I recently received this set from Girlfriend Collective (that I’ve been wanting for years… really, ever since I first discovered them I’d been wanting to buy a set!) and I’m even more in love with it than I thought I would be. Aside from the fact that Girlfriend uses recycled materials processed in a government certified factory in Taiwan which are then sent to a factory in Vietnam that employs ethical and transparent practices to be sewn, they look at every step of their manufacturing process and know the environmental impact they make (hint: it’s minimal). They also have a LITE line in which they make recycled nylon from discarded fishing nets and other waste that would otherwise end up in the ocean!
I’m wearing the Compressive High-Rise Legging in the 7/8 length and the Topanga Bra, both made from recycled water bottles. I took my typical regular size but I’d say if you’re between sizes to size down. I tend to favor a small in leggings but these are an extra small and I think a small would have been too big. I’m also wearing an XS in the bra and I think it fits me really well. I definitely want another set as these are honestly my favorite I’ve ever tried (yes, I’ve tried LuLu Lemon and no, they are not considered a sustainable brand) and I also really love these bike shorts, and the Paloma bra, and my favorite colors are Moss, Plum, and Midnight!
The care instructions say to wash in cold water and air dry but I’ve done my share of research in caring for garments using recycled materials (and really any material that’s made of plastic) and washing it can release micro plastics into your water supply and add to water pollution. It’s actually kind of scary- if you aren’t aware of any of this, I highly encourage you to do your own research. So, I bought a Guppyfriend to filter any micro plastics when I do my laundry. I haven’t used it yet but I will report back once I do!
I’ve been making a conscious effort to reduce my impact, create a healthier environment for myself and my family, and to live and shop more sustainably for the past few years but this is the first year I’ve really started concentrating on only purchasing sustainable clothing, too. It can be kind of challenging at times, particularly because many of my favorite sites make it somewhat difficult to sort sustainable vs. non sustainable brands, but I’m committed now! Slow fashion really is a lifestyle and it can take some getting used to. That’s not to say that I gave away everything in my closet that wasn’t eco-friendly (I didn’t) or that I don’t buy things here and there that aren’t made by sustainable brands (I do) but I’m very conscious of it now. Still looking for a good kids’ line, though! You can find many brand on Good on You and find their environmental impact!
Leggings: Girlfriend Collective c/o Bra: Girlfriend Collective c/o
What are some things you’re doing to live a more sustainable life and reduce your carbon footprint? I’d love to know 🙂 By sharing what we’re doing we can all learn a little bit more from each other (& it’s nice to have some extra support, too!)! I wrote a post on what I’m doing and what I want to work on here, compiled some of my favorite sustainable brands here, and created tabs under “Shop” for “Sustainable Style,” Clean Beauty,” and “Eco-friendly Products” or you can read more by clicking “Categories” and then “Green Living,” if you’re interested! And, as always, please let me know if there’s anything you want to see or if there’s anything you’re looking for in particular!
