Introduction to Sustainable Fashion in India

In today’s world, sustainable fashion has become a buzzword, and for good reason. As we become more aware of the environmental and social impacts of our choices, it’s essential to apply this awareness to all aspects of our lives, including our fashion choices. In India, where fashion is a significant part of the culture, there’s a growing movement towards sustainable wardrobe choices. One key decision in this pursuit of sustainability is whether to rent or purchase clothing. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both options to help you make an informed choice.

Renting: A Sustainable Wardrobe Solution

Reduced Environmental Impact

Renting clothing significantly reduces the environmental footprint associated with fashion. The production of textiles, dyeing processes, and transportation all contribute to pollution and resource depletion. By renting, you extend the life of garments and reduce the need for constant production.

Cost-Effective

Renting is often more cost-effective than purchasing high-end clothing. It allows you to access designer and luxury fashion at a fraction of the price. In a country as diverse as India, where special occasions are frequent, renting can be an economical choice for those who don’t want to invest in expensive clothing they might wear infrequently.

Variety and Trends

Fashion trends come and go, and renting offers the flexibility to experiment with different styles without committing to a long-term purchase. This variety allows you to express your personal style without contributing to the problem of fast fashion.

Less Clutter

Renting reduces clutter in your wardrobe. Since you return rented items after use, you won’t accumulate a surplus of clothing that you rarely wear. A decluttered closet not only eases your daily choices but also promotes a more sustainable lifestyle.

Buying: A Planned Wardrobe Investment

Quality and Durability

Investing in high-quality clothing can be a sustainable choice in the long run. Well-made garments tend to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Look for eco-friendly and sustainable brands that prioritise durability and ethical production.

Personal Connection

When you purchase clothing, you develop a more profound connection to your wardrobe. You may take better care of your possessions and appreciate the value of each piece, which can lead to a more sustainable mindset.

Supporting Sustainable Brands

By purchasing from ethical and sustainable fashion brands, you support businesses that prioritise fair labour practices and environmentally friendly production processes. This helps promote sustainability within the fashion industry.

Resale and Up-cycling

Owning clothing allows you to explore creative avenues like up-cycling and resale. When you no longer want a particular item, you can resell it or transform it into something new, reducing waste.

Making the Choice

The choice between renting and purchasing ultimately depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and values. Here are some considerations:

Occasional Wear: If you need special occasion outfits that you won’t wear often, renting may be the more sustainable and
cost-effective option.

Everyday Wardrobe: For everyday clothing that you plan to wear frequently, investing in high-quality, sustainable pieces can be a wise choice.

Hybrid Approach: Many individuals adopt a hybrid approach, combining rented items for occasional wear and investing in
long-lasting staples for daily use.

Conscious Consumption: Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to practice conscious consumption. Whether you rent or purchase, prioritize sustainable, ethical, and eco-friendly brands.

Some of the omnichannel Indian fashion rental platforms launched in the past decade are-

    – Rent the Runway India:
Rent the Runway is a well-known clothing rental platform that has expanded its services to India. They offer a wide range of designer clothing and accessories for women.

    – Flyrobe:
Flyrobe is a popular Indian clothing rental platform that offers a variety of outfits for both men and women, including ethnic wear, western wear, and accessories.

     – Swishlist:
Swishlist is another Indian clothing rental brand that specializes in ethnic wear for women. They have a curated collection of sarees, lehengas, and gowns for various occasions.

  – Stage3: Stage3 offers a diverse range of designer outfits for both men and women. They cater to occasions like weddings, parties, and casual wear.

    – The Clothing Rental:
This platform provides clothing rental options for women, including a variety of western and ethnic outfits, as well as accessories.

    – Wrapd:

     Wrapd focuses on renting ethnic and occasion wear, including sarees, lehengas, and sherwanis. They have a presence in multiple cities across India.

    – RentaCloset:
RentaCloset offers a wide selection of designer clothing and accessories for women, including options for brides and bridesmaids.

    – LibeRent:
LibeRent caters to both men and women, offering a range of clothing and accessories for various occasions. They also have a subscription-based model.

    – Date the Ramp:
This platform specializes in renting designer clothing and accessories for women, with a focus on high-end fashion.

    – Glamourental:
Glamourental offers a variety of clothing and accessories for women, including sarees, gowns, and designer outfits.

Conclusion

Navigating sustainability for your wardrobe in India requires thoughtful consideration of renting and purchasing options. Both have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on your unique circumstances and values. Whichever path you choose, remember that making informed, conscious decisions about your clothing is a significant step toward a more sustainable fashion industry and a healthier planet for future generations.

Click here for an interesting topic on recycling and sustainable fashion.

Anvesh Kumar
Consultant