10 tips to celebrate in style while protecting the planet

In today’s world, celebrations do not only mean joy and togetherness; It’s also an opportunity to think about how our choices affect the planet. With increasing awareness of environmental issues, many people are looking for ways to celebrate in style without compromising their values. With the rise of sustainable fashion and accessories, it’s easier than ever to make eco-friendly choices without compromising on aesthetics.

Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding, party or festival, here are 10 tips from Anuradha Chandrasekar, Co-Founder of ICH Creative Consulting, on how you can capture the festive spirit while protecting the planet.

1. Sustainable Fabrics for Winning: Choosing clothing made from sustainable fabrics is a great first step towards eco-friendly fashion. Look for pieces made from recycled materials such as organic cotton, viscose or vegan silk, bamboo, Tencel, hemp or polyester made from plastic bottles. Not only do these fabrics have a lower environmental impact, they are also generally softer and more breathable, providing comfort while dazzling at your event.

2. Timeless Pieces on Fast Fashion: Instead of succumbing to fast fashion for one-off event outfits, invest in timeless, versatile pieces that can be styled in different ways. Classic silhouettes like an elegant shawl suit set, a well-designed column fit or a stylish, traditionally woven silk saree can be worn at multiple events with subtle adjustments to the draping style or accessories. Sarees particularly win the idea with their six-yard elegance that can be styled in over 100 different ways and easily transformed into a completely new outfit!

3. Rental Fashion: Borrow, Don’t Buy: One of the best ways to enjoy stylish clothes without contributing to fashion waste is to rent your clothes. Whether it’s a stunning dress, sari, stylish tuxedo or a unique statement piece, rental platforms offer a wide range of high-quality, designer clothing at a fraction of the price. This allows you to look gorgeous without buying new clothes that can only be worn once.

4. Accessorize with Sustainability in Mind: Choose jewelry made from recycled metals, wood and silk, ethically sourced gemstones or handmade pieces from artisans. For purses and handbags, look for sustainable alternatives made from vegan leather, cork or upcycled handbags made from saris and manufacturing waste.

5. Vintage and Secondhand Treasures: Vintage shopping is a great way to find unique, stylish pieces while reducing fashion’s environmental impact. Buying second-hand not only extends the life of clothing and accessories, but also gives you access to classic, high-quality items with a story behind them.

6. Upcycling and Repurposing: Freshen up your existing wardrobe by repurposing old pieces into something new. A skilled seamstress can transform an outdated dress into a trendy two-piece or transform a traditional outfit into a modern silhouette.

7. Take Care of What You Have: Sustainable fashion doesn’t stop with purchasing eco-friendly products; The important thing is to value what you have. Extend the life of your clothes and accessories by taking care of them properly. Hand wash delicate fabrics, avoid overwashing, and store your accessories appropriately to prevent damage. Investing in quality items and maintaining them with care will make your wardrobe last longer, reduce the need for new purchases and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

8. Eco-Friendly Decor: The era of single-use plastic decorations is over. Consider eco-friendly alternatives like biodegradable streamers, plantable confetti, or natural elements like flowers and greenery to decorate your venue. Reusable or recyclable materials, such as fabric banners and paper lanterns, can bring style and appeal while reducing waste. Handmade or upcycled decor can add a personalized touch that’s good for the planet.

9. Mindful Gift Giving: Gift giving can also be sustainable. Encourage your guests to bring eco-friendly gifts like reusable items, plants, or experiences instead of physical items. If you’re hosting a large event, consider creating a registry focused on sustainable or ethical brands. Alternatively, for a meaningful way to celebrate, ask guests to contribute to a cause you care about, such as tree planting or charitable donations.

10. Responsible Waste Management: Celebrations often lead to waste, but with a little planning you can minimize the impact. Set up clearly labeled recycling and compost stations to help your guests dispose of waste responsibly. Reduce plastic waste by offering reusable or biodegradable cups, plates and utensils. Encourage your caterers to package leftover food in eco-friendly containers, or better yet, provide guests with reusable containers so they can take any excess food home.

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Solution: When shopping, think quality over quantity; Choosing pieces that can last for years, be re-worn or upcycled is a sustainable move that never goes out of style. Sustainable fashion is not just a trend, it is a lifestyle choice. So whether it’s a wedding, Diwali party, birthday or holiday gathering, you can celebrate knowing you’re leaving a lighter footprint on the Earth while enjoying every moment with flourish.