Navigating the Contradictions Between Style and Environmental Responsibility

Fashion has always been in my blood. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the fashion-forward lifestyle, I was taught from an early age that how one dressed mattered greatly. My grandfather was a founder of a luxury fashion retailer, and my relatives were icons of style and retail innovation. However, as an energy and climate expert with a focus on the petrochemical industry, I have spent years advocating for sustainability, especially in the fashion sector. This has created a deep internal conflict—how can I reconcile my love for fashion with the environmental damage caused by the industry?

Last year, while preparing a keynote speech on sustainability for a conference in Rome, I found myself at a crossroads. I was going to speak about the environmental harm caused by plastics in fabrics, but I was also excited about the opportunity to shop in one of my favorite cities. This moment forced me to confront the contradictions between my work and my personal style. I wanted to preach sustainability but also felt the pull of the shopping experience.

The fashion industry is a major contributor to environmental degradation. It is responsible for emissions twice that of the aviation sector, with half of those coming from fast fashion. Over two-thirds of today’s fabric contains plastic materials that wash off into the oceans, harming marine life. The petrochemical microfibers from our clothes are even making their way into our food through seafood. These facts are well known to me, but my connection to fashion runs deep.

Fast fashion is not only environmentally damaging but also economically unsustainable. The industry relies heavily on cheap, synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and elastane—materials derived from petrochemicals. One estimate suggests that the runoff from these materials is equivalent to 50 billion plastic bottles in the ocean. This pollution is not just a problem for marine life—it affects human health as well, as microplastics are now found in the food chain.

After my trip to Rome, I set three goals: stop buying fast fashion, shift to clothing brands that use recycled fabrics when possible, and look to vintage clothing for personal style. The first step was easier than I expected. The fast fashion industry has changed, with trends now turning over more quickly, making it harder to keep up. Additionally, the shift toward more casual attire post-pandemic has helped me reduce my shopping habits.

However, finding truly sustainable clothing has proven more challenging. Even brands that claim to be eco-friendly often use some plastic or petrochemical materials. Recycled fabric, while better, still ends up in landfills if not used responsibly. This is why the movement toward vintage clothing has become more appealing. Vintage allows for a personal fashion statement while reducing the environmental impact of new manufacturing.

In Rome, I used my keynote speech as both a learning opportunity and a fashion statement. I wore a vintage blouse from my closet, paired with wide-leg pants, to highlight the environmental and stylistic benefits of vintage clothing. Yet, I still found myself buying new loafers from Prada before stepping on stage. It’s a reminder that even the most committed can struggle with temptation.

As I have aged, I have become more strategic about my wardrobe. I invest in high-quality, classic pieces that will stand the test of time and supplement them with trendier, less expensive items. I also keep unique pieces that I believe will come back in style. My students have influenced me, showing a deeper commitment to sustainability in their choices.

With retail therapy off the table, I now channel my fashion budget into other areas, like hair and eyewear. I have realized that looking good doesn’t always require the latest outfit. Sometimes, a fresh hairstyle or updated glasses can lift my spirits without the environmental cost.

In balancing my love for fashion with a commitment to sustainability, I continue to learn and adapt. The journey is ongoing, but it’s one that I believe is essential for both personal and planetary well-being. By embracing vintage and sustainable practices, I hope to inspire others to make conscious choices that reflect both style and responsibility.