circular economy
circular economy on Chiara Bransi: a running collection of 33 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on circular economy in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Who Chiara Bransi Is Chiara Bransi is a German-born lifestyle and fashion influencer, blogger, model, and entrepreneur. She rose to prominence by sharing fashion, travel, and… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around circular economy, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Chiara Bransi is covering right now.

Can Brands Create A Circular System For The Massive Clothing Waste Problem
The sheer volume of clothing waste presents a significant challenge, demanding innovative solutions beyond traditional disposal. Can brands truly engineer a circular system, transforming discarded garments into valuable resources? This exploration delves into the possibilities and complexities of closing the loop in the fashion industry, moving beyond linear models. We examine the potential for reimagined design, responsible sourcing, and robust recycling initiatives. As our recent piece, "Secondhand fashion isn't always THE solution," highlights, a multifaceted approach is essential for meaningful change.
REGENERATIVE
Regenerative practices represent a profound shift—moving beyond sustainability to actively restore and revitalize our ecosystems and communities. It’s about fostering resilience, enriching resources, and creating systems that give back more than they take. Imagine a small village thriving on locally sourced, regeneratively grown cotton, woven into clothing that embodies both style and self-sufficiency. This ethos can permeate fashion, material sourcing, and community building. As explored in "Can Brands Create A Circular System For The Massive Clothing Waste Problem," reimagining our approach to consumption is key.
Weekly Thrift Haul Thread
Welcome to our Weekly Thrift Haul Thread! We believe the most sustainable approach to fashion is embracing what already exists, and there’s nothing quite like discovering a unique treasure at a thrift store. Share your recent finds – we want to see your style and celebrate conscious consumption. Let's inspire each other to reimagine and appreciate pre-loved pieces. As The Loom & Peak so eloquently states, true luxury begins with craftsmanship, and thrifting offers a chance to uncover incredible artistry.
What do do with clothes at the end of their life cycle?
Navigating the end of a garment’s life cycle can feel surprisingly complex. Many of us accumulate clothing with wear and tear—worn elastic, small holes—that renders them unsuitable for donation. Discarding them feels wasteful, but what's the alternative? Fortunately, eco-conscious options exist beyond the landfill. Explore textile recycling programs, consider upcycling projects, or even repurpose fabric scraps for crafting.
Discounted/secondhand clothing
Navigating ethical and sustainable style on a budget can feel challenging. Many are seeking affordable options, and secondhand clothing presents a compelling solution. Has anyone discovered reliable sources for pre-loved, consciously-made garments? We’re curious to hear your experiences—where have you unearthed ethical treasures without breaking the bank? For a deeper dive into responsible clothing disposal, consider reading our article, "What do do with clothes at the end of their life cycle?", which explores end-of-life options.
Dissertation on Sustainability and Fast Fashion, Need Participants Please!
As a Masters student in entrepreneurship, I am conducting research for my dissertation: investigating the commercial viability of the Circular Economy within the UK’s fast fashion industry. My study explores how businesses can move beyond the "take, make, waste" linear model toward sustainable practices. To gather crucial insights, I am seeking 1-2 participants from the UK fast fashion industry—ideally managers or those with organizational consent. If you or someone you know can contribute, please reach out.

Retailers Are Telling the Wrong Sustainability Story - "What Happens to My Mattress?"
The narrative surrounding sustainability in retail often misses a crucial point: what happens *after* the purchase? /u/SeltzerDog’s insightful piece, "Retailers Are Telling the Wrong Sustainability Story - 'What Happens to My Mattress?'," tackles this uncomfortable truth, highlighting the need for greater transparency and responsibility regarding product end-of-life. It's a vital conversation, especially as consumers increasingly demand eco-conscious choices. For broader perspectives on current trends, see our recent spotlight on COS, Zara, and Mango's summer selections.
Is it ok to wear fast fashion if it's bought second hand and I plan to wear it for as long as it lasts?
Navigating the complexities of conscious consumption is a delicate balance. The question of wearing secondhand fast fashion—acknowledging potential worker exploitation while minimizing landfill waste—resonates deeply. It’s a valid internal conflict. Prioritizing longevity and mindful wear, as you do by sourcing from charity shops and older relatives, is a deeply intentional approach. Ultimately, extending the life cycle of existing garments holds considerable value. For those seeking to build a foundation of sustainably-made pieces, our article, "Sustainable basics clothing brands that actually hold up?" offers further exploration.

Upcycled Top from Vintage Cotton Florals
Discover understated elegance with this upcycled top, crafted from vintage cotton florals. A testament to intentional design and mindful consumption, this piece embodies a quiet luxury, seamlessly blending heritage charm with modern sensibility. The delicate floral print whispers of a bygone era, reimagined for the contemporary woman. It’s an invitation to embrace a refined aesthetic, valuing both beauty and sustainability. For a deeper exploration of fashion’s connection to self, see our recent article, "Fashion and Identity."