Dear Earth: A Love Letter from My Closet

What Earth Day taught me about slowing down, shopping better, and showing love in what I wear.

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Dear Earth,

I used to dress without thinking. I’d chase trends, fill online carts, and buy things I barely wore. I thought fashion was fun – and it was – but I didn’t realize who was paying the price.

You were always there, quietly holding the cost of my choices. The water used to make my jeans. The air clouded by textile factories. The landfills filling up with last season’s “must-haves”. You carried it all.

And today, on Earth Day, I just want to say: I see you now. I’m listening. And I’m learning how to love you back.

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What Earth Day Means to Me (and My Wardrobe)

Earth Day used to come and go for me, like a feel-good holiday in passing. But now, it feels personal.

When I began learning about the fashion industry’s impact – the pollution, the waste, the exploitation – I couldn’t look at my closet the same way. And honestly? That was uncomfortable at first. But it also opened the door to something more meaningful.

Earth Day reminds me that I’m not powerless. Every choice I make – every dollar I spend, every item I wear – is a chance to either hurt or help the planet I call home.

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5 Ways I Celebrate Earth Day Through Fashion

I may not be perfect (and I don’t try to be), but here are five ways I’m learning to honor the Earth with my style:

1.I Wear What I Already Own – Proudly

Instead of chasing newness, I reimagine what I already have. I mix, match, restyle, and fall in love with pieces I’ve had for years. Getting dressed is less about impressing others and more about expressing myself with intention.

2. I Shop Secondhand Before Buying New

There’s something so special about finding a gem with a story. Thrifting, swapping, or shopping vintage helps reduce waste and keeps clothing in circulation longer. It’s like treasure hunting – with a purpose.

3. I Support Ethical Brands That Care

When I do buy new, I try to support brands that value transparency, fair wages, and low-impact materials. Yes, it often costs more – but I’ve learned that real value isn’t always cheap. And slowing down my shopping means I can afford to choose better.

4. I Repair and Repeat

A missing button or a small tear used to send me shopping for something new. Now, I try to fix what I can and keep my clothes in rotation longer. There’s pride in caring for what you own – like tending to a little piece of your story.

5. I Share What I Learn

This blog, this post, this journey – it’s all part of that. I believe knowledge is a ripple effect. If one person feels inspired to shop slower or love their clothes a little longer, that’s change. And it starts right here.

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What I’ve Gained by Choosing Better

The biggest surprise in this journey? It’s not what I’ve given up – it’s what I’ve gained.

I feel more confident in my style. My closet is less overwhelming. I spend less, but everything I wear feels like me. And best of all? There’s peace in knowing my choices are a little lighter on the planet.

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Love the Earth With Me

This Earth Day, I hope you’ll celebrate with me – not with a haul or a trend, but with pause.

Wear your favorite outfit again. Mend that sweater. Skip the sale. Compliment someone’s thrifted dress. Talk about where your clothes come from. Or just take a moment to feel grateful for the planet we live on.

Because fashion can be beautiful. But it’s even more beautiful when it’s kind.

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Happy Earth Day, friend.

With love (and less),

-Rikki