Check the waistband – and beware sneaky jargon: the expert guide to buying clothes that last
This guide offers tips on identifying high-quality clothing to promote sustainable fashion and the '30 wears' challenge. It explains how to inspect seams and construction details to ensure garments last longer.
Why it matters
Encourages sustainable consumption habits by helping consumers avoid 'fast fashion' and reduce textile waste.
Shop smart: a few simple checks can help you spot better-made clothes before you buy. Photograph: Punyupa/Getty Shop smart: a few simple checks can help you spot better-made clothes before you buy. Photograph: Punyupa/Getty Guardian journalism is independent. We earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more .
Should you look for French seams or overlocking? Is dry-clean only a red flag? And how do you spot quality when shopping online? We asked the pros
Prefer the Guardian on Google Take a look at the outfit you’re wearing now: how many times have you worn each item? And how long have you had them? Just over 10 years ago, Eco-Age founder Livia Firth and journalist Lucy Siegle launched the 30 wears challenge to encourage people to buy clothes they would wear at least 30 times.
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