
Not all clothes need a second body – Why Donation is not the answer to Fashion Waste
We often feel productive once we declutter our wardrobe and donate the clothes. We even feel noble for making such a social impact but what if I told you that the uncomfortable truth behind donation is that it is not the fit solution to the problem of fashion waste. In a way it simply delays the journey of an item to the landfill.
There are multiple reasons for donation to not be the answer to fashion waste. Some items simply can’t be donated, these items include lingerie, swimsuits and other used undergarments. Due to hygiene concerns these pieces are rejected at the donation centers. Yet, they often show up in donation piles only to be discarded again. This is just a mechanism of shifting the responsibility of discarding the item to the landfill. (Read: What to do with your old bras?)
Additionally, size matters – many communities where the donated items are sent do not share the average sizing as donors. What fits you might not fit the other. It creates a mismatch, creating an opportunity of missed help.

Most of the pieces that are donated are either worn out completely or flashy. Trendy pieces – dresses, shorts skirts and fun party wear clothing do not serve practical needs. In many regions modesty is a cultural norm and flashy items are not comfortable to be worn on day to day activities. Moreover, torn shirts, make up damaged clothes under the label of charity. This act strips dignity from the act of giving. If the intent is help and respect, the donated item should reflect that.
We as donors can do two things: Either donate an item which is in shape to be worn – wearable, practical, and clean or recycle it responsibly.
At Respun, we work with communities to give clothes a second life through recycling or transforming them into new materials. We believe dignity matters – for both the donor and the receiver,
Don’t donate the problem forward, donate with purpose and recycle with responsibility because donation is not a guilt eraser.