Is it possible to shop ethically on a budget?

The conversation of ethical shopping has been buzzing lately. Documentaries like The True Cost are hitting Netflix and spreading the word about how our clothes are really made, and people are starting to question shopping at the big box stores. “Ethical shopping” refers to clothing, accessories, homewares and more than are made in good working conditions that pay employees fair wages. Unfortunately, ethical shopping is not as easy as it should be. Buying ethically costs more and can be harder to find locally.

If ethical shopping has been on your mind lately, we’re here to tell you it IS possible to shop ethically and still balance your budget. It may be a little harder to sought out, but we’ve put together some tips that will get the ball rolling towards an ethical closet you can be proud of.

Buy Basics Handmade

Buying items that are handmade allows you to put a face to the name of the seller. You can be confident knowing your cash is going right in the pocket of the designer, and often handmade clothes are of much higher quality. Handmade clothing and goods may be a little more difficult to source, but checking out local farmer’s markets is a great start. A quick Google search can expose you to a whole new world of handmade clothing. There’s online marketplaces specifically designed to provide you with handmade options, and peer-to-peer markets like Curbza allow artisans to sell their goods online without a handling fee.

Shopping for handmade items isn’t our most affordable tip, but it’s worth noting. Handmade items are unique and are high quality, which means they’re going to last much longer. For basic, timeless clothing or homewares, buying handmade is worth it in the long run. Over time, you’ll actually save money because you’re choosing quality.

Clothing Swaps

If you’re fresh out of cash but want to overhaul your wardrobe, clothing swaps are a great way to get some fresh pieces and declutter your own closet. In-person clothing swaps are often organized by people who are passionate about thrifting, but if it’s too hard to gather your crew together for a night of shopping each other’s closets, you can assemble it online. Curbza’s networks let you create a private network for just you and your friends. Create a network called “Clothing Swap” and get all your friends on board. Everyone can take photos of the pieces they’re offering, then you can chat within the app to claim what you know you need, and give new life to the stuff in your closet you never wear. No cash required!

Shop second-hand

Sure, this one is simple, but shopping second-hand is a huge way to make a big impact. When you shop second-hand, no matter what the brand you’re purchasing, you’re putting money back into the local economy and reducing consumption. It also doesn’t hurt that second-hand shopping will save you a ton of cash. Log onto Curbza and check out the new items in your area. Start posting your old stuff for sale and make some cash to shop with. Encourage your friends to post their clutter in your area so you can all start shopping ethically together.

Follow Blogs That Inspire

There are plenty of bloggers out there committed to making ethical shopping more accessible. If you’re having trouble getting into the groove, get inspired by our favorite bloggers who are passionate about second-hand shopping and ethical purchasing.

Leafable is a great source for second-hand shopping tips. This blog in particular touches on ethical shopping barriers and how to tackle them.

My New Neighbour will help you adopt ethical shopping habits. They’re based out of Calgary, Canada and are passionate about conscious shopping. Here’s their take on why ethical shopping is important.

Ethically Emma calls herself a “slow fashion enthusiast” and claims to be no expert, but learning along the way. Us too! Here, she explains how you can shop ethically even if you think you can’t afford it.

What do you find is the biggest barrier when shopping ethically, or how do you overcome those barriers? Let us know in the comments down below.