TENN’s Take on Sustainable Fashion
March 24, 2025 – Five by Five
The Benefits of Sustainable Fashion
Sustainable fashion is more than just a trend - it’s a smarter way to shop.
In Australia, the issue of textile waste is significant. In 2023, an estimated 924 million pieces of unwanted clothing ended up in landfills. This equates to each Australian disposing of an average of 23 kilograms of clothing annually, making the country the second-highest consumer of textiles per person globally, after the USA.
The environmental impact is further intensified by the materials used in fast fashion. Fabrics like polyester, essentially a form of plastic, are prevalent in many garments. These synthetic materials are non-biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to long-term pollution. As they break down, they release microplastics into the environment, contaminating soil and waterways.
Beyond environmental issues, consumer behaviour also plays a role. A survey of 3,080 Australians revealed that one in three discards unwanted clothes through rubbish due to confusion over proper disposal methods. This trend underscores a culture of overconsumption and the disposable nature of fast fashion.
The implications of our fashion consumption extend beyond our immediate environment, potentially affecting future generations. The continued reliance on fast fashion contributes to environmental degradation, resource depletion, and pollution, all of which pose significant challenges for the planet's future.
Moreover, the production processes associated with fast fashion have led to severe pollution in manufacturing countries. Rivers and streams, once vital water sources, have become contaminated with toxins from chemicals and dyes used extensively in the textile industry. In some regions, locals observe that the colour of the rivers reflects upcoming fashion trends due to the dye runoff from textile manufacturers.
These insights highlight the pressing need for more sustainable practices in the fashion industry and more conscious consumer behaviour.
Less Waste, More Style
The environmental cost of fast fashion is undeniable, from the high water usage in textile production to the carbon emissions from mass manufacturing and transportation.
Sustainable fashion offers an alternative by focusing on reusability rather than disposability. Renting a dress instead of buying reduces textile waste by keeping garments in circulation longer. Every rented dress means fewer new items need to be produced, lowering demand for raw materials and cutting down on unnecessary landfill contributions. This approach not only benefits the environment but also promotes a shift away from the culture of one-time wear.
A Smarter Way to Enjoy Luxury Fashion
Owning designer fashion is a luxury, but the cost of purchasing high-end pieces can be impractical, especially for special occasions where a dress may only be worn once. Instead of spending hundreds or even thousands on a single outfit, renting allows access to premium styles for a fraction of the price.
Beyond affordability, renting prevents wardrobes from becoming overcrowded with dresses that are rarely worn. Rather than collecting items that take up space and eventually go to waste, a rental model ensures that designer pieces are shared and enjoyed by multiple people. This means more variety, more style options, and the ability to wear something different for every occasion without long-term commitment or excess spending.
Sustainability Without Compromise
Choosing sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, convenience, or style. Many assume that being environmentally conscious requires extra effort, but renting a dress is a simple and effective way to reduce waste while still looking incredible. The process is effortless - select a dress, wear it, and return it when finished. Professional cleaning and garment care ensure that each dress remains in pristine condition, ready for its next wear.
By opting for rental over purchase, consumers contribute to a circular fashion economy, where clothing is used to its fullest potential rather than discarded after minimal wear. This shift in mindset helps reduce the demand for new production, ultimately lowering the fashion industry's impact on the planet.
Join the Movement with TENN
Sustainable fashion is about making smarter choices - ones that reduce waste, extend the life of clothing and make luxury fashion more accessible. Renting a designer dress is a simple way to embrace this shift, allowing you to enjoy high-end style without the guilt of fast fashion.
At TENN, we make it easy to look incredible while making a positive impact. Our seamless hire process gives you access to a wide range of designer pieces without the commitment of ownership. No hidden costs, no hassle - just effortless fashion that aligns with a more conscious way of dressing.
Join the movement. Browse our collection today and experience the benefits of sustainable fashion with TENN.