By Anna Shoultz
Shops are reopening in London soon, but their online counterparts have been gaining traction since long before the pandemic began.
The societal shift toward getting anything one might need at a moment’s notice has been made only more common by the reduction of other options during recent lockdowns. Fast fashion is now not only popular but might seem like the only option to some.
Now more than ever, themes of sustainability are often brought up, but what does it really mean and how can this goal be accomplished in a way that doesn’t mean spending twice your budget?
Creating a balance
New, sustainable fashion brands are on the rise and offer wonderful options but it should be noted that getting rid of items you already own in the name of sustainability is an action that should be avoided.
Daniel Redford, 28, BA (Hons) in Creative Writing and English Literature at London Metropolitan University, preferred buying clothing online even before the pandemic but cites charity shops as his go-to destination for local purchases.
He especially opts for this sustainable approach when selecting pieces that are not going to be an everyday staple, saying, “I try to shop in charity shops as much as I can for certain items of clothing. It goes to a good cause, it’s cheaper and you can usually find something that’s nicer/more unique than the fast fashion you get in most stores.”
Sustainable fashion at home
The simplest, most effective method yet is one that tends to be overlooked: reusing and refreshing items that are already in your home. This extends beyond fashion to household products and anything you might own that does not yet need replacing.
Daniel references a (fake) leather jacket that was gifted to him by his sister years ago and remains a staple in his wardrobe – worn more frequently, in fact, than a newer jacket that he recently purchased.
Using items like this that are already at your disposal is a great first step toward a more environmentally-friendly approach to fashion.
Re-styling clothes to fit any occasion
Many people ask how they can shop in an ethical manner on a budget, and this is a great question that affects a lot of well-meaning consumers.
Another easy way to sustainably save money and refresh your style? Get creative with mixing pieces you already own in ways that you haven’t thought of before. Look at Pinterest or Instagram for some inspiration and there you go, elevated style that is sustainable for the environment and your wallet.
Shops might not be open at the moment, but small online businesses offering accessories can add to your style without breaking the bank. Etsy shops and other sites that are run by individuals in the community are a great place to start!
Maximilian Frederik van Oordt, 20, International Relations BA at King’s College London University, says that his love for suits means that his fashion has remained relatively consistent, so nearly 80% of his items are repeated.
This sort of happy coincidence rather than active aim is something that he references, saying, “I consider my fashion behaviour to be inherently relatively sustainable due to my item repetition and dislike of shopping.”
courtesy of Maximilian Frederik van Oordt
COVID-friendly style
You might be wondering how you can be safe and conscious of others while still looking put together. Well, masks are an item that does not appear to be going anywhere soon and they can be used to your advantage not only on the basis of health but overall appearance.
Redford mentions that all of the masks that he wears have been given to him by friends and relatives that were given extras by their workplaces. He does, however, prefer a certain style, saying, “ As long as it’s black/grey and has adjustable straps, then I’m a happy shopper.”
Masks are essential items that can be coordinated with your wardrobe or incorporated as a statement piece, whether it be a pop of colour or an interesting pattern. Whatever makes you feel the most comfortable and protected, of course!
courtesy of stock.adobe.com
Leave a Reply