Local Solutions to the Fashion Industry's Flaws

We're jumping out of our lane for a minute... well, not really.

Though our main objective at Local Refillery is to reduce single-use plastic packaging, we also care deeply about reducing all waste along with harmful chemicals in what we use, the environmental toll of transporting goods long distances, and of course the well-being of those who make our products for us.

So - although we don't sell clothing - fashion is something that is always on our minds... fast fashion in particular. It makes clothing cheaper which encourages consumption and throwaway culture. This in turn adds more chemicals and waste to our air and our earth, uses an incredible amount of water, creates harmful working conditions, and - because so much of what is made is polyester - adds an enormous amount of microplastics to our waterways and oceans.

BUT... there are always better ways. Slow fashion is one - it insists on quality over quantity, prioritizing sustainable practices. Another option is avoiding the worst offenders of fast fashion (we're looking at you, Shein). And of course, thrifting is always a great alternative to buying new. Today we'd like to highlight consignment because - in this economy - it's such a wonderful way to save money on higher end clothing AND make some money as you do your bit for the earth by keeping your preloved clothes in rotation and out of the landfill! We're so lucky to have some incredible stores in this beautiful Valley.

Here are some to check out:

Podlings - 420 Fitzgerald Ave

PODLINGS: Of course our lovely neighbour is first on the list! This store is so important to the community because it specializes in maternity, infant needs, & kids' clothing - some of the least worn (time-wise), most needed, and often most expensive items young families go through. This store has been invaluable to our community for almost two decades!

Sweet Salvage - #104-397 5th street in Courtenay & 215 Port Augusta St. Unit 17B in Comox

SWEET SALVAGE (Courtenay & Comox): Upwards of 11 million tons of textile waste ends up in landfills EVERY year, which is why Sweet Salvage is all about creating a circular economy by promoting sustainability through re-using and re-loving clothing! They place value on natural fabrics, Canadian made clothing, and prioritizing companies that maintain high environmental and ethical standards throughout the entire production phase. Sweet Salvage has an expertly curated selection from over 500 consigners locally and beyond.

Isla Consignment - #100-457 Cliffe Ave

ISLA CONSIGNMENT: Believes in fashion that does not harm the planet, garment workers, or animals. Creating a circular economy by using what we already have and extending the life cycle of our clothes. They aim to keep their prices fair & ethical so that consignment is accessible to everyone. Isla also donates unsold clothing to:

• The Sunday Station - a local non-profit organization that provides a free meal service every Sunday in the Comox Valley, and

• The Comox Valley Waste Management - who supports the Community School Societies, who host community events such as Repair Cafes and Clothing Swaps to teach recycling and reusing textile waste.

Valley Vibe Boutique - 478 A 5th St

VALLEY VIBE BOUTIQUE: This is the longest running adult consignment store in Courtenay, boasting a large selection of men’s clothing. Their mission is to bring our community together through sustainable style, and provide a welcoming space where pre-loved clothing finds new life, consignors feel supported, and shoppers can explore curated, everyday fashion. Valley Vibe believes in affordability, authenticity, and reducing waste - one outfit at a time.

One of One Consignment - #7-625 Cliffe Ave

This shop looks tiny, but just keeps going on the inside! They focus on higher quality clothing and giving priority to brands with ethical and sustainable practices at the forefront, but also accept some fast fashion items to keep them out of the landfill & help someone new love it too! One of One's mission is to be the bridge that promotes recycling, reducing and reusing the clothing already in circulation, while also supporting the brands that are consciously creating clothing with our earth mother in mind.

WOLF SHED: A little vintage Boho inspired Wolf SheD by the sea. Selling preloved fashion and vintage goods. Lots of unique pre-loved quality gems to be found and fun to be had at this little shop! This store is the only one not located within immediate walking distance, as it's on the dyke road, but it's definitely worth the effort - and the view is amazing!

Each of these stores, with the exception of Podlings, are also having a Consignment Crawl that goes until Feb 15th. You can get an entry card at any location & collect stamps just by popping into their store for a chance to win some great cash prices and a discount, so it's a perfect time to check them out! =)