Making an effort to preserve the Earth means more than recycling plastic waste. We need to educate ourselves on sustainable brands and practices to adapt a lifestyle that will help reduce energy, waste and harmful toxins. Tania Arrayales, of @sustainablystylish, has created a sustainable lifestyle by being mindful of her fashion choices, food, and waste. She purchases local produce, composts, and steers clear of plastic. Keep reading to see some of the reasons why we’re excited to feature her in this month’s People We Love.

When shopping, I always look for…
Well made items that are in neutral colors and can be worn for years/most seasons.

My go-to vintage store is…
Ooh that’s hard. Location wise: Housing Works West Village (two blocks from my home), Awoke Vintage in Brooklyn for unique items and Beacons Closet for designer.

The biggest challenge I find in educating people about sustainable living is…
That most people don't see their impact right away, so they give up or that they are only doing it to look or seem mindful, but in reality don't care. Greenwashing can also be done by consumers.

My favorite Laundress product is…
The Wash & Stain Bar.

You’d be surprised to know that I…
I didn't buy ANYTHING for a year and volunteered once a week for almost a year!

My most favorite consignment find is…
A Chanel sweater vest and YSL booties.

To me, sustainable fashion means…
Caring about how your decision impacts others and the environment. It also means being conscious on how you spend your money and who you support.

The one thing I can’t live without is…
I don't think I have a thing. I could not live without my pup Marley.

My advice for people who want to live a sustainable life is…
Just start! Even if it's something small, it matters. Also, figure out what works for you. What worked for me might not be a good fit for others and that’s okay.

I liked to wind down by…
Being home with my boyfriend George and my pup Marley plus a nice glass of Pinot Noir.