Doing more with less –
Making a start as a sustainable fashion shopper.
When it comes to shopping, many of us have become used to finding what we want at a click of a button and having it delivered, if not instantaneously, then certainly within a few working days. When it’s this easy, how much thought is given to the life of the item? Where it came from and where it’ll eventually end up?
Every year in the UK 10 million household items are sent to landfill, with a 1/3 of these fit for reuse according to the Reuse Network. While the quantity of clothing ending up in household bins dropped between 2012 and 2015, the volume purchased over the same period rose by nearly 200,000 tonnes to 1.13 million tonnes, according to a report by the Waste and Resources Action Programme.
So how can we become better consumers of fashion and our clothes, here are some useful pointers to consider:
- Learn to ‘Curate’.
‘Mindful curation’ is about becoming conscious of everything you bring into your home; make sure it has a place. When applying this to your wardrobe take stock of what you already have, identifying those garments that have stood the test of time. For example, look for items with a similar fit or cut that you know suits your body shape and use this insight when buying new pieces to ensure their longevity in your wardrobe. Over time this will help you identify your personal style and reduce the temptation to go for short-term fads.
- Do you really need it?
There is a difference between want and need! Remember my rule of 3: will it last for 3 years, will it create 3 different outfits in my wardrobe today, and can I wear it in 3 different contexts?
- Avoid buying unwanted and faddy gifts.
Why not think about gifting an experience instead of buying something like a scarf that you’re not sure that person needs. There is some evidence to suggest that experiences have the power to make us much happier than material objects.
- Make a list.
Always have a list when you go shopping – if it’s not on your list, you don’t get to buy it!
If you see something you like while you’re shopping for other things, take a picture of it. Then go away and think about it because shopping environments are incredibly seductive and know just how to influence you to part with your money. I know I’ve been caught out in the past.
- Look after your stuff.
We’ve lost the art of taking care of our items. Get to know your local cobbler, tailor and dry cleaner.
These are easy ideas to put into practice, set yourself some targets and see how well you get on.
Or don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need some help!
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