Halloween is a time for candy, spooky movies, and above all: costumes.
However, Halloween can be a very wasteful time as well, and costumes come with the same ethical and sustainable production issues that everyday clothing does.
Think about it: you’re buying something to wear one time, and likely throwing it away afterwards, or just donating it back to Goodwill (where it could be sent to a landfill, if it doesn’t sell).
That item you wore one time is likely made from cheap, manmade materials (like polyester) that release micro-plastics into the ocean whenever you put it in the washing machine. The reason it was so inexpensive in the first place is likely because factory workers were not paid living wages to produce it (a more expensive item would allow for room in profit to give back to workers).
But don’t fret: the production issues in costumes doesn’t mean you can’t dress up for your favorite holiday. Just take an alternate, more sustainable route.
Instead of buying a brand new costume, try thrifting items to put something together, trading pieces with friends, or just using what you have in your closet already. There is definitely multiple things you can make, and you’d be more likely to rewear the items that are already made for everyday wear.
Don’t let the fear of sustainability issues keep you from participating in Halloween, use it as an opportunity to promote conscious consumption!
Slowing Down Fashion 