Fast fashion may offer low prices and new trends, but its cost goes far beyond the price tag. From environmental damage to human rights issues, the fashion industry’s impact is massive.
Yet, there’s a growing movement that’s pushing back—and it’s not just about wearing organic cotton. It’s about reshaping habits, slowing down purchases, and making style choices with purpose.
That’s where the ideas from the “Refashion Workshop” come into play, offering a more mindful way to engage with fashion that benefits both people and the planet.
Why Rethinking Fashion Matters
The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter globally. What’s worse, about one in six people worldwide work in some aspect of clothing production—often in unsafe or exploitative conditions. These statistics aren’t just numbers; they reflect the true cost of a system built for speed and volume.
Fast production cycles and easy online access fuel the pressure to constantly buy and discard clothing. Most shoppers don’t stop to think about who made their clothes or where those items will end up after they’re tossed aside. The “Refashion Workshop” aims to change that, helping people pause and consider more sustainable paths to personal style.
Practical Shifts That Make a Difference
Courtney Berryger, an eco-fashion artist and the author behind “Refashion Workshop,” offers simple, actionable strategies to break the cycle of overconsumption. Her approach focuses on thoughtful decisions that align with individual values without compromising style.
Here’s a breakdown of her framework to support both fashion and the planet:
1. Shop your own closet first
Before heading out to buy something new, take inventory of what you already have. You might rediscover forgotten favorites or find creative ways to mix and match.
2. Swap instead of shop
Clothing swaps with friends or community groups help refresh wardrobes without buying anything new.
3. Sew or repair your items
A missing button or torn seam doesn’t have to mean the end of a garment. Basic sewing skills can go a long way in giving clothes a longer life.
4. Support small or local labels
When new items are needed, seek out independent designers or local boutiques rather than large retailers. These businesses are more likely to use ethical sourcing and production practices.
5. Secondhand over brand-new
Thrift stores and vintage shops offer unique finds while reducing the demand for new production.
6. Traditional and timeless pieces
Investing in well-made, versatile clothing that doesn’t follow short-term trends results in a more sustainable and long-lasting wardrobe.
These tips are practical enough for anyone to apply and promote a slower, more intentional connection to personal fashion choices.
An Interactive Approach to Conscious Fashion
Berryger’s book is far from a standard how-to manual. It blends information with interactive tools like quizzes, meditations, and exercises to help readers connect with their fashion habits on a deeper level. One standout feature is the carbon footprint calculator tailored for fashion consumption. By understanding personal impact, readers can begin to shift behaviors that matter.
The book also explores the emotional side of fashion—how it affects confidence, identity, and expression. It bridges the gap between the desire to look good and the need to act responsibly. Instead of preaching about sustainability, it invites reflection and inspires action.
Inspiring Others Through Real Conversations
Courtney Berryger isn’t just sharing ideas through pages—she’s also bringing them to communities in person. During a recent stop in Savannah, she connected with locals at Morgan Ray Boutique. It wasn’t just about book signings; it was about sparking meaningful conversations.
When asked what she hopes people take away, Berryger said she wants “to light a fire”—a desire in others to explore all the ways they can align their fashion choices with their personal values. For her, being stylish and caring about the environment aren’t opposing goals—they’re perfectly compatible.
The Bigger Picture
The message from “Refashion Workshop” isn’t about guilt or perfection. It’s about possibilities. Fashion doesn’t have to be wasteful or harmful. With a shift in mindset and a few practical changes, it can become a form of self-expression that respects both the planet and its people.
Fashion, when approached with care, becomes more than trends—it becomes a tool for positive change. And that’s something worth wearing every day.