How to Buy Vegan Clothing

Vegan philosophy opposes the exploitation of animals for any purpose. Although vegans vary in their individual practices, strict vegans abstain from using anything that contains animal products. Vegan living is gaining popularity and many retailers now carry fashionable, cruelty free apparel. Follow these steps to buy vegan clothing in which you will look and feel great.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Avoid clothing products containing wool. Although shearing sheep for wool sounds harmless, living conditions on sheep farms are often unacceptable. In addition, practices like mulesing physically harm sheep by surgically removing portions of their fleece-bearing skin to prevent fly infestation.
2. Buy leather free apparel. Leather alternatives such as vinyl, microfiber and canvas are available at mainstream retail stores and are often cheaper than leather and can last just as long if cared for properly. You can find everything from purses and belts to shoes that look like leather but are made from animal free materials.
3. Understand the various alternatives to wool. For cold climates, purchase clothing made of heavy cotton or hemp. If you need to equip yourself for arctic conditions, buy a coat made of recycled plastic bottles. This sustainable material will keep you warmer than leather or wool.
4. Forget fur. Vegans don't wear any fur and most do not welcome the increasing popularity of fake fur. There are many fur alternatives that are just as warm and attractive and are far less expensive.
5. Express yourself. Some alternative clothing outfitters carry vegan clothing with personal messages such as "I love tofu" and "Sassy girls don't wear leather." These shirts provide a fun way to convey your philosophy to others.
6. Visit your local natural grocery store. Many natural grocery stores carry vegan clothing and accessories such as purses and wallets. If you don't have a natural foods store in your area, visit vegan clothing stores on the Internet to find their local retailers.

Tips & Warnings

• Extend your vegan lifestyle beyond your diet and apparel. Replace your conventional beauty arsenal with cruelty free cosmetics, hair care products, toiletries and bathing products.