over three years, and during this time I have found kindred spirits to vent about issues close to my heart, create change locally, and dream up big ideas for a better future.
Transforming the fashion industry takes time, energy, and a lot of empathy. That’s why having a support system to cheer you on makes all the difference.
The first step in creating change is education. Learning about the issues within the sportswear industry helps you make informed choices and empowers you to become a stronger advocate for slow fashion. And lucky for you, we’ve spent the past few weeks doing just that. Check out our blog and Instagram posts to learn about everything from sportswear materials and production practices to the latest in sustainable innovations—and beyond! The more we know, the more power we have to push for meaningful change.
As you educate yourself, you can start raising awareness and inspiring others. Share the knowledge you’ve gained about the environmental impact of synthetic fabrics, the importance of ethical labor practices, and the benefits of sustainable alternatives. Use your voice on social media to spread awareness through infographics, facts, or personal stories. Engaging in discussions online, writing blog posts, or simply having conversations in your circle can influence others to think more critically about their purchasing choices.
But don’t stop at sharing online—getting involved in events and campaigns is a fantastic way to amplify your message. Join webinars, attend online workshops, or participate in initiatives like Slow Fashion Season.
Feeling inspired? Organize your own events!
Host a virtual talk, lead a local clothing swap, or arrange an upcycling workshop to unite your community. Taking action locally helps raise awareness, promotes slow fashion practices, and shows that even small, grassroots movements can drive big changes.
Make Conscious Consumer Choices
There’s been a lot of talk about sustainability in fashion over the past decade. Yet when we look at the industry, we don’t see the significant changes we’d expect.
If everyone claims to be a slow fashion advocate, why do fast fashion giants consistently rake in record profits while smaller, ethical brands struggle to stay afloat?
This disconnect is often referred to as the Saying-Doing Gap. A phenomenon highlighted through a survey by Harvard Business Review, which found that while 65% consumers said they want to buy purpose-driven brands that advocate sustainability, only 26% actually follow through. This creates a false sense of progress on sustainability, while the underlying issues persist.
I get it—life gets busy, and even with the best intentions, it’s not always easy to make sustainable choices. But if we want to see true progress, it’s essential to choose wisely and shop consciously.
The good news is that there are practical and simple ways to be more conscious about how we shop. Here are some tips to help you start small but make a big difference.
- Support Ethical Brands:
When shopping for ethical sportswear, seek out brands that prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices. This can include having a traceable supply chain, plastic-free packaging, certifications, third-party verifications, eco-friendly materials, and fair wages and treatment for workers.
Also, be cautious of greenwashing. Spot the difference by looking for specific sustainability claims rather than vague buzzwords like “eco-friendly” or “green.” Make sure the brand provides clear details on how they reduce waste, conserve water, or implement other eco-conscious practices. Supporting these businesses encourages others to adopt similar practices, contributing to a broader industry shift.
- Buy Less, Choose Well:
Instead of constantly buying trendy items that wear out quickly, focus on investing in high-quality sportswear that lasts longer. When you opt for fewer, well-made pieces, you’re not only reducing waste but also getting more value for your money. Check out this Cost-Per-Wear calculator to help you invest in quality pieces that will stand the test of time.
- Look for Sustainable Materials:
When it comes to sportswear, popular materials like polyester, nylon, and spandex might have the durability and stretch we love, but they’re not exactly eco-friendly. Most are petroleum-based, which means a lot of energy and water go into their production, not to mention the microplastics they shed with every wash. If you’re looking for more sustainable options, try recycled polyester (made from plastic bottles!), or organic cotton, which skips the harmful pesticides. Other great picks are TENCEL™—sourced from wood pulp in a closed-loop process—and merino wool, a natural, biodegradable option. Look for certifications like GRS (Global Recycled Standard) and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) to help guide your choices.
- Buy Second-Hand:
Thrifting gives perfectly good sportswear a second life, reducing demand for new items and cutting down on the resources needed to produce new gear. Plus, second-hand shopping can often lead to discovering high-quality, unique items at a fraction of the price. Many online platforms now offer great options for buying pre-loved sportswear, so it’s easier than ever to shop sustainably.
Here are some places to get started: ThredUp, Play It Again Sports, Patagonia Worn Wear.
- Participate in Clothing Swaps:
Looking to refresh your sportswear wardrobe without splurging on new gear? Try organizing or joining a clothing swap! It’s a fun way to exchange items you no longer wear for something “new” to you, while keeping clothes in circulation and out of landfills. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others in your community who share your passion for sustainability.
Collaborate with Ethical Brands and Influencers
Say what you will about the harms of social media, but no one can deny its power to bring people together for positive change. Whether you’re an activist, an entrepreneur, a creative, or just curious, platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become powerful tools for connecting and driving action on important causes.
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to make a difference is by engaging with brands directly and sharing your thoughts on their products and practices. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about how they source their materials, treat their workers, and what steps they’re taking to minimize their environmental impact. This kind of dialogue encourages brands to hold themselves accountable.
You can also think about starting community-driven projects in partnership with these brands, like organizing local clean-up events or recycling drives.
If you’re an influencer, you have a unique opportunity to shape how people view fashion and encourage them to embrace slow fashion. By showcasing sustainable sportswear options and inspiring your followers to make more thoughtful choices, you can help change the conversation around fast fashion.
But if you’re not an influencer, don’t worry! You can still make a difference by supporting and engaging with influencers who prioritize sustainability. Your involvement can spread the word about responsible consumption and encourage others to also join the movement.
Pledge to Make a Difference
All this talk about sustainable materials, ethical production, and responsible consumption, can feel like a lot to handle. And sometimes it’s the simplest actions that lead to the biggest changes.
So, why not try our Slow Fashion Season (SFS) pledge?
Take a three-month break from fast fashion and give yourself the opportunity to reflect on your shopping habits while discovering more sustainable options along the way. Invite your friends to pledge too.
And don’t forget to share your journey on social media!
Written by Shahmeen Lalani
