Sustainability = awareness
My name is Hester, I'm 29 years old, and I live in Alkmaar with my boyfriend. It's not only the most charming city in the Netherlands, but also progressive when it comes to sustainability. For me, sustainability is about awareness. Awareness of who you are, the choices you make, and the people you surround yourself with. For me, it goes beyond just buying sustainable clothing. It's a way of life and therefore has a deeper meaning. For example: many people are unaware of certain addictions, such as constantly wanting to consume new clothes or things. For a long time, I bought from a void within myself. When I started exploring this, I came closer to myself and discovered what's truly important to me. I became increasingly self-aware, and as a result, I also made different, more sustainable choices.
From fashion world to sustainable clothing
A large part of my passion for sustainability is my focus on sustainable clothing. I've had a great passion for fashion from a young age. I even ended up in the fashion world, but I wasn't happy there. The amount of stuff thrown away during photoshoots, as well as the superficiality and harshness, didn't suit me. Now I'm involved in sustainable clothing. I buy a lot of secondhand and look for ways to contribute to sustainability. outfit repeating to do. I also regularly attend clothing swap events and sometimes even organize one myself. I also regularly sit behind the sewing machine to repair items or create something new from old fabrics. Creativity is in my heart and in my family.
Vision & more connection
I'd love to organize more events and workshops about sustainability. Think of new clothing swap events or a workshop with inspiring tips for conscious living. I'd also like to set up something for companies, for example, an item swap between colleagues or business associates. Or a workshop on how to dress well for a meeting or job interview. Doing something for men in the field of sustainable clothing also really appeals to me, especially because sustainable clothing is already popular with women, and there's even more to be gained for men. Social media is amazing! I'd like to spend more time creating engaging content about sustainable clothing and conscious living, and hopefully reach even more people that way. What I've learned from my own experiences is that it's quite intense to set up certain projects like a clothing swap on your own. That's why I envision more collaborations in the future. I believe that sustainability also goes hand in hand with connection and working together. Ultimately, you achieve more together, especially in this area.
Shopping addiction: becoming aware of old patterns
I still regularly catch myself not always making sustainable and conscious choices. For example, I sometimes shop at large retail chains instead of choosing sustainable clothing. I don't think that's good for me, since I also want to be an example to others. It's also the "easy and quick" way, like getting a burger at McDonald's instead of cooking a healthy meal. I'm exploring how I can transform unconscious choices into sustainable ones. I do this by examining where this desire to go shopping again comes from. I do this through a lot of self-reflection. Writing, meditation, and reading help me with this. Walking, exercising, and listening to podcasts also contribute to my awareness.
Tip from Hes
My motto: it doesn't have to be expensive to look great! People always think sustainable clothing is more expensive or perhaps woolly. It doesn't have to be expensive; it's often even more affordable. Because for me, sustainability is about making conscious choices. If you buy a wardrobe item that might be more expensive, but will last a long time because it's made of good quality, it's relatively cheaper than something that ends up in the trash after three wears. You can also transform a very simple, basic dress into a different outfit every time with a cool accessory, like the Bandana Scarf . Smart shopping is also highly recommended. I go to the thrift store every week and pick up the coolest things for under 10 euros. Or scour a flea market, swap with friends, dive into your own closet, and discover a hidden gem. People often say, "Hey, how do you keep finding those cool items?" Above all, be creative and inventive!
From volunteer work to revenue model
There's still so much to achieve for myself in the areas of sustainable clothing and conscious living. As you've read before, I have plenty of plans. My biggest wish would be to forge more exciting collaborations with others who share this vision. And to create a revenue model for myself in the field of sustainable entrepreneurship, since I've mostly volunteered so far.
Pearls from The Sustainable Superstore
My clothing style? Minimalist, feminine, cool, and colorful. And yes, I love unique shoes and bags. I love the Atlantis Vegan Ankle Boots Silver – Limited Edition ! In spring and summer, I often go for a touch of boho. The Sarih Kimono (short) I would definitely wear that!
You can find my content about awareness and sustainable clothing on my website: hestersnijders.nl & Instagram: @hestersnijders . Feel free to send me a message, let's connect!
Love,
Hester
