Clothes upcycling and sustainability books

sustainability books

Clothes upcycling and sustainability books I recommend.

Committed to enhancing my sustainability and minimising my environmental impact, I often listen to audiobooks that provide practical tips for living more eco-friendly. Here’s a list of books I highly recommend.

sustainability books fashionopolis by dana thomas

Fashionopolis.
The price of fast fashion and the future of clothing.

Author: Dana Thomas.

Dana’s thoughtfully researched book shines a light on the hidden costs of fast fashion including its impact on the environment, workers, and society, revealing how our demand for cheap, throwaway clothing has fueled ecological devastation, the exploitation of garment workers, and an increasingly unsustainable industry.

I found Dana’s exploration of fashion’s history fascinating, from its artisanal beginnings to today’s assembly lines churning out billions of garments each year.

Dana doesn’t shy away from showing the environmental consequences, like excessive water use, chemical pollution, and the mountains of waste left behind by discarded clothing. The human toll of the industry is equally heartbreaking, with stories of poor working conditions, low wages, and exploitation in countries that produce the bulk of fast fashion.

Thankfully, the book balances this sobering reality of fast fashion with hope. It’s a call to action, offering inspiring examples of sustainable fashion designers, ethical brands, and innovative technologies that are paving the way for a better future. It’s a reminder that while the challenges are immense, change is possible.

sustainability books the art of frugal hedonism

The Art of Frugal Hedonsim
A guide to spending less while enjoying everything more

Authors: Annie Raser-Rowland with Adam Grubb

If you’ve ever wondered how to enjoy life more while spending less – as I have – The Art of Frugal Hedonism is the perfect guide.

The author, Annie, turns the idea of frugality on its head, showing us that living simply isn’t about deprivation.  It’s about making room for more joy, creativity, and meaningful experiences.

What I loved about this book is the practical advice and refreshing perspective on consumerism. We don’t need to buy more to be happy, instead the authors invite us to rediscover the simple pleasures in life. Whether it’s savoring a homemade meal, spending time outdoors, or reconnecting with community, the book uses countless examples of how to feel richer without actually spending more.

Each chapter is packed with practical tips and, even as a self professed non-consumer, I have already applied some to my day-to-day life.

The insights into how overconsumption actually makes us less happy made me reasses about my habits and belief system. For example, it’s not just about saving money but about freeing ourselves from the exhausting cycle of wanting and buying.

Best of all, the authors are Australian (like me), so I could relate to the many Aussie-isms in the book.

After reading this book, you’ll walk away with ideas for cutting costs without feeling like you’re missing out. From growing your own food, to finding joy in second-hand treasures, or simply rethinking how you spend your time – there are dozens of actionable tips.

Many books about non-consumerism can be somewhat heavy but I found this book to be lighthearted with a fun, conversational tone that felt more like a conversation with a mate.

sustainability books vivienne westwood

Vivienne Westwood
(Autobiography)

Authors: Vivienne Westwood and Ian Kelly

I have long been a fan of fashion designer, Vivienne Westwood, and this hard-to-turn-off audiobook doesn’t just celebrate her iconic designs and contributions to the fashion world, but her relentless activism against fast fashion and environmental destruction.

The book underscores her belief that beauty and responsibility are inseparable. Her legacy is is more than clothing, but an inspiring call-to-action for others to think critically about their choices, whether in fashion or in life.

For anyone passionate about fashion, art, or sustainability, this book is more than just a biography but an essential read that combines inspiration with a call to action. While the book is a vivid portrayal of how Vivienne Westwood lived a life on her own terms by fearlessly pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, it also highlights her commitment to using fashion as a platform for meaningful change.

Through her life, Vivienne Westwood demonstrated how one person, through passion and determination, can influence not only an industry but the world at large. Both artistic genius and social advocate, this book is a thought-provoking read and testament to living boldly, thinking deeply, and creating with purpose.

I loved this book and, as would be expected, Ms Westwood didn’t disappoint with her honesty and frankness.

sustainability books less patrick grant

Less : Stop Buying So Much Rubbish
How having fewer, better things can make us happier.

Author: Patrick Grant

After listening to Patrick Grant narrate his audiobook Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish for the fifth time, I can honestly say that this book has become a cornerstone of my passion for clothes upcycling, teaching others to sew, and reducing my own urge to consume. With each listen, Grant’s message becomes even more urgent and compelling, driving home the need for a profound shift in how we approach consumption and the fashion industry.

The book is packed with eye-opening, jaw-dropping facts about the waste and environmental destruction caused by our modern habits of overconsumption.

Patrick Grant doesn’t hold back! His research and arguments are delivered with the perfect mix of authority and warmth, making it both shocking and deeply relatable.

Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish is the kind of book that makes you want to pause every few minutes to process what you’ve just heard. The sheer scale of the problem he presents requires time to absorb, and even after multiple listens, the urgency of his call to action remains undeniable.

What makes this book truly special is his ability to connect with readers (or listeners) from all walks of life. Whether you’re a maker, artisan, fixer, upcycler, repairer, environmentalist, or just someone who treasures sentimental keepsakes, you’ll find yourself rooting for him. His passion is contagious, and his vision for a more sustainable, thoughtful, and community-driven world is as inspiring as it is necessary. It’s hard not to wish he could step into a leadership role—his ideas are that powerful and practical.

Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish isn’t just a book about reducing waste but a rallying cry for the environment and the survival of local economies. It challenges you to rethink your habits, take action, and find joy in repairing, upcycling, and creating instead of consuming.

If you care about the planet and want to be part of the solution, do yourself a favor and get your hands (or ears) on Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish. It’s not just a book; it’s a revolution, and Patrick Grant is the leader we all need.

Put your hands up and join the movement! This is a must read.

sustainability books project 333 by courtney carver

Project 333
The minimalist fashion change that proves less really is more.

Author: Courtney Carver

Courtney Carver’s book, Project 333, is an inspiring and practical guide for anyone looking to simplify their wardrobe.

Although I already purchase all my clothes second-hand, and upcycle and refashion those that no longer serve their original purpose, this book still taught me valuable lessons about curating a wardrobe that works for me rather than against me.

The premise of the book is to select 33 items of clothing (including shoes and accessories) and wear them exclusively for three months.  Certainly an empowering minimalist challenge!  The author explains that, by paring down, we save time and are able to focus on what truly matters.

Project 333 is a lifestyle shift that encourages mindfulness, intentional living, and breaking free from the relentless cycle of consumerism.

For anyone overwhelmed by the sheer volume of “stuff” in their closet (or life), this book may be the roadmap you require to reclaim time, space, and peace of mind.

For my fast-fashion-loving friends, it was the perfect Christmas gift that I hope will inspire them to rethink their habits and embrace a more sustainable mindset. Here’s to hoping this little book sparks big changes in their lives!

sustainability books the conscious closet

The Conscious Closet
The revolutionary guide to looking good while doing good.

Author: Elizabeth L. Cline

The Conscious Closet is a must-read for anyone looking to transform their relationship with fashion – and I loved it!

This is more than just a prompt to cleaning out your wardrobe, but more importantly, a comprehensive guide for creating a sustainable, ethical, and intentional approach to what we wear.

The book is packed with actionable advice, eye-opening facts, and inspiring stories. I found it incredibly practical and empowering.

Elizabeth L. Cline starts the book by addressing the environmental and social impact of the fast fashion industry, breaking down the devastating effects of overproduction, waste, and exploitation. But, instead of leaving the reader feel overwhelmed and helpless, she offers a roadmap for making meaningful change which starts with our own wardrobes.

From learning how to build a sustainable wardrobe to making better purchasing decisions, she equips readers with the tools to align their personal style with their sustainability values.

What I loved about The Conscious Closet as how it frames fashion as a tool for activism. By making conscious choices, we can support ethical brands, reduce our environmental impact, and contribute to a more equitable industry.

For anyone overwhelmed by the idea of overhauling their wardrobe or unsure where to start, The Conscious Closet is a breath of fresh air.

The Conscious Closet is a call to action for anyone who cares about the planet and the workers who make our clothes. Hopefully, after reading this book, you’ll consider fashion with more intention and purpose. Well worth a read.

More reviews coming soon…

I am always adding new book reviews to this page so make sure you check back regularly for updates.


Clothes Upcycling Workshops and Sewing Classes

Elevate your clothes upcycling skills. Get started on your sewing journey.

Learn clothes upcycling skills so you can refashion old clothes, alter garments to fit and refashion your thrift purchases. My fun and hands-on clothes upcycling workshops include how to make simple clothes alterations through to complete transformations.

Classes are held at my sewing and clothes upcycling workshop in Frenchs Forest on Sydney’s Northern Beaches (near Northern Beaches Hospital).  Private lessons and groups workshops can be held throughout Sydney at a location of your choice.

Scroll down to browse my clothes upcycling workshops and sewing classes below.

$120.00

A hands-on clothes upcycling workshop. 

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$120.00

A hands-on clothes alteration class. 

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$120.00

A hands-on learn to sew class. Maximum 4 people…

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$120.00

Learn how to use your sewing machine with confi…

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$240.00

A private, one-on-one sewing lesson.

$300.00

A personalised, one-on-one sewing lesson.

$70.00

Ideas and tips for giving old clothes new life….

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