A Lesson in Sustainable Fashion

Thrifting is very in, and so is protecting the environment. Siena's new Free Use Closet will help Saints do both.

Donations of clothing, shoes and accessories were accepted April 22 to celebrate Earth Day. Siena has hosted pop-up closets on campus several times in the past, but starting this fall, this will be a specifically committed space with regular hours for shopping and for dropping off donations of gently used items. It's located on the first floor of the Sarazen Student Union, across from the Student Accounts office.

The Closet will stock up-to-date casual, business and dressy attire for women and men, along with shoes and accessories. Laurie Naranch, Ph.D., department chair and professor of political science, has lectured regularly on the politics of clothing, and has been working with Samantha Faiella '09, associate dean of students, to organize efforts to open the shop.

Kira Forget '28 joined fellow members of Siena's Women's Club to unpack dozens of bags of donations and get them smoothed out and displayed on racks.

"Our generation is very concerned with where our clothing comes from and how it's made," said Forget. "It's important for us that fashion be sustainable, and that clothing items that are no longer needed stay out of landfills. It's also nice to think that each pre-owned item has a personal story behind it."

Danayah Garrity '29 helped out as well and agreed that many Siena students are committed to sustainable fashion.

"Like all college students we're interested in fashion trends," she said. "Siena's Free Use Closet will be a place where you can find nice looks but in a much more accessible and sustainable way."

The formal dress that was worn for a special event, the jacket that rounded out a job interview ensemble, or the heels that just don't hit right for you anymore but would look great on someone else can all be found at the Closet. And free means free - just come in this fall and select a few things you like, or donate what's just taking up extra space in your own closet.

Siena has named a CURCA Summer Scholar to help organize the Free Use Closet and get it ready to open for the fall semester. Thanya Chavali '28 will make connections on campus and in the Capital Region to launch operations.

Any questions, or want to donate some items? Contact [email protected] or [email protected].