The 2022 World Environment Day campaign #OnlyOneEarth calls for collective, transformative action on a global scale to celebrate, protect and restore our planet. (Visit https://www.worldenvironmentday.global for more details)
As I reflect on what this means, I suppose everyone needs to do something to help protect the planet. It feels rather big otherwise doesn’t it?
I don’t want this blog to become a lecture, but we do seem to consume a lot of things don’t we? Imagine if you bought only what you needed so that you wasted less. This could be food, clothes or makeup. It would have an impact for sure.
Everyone is more aware of the need to be more sustainable when it comes to style. But, it may also mean changing our habits too.
I like to think that my services help support this: Wearing things which suit you. Making things work for you if they’re not quite right. Passing them on to others to keep them in circulation.
Here’s my top tips for a more sustainable wardrobe.
1. Choose quality over quantity
If you buy well you buy once! Look for good quality material and well made clothes. These will last longer than fast fashion and cheaper buys made from poor quality material. If you have a lower budget, make sure you spend as much as you can on the key pieces for your wardrobe that you’ll wear all the time. This is where creating a capsule wardrobe really comes in. Revisit this blog Virtual guides – how to create a capsule wardrobe that works for you.
2. Explore pre-loved and vintage
There are so many options available with platforms like vinted and eBay as well as charity shops. If you would like better quality pieces or designers but can’t afford the price tag, these are often the best solution. That feeling when you find something in the perfect colour for you, wonderful quality and which fits beautifully is a winning combination. Knowing you’ve not only grabbed yourself a bargain, but you’ve also helped the planet is a very pleasing experience. In fact, it can be a bit addictive! It’s a great way of clearing your own clutter and making a little money too.
3. Upcycle your existing pieces to bring them up to date
If you’re great at sewing, then this is definitely for you! By changing your clothes to bring them up to date, you have a very inexpensive alternative to spending more money on new clothes you probably don’t need.
You could change the shape of a collar or neckline. Add some braiding, edging or the sleeve or skirt length to make it feel like a new item of clothing. I have had clients who have altered a dress they’ve grown tired of changing it into a top or a skirt. Cut down trousers into shorts. I’ve even upcycled buttons into jewellery myself!
Even if you aren’t adept with a needle and thread, others are. Switch up the buttons on a jacket to make it feel like new. Or, add a brooch which needs no sewing at all.
Another way to alter something is by changing the colour. Gone are the days of prodding clothes around with a stick in a bucket full of dye. Dylon pods can be used safely within the washing machine to quickly switch the colour of your clothes. It’s fun and simple to do, plus their dye is vegan and environmentally friendly. So many clients have taken my advice. £6 on Amazon. (If you make a purchase using this link, I will receive a payment).
4. Hire rather than buy
Before you buy a new outfit for that special occasion, consider renting one instead.
Check out the many rental marketplaces. Hirestreet, Hurr, By Rotation, My wardrobe HQ are all good options. They offer access to a wide range of premium brands at affordable prices.
https://www.hurrcollective.com
5. Take care of the clothes you have
It really will make a difference. If you’re tempted to throw clothes over the bedroom chair, floordrobe or exercise bike, think again. Our clothes are never really as dirty as we think! Try and hang up items you can get another wear out of before throwing them in the wash. Washing at lower temperatures is recommended and simple these days.
6. Be more mindful
Consider each new purchase. Do you already have something similar? Does it fill a gap you have been able to identify? Can it be worn with at least three other items?
Consider them to be an investment as they can last you many years and see many wears. Remember my ‘pounds per wear’ motto. Clothes in the right colour and style for you which fit and flatter your shape will always be the best choices.