Where to Shop for Stylish and Sustainable Fashion on a Budget

As a college student and part-time employee, money is always a constant worry. And like many of you, I'm told to live out my college experience and immerse myself in every single thing possible. But how can I do that when I have nothing to wear and all I can afford on a college student budget is cheap fast fashion brands that do more harm than good? Well, lucky for you, I've done the research so you don't have to. Listed below are a few of my favorite sustainable and affordable fashion brands to shop from on a budget! As you're reading, keep in mind that a majority of fashion brands that focus on sustainability can be on the pricier side due to their ethical practices. And although these companies use more expensive means of production, their products are likely to last longer– ultimately saving you more financially! Hope you have a happy read and purchase!

1. Levi's SecondHand $-$$

In October 2020, Levi's Strauss & Co.'s Jared Ellner launched "Levi's SecondHand," an additional shopping website for customers to shop Levi's Strauss & Co. secondhand jeans, denim jackets, shorts and trucker hats at affordable prices. Being a working college student, I don’t have the luxury to buy a brand-new pair of Levi’s at $89 or more anytime my heart (or wallet) desires, so the second-hand store is a great alternative. Rather than having to buy full priced Levi’s or find marked-down products on fashion marketplaces, I can buy pieces that are tailored to my budget through the second hand website while still being able to wear the household brand. And not only are you able to buy second hand products, but you can also drop off your old Levi’s jeans, jackets, shorts and trucker hats at any store in return for a gift card towards a future store purchase directly on the official website or second hand store.

2. Patagonia's Worn Wear $-$$

In November 2019, Patagonia introduced its re-crafted line "Worn Wear," a second-hand online store where customers have the opportunity to purchase pre-owned Patagonia products that are more affordably priced. From previously worn jackets and sweaters to vests and bags, the re-crafted line offers countless Patagonia fashions that are both stylish and within a college budget! Like “Levi’s SecondHand,” Patagonia’s "Worn Wear” store also gives you the opportunity to up-cycle old Patagonia merchandise at any of its physical store locations or online in return for store credit which can be used in Patagonia retail stores, on the “Worn Wear” website or the Patagonia website.

3. Girlfriend Collective $-$$

Founded in 2016, Girlfriend Collective is an online e-tailer that makes high quality clothes from recycled materials in sizes XXS-6XL. According to Girlfriend Collective, the company also uses a compressive fabric that is claimed to be “Sweat-wicking, squat-proof, and sustainably made from recycled water bottles.” With competitors like Lululemon and Alo Yoga, that are known for their expensive yet poorly sized and easily worn out athletic apparel, Girlfriend Collective is the perfect alternative for affordable and stylish active wear, starting as low as $42.

4. KOTN $$

Like I've said before, a majority of sustainable fashion brands will be on the more expensive side. However, the price of even a basic staple at a sustainable production level is long-lasting and dependable. Speaking of basic staples, KOTN is an online, Canadian based e-tailer founded in 2015 that sells ethically-sourced Egyptian cotton basics. From staple pieces like knitwear, lounge-wear and denim, KOTN produces and promises essentials that are everlasting. KOTN products are marked higher than the alternative brands above, but keep in mind that fashion is an investment. Investing your money in pieces that are simple basics is worthwhile if it means they will last longer.

5. Nobody's Child $-$$

If you're a lover of Reformation Vintage but can't afford their products, Nobody's Child is a great alternative that sells a similar and more affordable range of apparel. Founded in 2015, Nobody's Child is an independent, London-based brand that is "driven by creating responsible and affordable fashion for kind and spirited women" (Nobody's Child, 2015). Not only does Nobody's Child produce feminine, flattering and affordable products, the company also values ethical production and treatment with transparency, traceability, waste reduction and sustainable materials, all while upholding quality labor standards. I just recently purchased the "Nicola Mini Dress" and am in love with its fit and quality. And the price I paid for it ($75) is nothing compared to what I would've paid at Reformation Vintage.

6. Etsy

Last and most certainly not least, Etsy. I'd consider Etsy to be one of the most underrated global marketplaces for fashion, seeing as more than half of my closet consists of products purchased directly from the website. What many people fail to realize about Etsy is its wide array of clothing and clothing brands that are both fashionable and affordable. Etsy is home to thousands of small boutiques, local brands and vintage stores that are financially friendly to the college budget! I recently purchased three new vintage pieces: 80's/90's New York Knicks Shirt, New York Rangers Graphic 1990's Pullover Crewneck Sweatshirt and University of Florida Gators NCAA Pullover Crewneck Sweatshirt, all in great condition and purchased for a total of $136. Not only does Etsy provide you with an infinite amount of stores to choose from, but affordable and trending fashions that can easily be filtered by your desired price points. Whether you like purchasing up-cycled pieces and fashionable thrifts, or are looking to support small and local brands, Etsy is a great alternative to fast fashion.

For more information on stylish, affordable and sustainable fashions, check out some of my other blog posts!