Ahead of Earth Day this we sat down with Bianca Foley, presenter and founder of platform Sustainably Influenced to discuss what the day means to her and how she makes conscious choices with her wardrobe.
What does Earth Day mean to you?
Earth Day holds a very special place in my heart. It's a day to celebrate our planet, raise awareness about environmental issues, and promote sustainable practices. For me, Earth Day is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the environment and make a positive impact through our daily actions.
Who is inspiring you and pioneering around sustainability and responsible living?
There are so many inspiring individuals and organisations out there. From eco-friendly fashion brands to zero-waste influencers, there are countless people pioneering sustainable practices. Personally, I'm inspired by people like Arizona Muse, who has been a leader in sustainable fashion for years, and Andrea Cheng, whose Mindful Monday series teaches you how to shop better.
Advice you follow when building your own wardrobe and making purchases?
When it comes to building a sustainable wardrobe, my advice is to prioritise quality over quantity. Invest in high-quality pieces that are timeless and versatile, and focus on building a capsule wardrobe that can be mixed and matched. It's also important to consider the materials and production methods used in the clothes you're buying, and to look for brands that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices.
Investment pieces vs fast fashion: how do you get people to care?
As for getting people to care about investment pieces vs fast fashion, I think it's all about education and awareness. By sharing information about the environmental and social impact of fast fashion, we can help people understand the importance of investing in quality, sustainable pieces. It's also important to highlight the long-term benefits of investing in a sustainable wardrobe, such as reduced waste, lower cost-per-wear, and a timeless, versatile style.
What changes would you like to see happen in the fashion industry?
In a nutshell, there's definitely a lot of work to be done. I'd love to see more transparency and accountability from brands when it comes to their environmental and social impact, as well as more investment in sustainable materials and production methods. It's also important to prioritise workers' rights and fair labour practices; and to shift away from the fast fashion model that values quantity over quality. Overall, I believe that a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry is not only possible, but necessary for the health of our planet and its people.
