Your Guide to Buying Sustainable Coachella Outfits

If you are heading to Coachella, having the right outfits is one big part of the plan.

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Unsurprisingly, the fast fashion brands know that as well. Every year, they come up with their collection of festival edits, and through that, they do what they are best at — promote overconsumption and excessive production.

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Search for "Coachella festival outfits" on websites like Shein and Boohoo, and you'll find thousands of options priced as low as $3.

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Like most ultra-fast fashion items, these flares, crop tops, and dresses rarely last beyond a single festival before ending up in landfills.

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There are more sustainable ways to dress for festivals like Coachella:

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Shop Your Wardrobe

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Start by looking inside your wardrobe. Maybe there are things that you can combine and wear to have that Coachella look that you have in mind. Mixing things up in your wardrobe would help you save money, give another life to your existing clothes, and reduce the demand for fast fashion clothes. If some clothes need some repair, you could try doing it yourself or take them to a tailor.

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Also read: When to Use Visible Mending

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Organize a Clothing Swap With Friends

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If your wardrobe search comes up empty, consider looking through your friends' closets instead. Organize a clothing swap party — it's a great way for everyone to find festival outfits without spending money. Your friends might even let you keep the outfit after the festival. If you're having trouble finding swap partners, try local Buy Nothing Groups, where people often give away their festival wear for free.

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Shop Secondhand

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Buying secondhand clothes is another great alternative to fast fashion. Start by checking thrift stores in your area — they often have flowing dresses, floral one-pieces, and short skirts perfect for Coachella. Thrifting not only extends the life of existing clothes but also reduces the need for new manufacturing. You can even thrift from home by shopping online. Check out these 7 Best Online Thrift Stores.

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Also read: 5 Upcycled Clothing Brands You Should Know About

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Shop From Sustainable, Affordable Brands

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Fast fashion brands keep their prices low through synthetic fibers, labor exploitation, and by encouraging overconsumption. Fortunately, several sustainable and affordable brands are treating both people and the planet well while maintaining reasonable prices. Check out these 7 Affordable Alternatives to Fast Fashion.

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