It’s no secret that the key to sustainable shopping is simply to shop less. Overconsumption—no matter what brands or materials you’re buying—cannot, by definition, be green. However, the reality is that sometimes we need or want to update our closets, so what might be the best things to look for?
We’ve taken the liberty of rounding up some cool, sustainable materials you can go ahead and start wearing, that are good for your closet *and* better for the planet.
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sustainable materials...
1. Piñatex
Piñatex is what happens when pineapple leaves are turned into a leather-ish fabric that can make very cool coats, shoes and, honestly, anything. For proof, look to the extremely chic Mashu bag, above.
2. Desserto
Hello to this cactus leather, known for its softness (no spikes!). Only the most mature parts of the plant are used, leaving the rest to regrow.
3. Mylo
Mushrooms, folks. Thread-like fungus filaments, called mycelia, grow on beds of sawdust and other organic materials, forming a fluffy layer that’s then processed and dyed to make trainers and bags. Trippy, right?
4. Econyl
Nylon, but make it out of fishing nets, old carpets and other plastic waste. It’s used in swim and sportswear (and the occasional Prada bag).
5. Cupro
This breathable, silky fabric—perfect for blouses and tank tops—is made from recycled cotton linter, the strands often left behind on processed cottonseed.
6. Lyocel
Pretty much the sexiest way you’ll ever think about wood pulp. It’s mainly sourced from eucalyptus, and can be spun into damn good sheets, T-shirts and more.

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This article originally appeared in Issue 03 of Cosmopolitan Australia.