If fashion is your thing, but you’re starting to think more about where your clothes come from and what you’re spending your money on, you may be pleased to know that anyone can build a more ethical wardrobe – it doesn’t even have to be expensive!

Here are some cool ethical fashion hacks that will help you create a principled wardrobe on a budget:

Switch to Sustainable Basics

Basics are rarely the most expensive items in any wardrobe, so it makes sense to start with them when you’re looking to build a more ethical look. Sustainable basics including socks, camisoles and underwear are really easy to find – some charities even sell them – and they can help you build a more ethical foundation.

Repair Your Clothes

If you want your wardrobe to be more sustainable, one really simple thing you can do is have your existing clothes repaired or even revamped into a completely new garment, instead of throwing them out when they’re less than perfect. Alterations can be bought cheaply, but if you want to really do something cool, why not invest in a sewing machine and learn how to do your own wardrobe repairs?

Use a Ring Concierge

If you’re a bit of a jewelry junkie but you’re worried about blood diamonds and other unethical practices in the industry, hiring a ring concierge who will source pieces that are not only conflict-free but good for the planet and even recycled can be a great idea. By doing this, you’ll be able to look at your special sparkles and know that there is nothing that could ever taint them.

Choose Quality Over Quantity

Some ethical brands can be expensive, but that’s because they pay a fair wage to their employees and because they source less harmful textiles and dying techniques, for example than the average clothing brand. They put in the effort, so instead of avoiding them because they cost more, why not aim to buy quality over quantity instead. Buy pieces that can be used to build a capsule wardrobe and you won’t need as many clothes, but you will always look great and you’ll be able to hold your ethical head high.

Thrift Stores

Want to be really ethical and really not spend a lot of money? Hit the local thrift stores. Not only will you not be adding to your carbon footprint by buying new, but you’ll also find lots of one-off pieces that you won’t be able to get elsewhere, which means you’ll be able to create a totally unique wardrobe that will be the envy of all your friends.

Rent It

If you really love a piece that’s really expensive and really not the most ethical, why not rent it instead. The garment may not have been made in the most ethical way, but renting it and lowering your carbon footprint is certainly ethical, and it’ll be great for your wallet too.

Being ethical in your fashion choices is easier than you can think. Think carefully, buy sparingly and look after the clothes you have for an ethical wardrobe that will be the envy of everyone.