Out with the new, in with the old 🦩
If you want to save the world and look good doing it, check out our tips and tricks to make the most of your sustainable clothing shopping ✨
Reasons to shop Vintage & Second-Hand
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Slow Fashion, Long Lasing 😌
Vintage garb was made to last. The clothes have a much longer lifespan and can be repaired more easily than what you'll typically find new on the high street -
Give an Old Dress a Home 🐶
Did you know that over 350,000 tonnes of clothing goes to a landfill every year in the UK? Or that fast fashion contributes to at least 10% of carbon emissions worldwide - it's the second largest pollutive industry behind oil -
Express Urself 💄
Vintage often means unique. You're unlikely to find the same thing twice in a vintage or second-hand store, and the clothing styles will vary depending on the era they're from -
Affordability 🫰
The draw of fast fashion is the price - it's affordable and that makes it appealing. But you know the saying - buy cheap, buy twice. Vintage and second-hand clothing can be affordable if you look in the right places, and the product will last much longer
10 Tips for Sustainable Shopping
- Know Your Measurements
You can't rely on clothing labels on modern clothing, and sizes have fluctuated over the decades. The size on the label of vintage and second-hand items might not be exactly what you expect when you try them on - so it's worth knowing your cms and inches before you head out - Try Before you Buy
Try the clothing on in-store to check the fit and style before you commit to a purchase - the sizing and measurements might check out, but the the outfit might look completely different on than on the hanger - Button it
Check the zippers and buttons - some might be missing or not working properly. But don't let this stop you from buying something you really want - you can customise it to make it a totally unique piece! Replace missing buttons with quirky, unusual clips or cute heart-shaped buttons - Sole Purpose
As with buttons and zips, always check the soles of shoes for wear - unlike buttons and zips though, a worn sole is not an easy fix -
It's Been Awhile
Check for stains. Some might be easily washable, others might need to be worked a bit more - and some might be a total loss. Get to grips with different fabrics and how to wash them accordingly, but if something has a deep-set stain, don't buy it
- Find Your Fave
Not all shops are made the same - you'll find that some second-hand and vintage stores will appeal more to you more than others. Spend your time in these stores as you're more likely to find something you like - Do the Rounds
These shops aren't like your typical fast fashion high street stores; think primary school jumble sale vibes. It pays off to look in every the section of the shop - you'll often find things hidden where you least expect -
Watch the Weight
Whether you're at a kilo sale, in-store or online, and you are getting a little bit carried away with all the sparkles and fabrics (it happens to me all the time), the cost of your shop can easily add up. Set a budget and stick to it - or stick to it as best you can
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Have an Open Mind
It's good to have a loose plan when you go shopping because the amount of clothing you'll see can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. But remember to keep an open mind - it's unlikely that you'll find exactly what you want, but that's part of the charm of second-hand shopping
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Enjoy Yourself!
Shopping shouldn't be stressful - sustainable shopping is fun and exciting, and a chance to delve into your fashion inspo and really express yourself. Get out there and enjoy it!
For more on sustainable fashion, click here!