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We all love a new outfit, but the pressure to constantly be buying into new trends comes at a massive cost – to our wallets, but also to our planet and the lives of other people! Fast fashion is the business model of mass-producing cheap and low-quality clothing. Often worn briefly and then thrown away. I’m here to tell you my top tips for how to shop sustainably whilst staying stylish.
The fast fashion industry is leaving a devastating global footprint, with the average consumer buying 60% more clothing than they did 15years ago. The low cost of fast fashion is also often enabled by worker exploitation in lower-income countries. Workers (often young women and children) face hazardous conditions and earn low, unliveable wages, contributing to human rights abuses.
The biggest myth about sustainable fashion is that it is too expensive for the average shopper. In reality, buying second-hand is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh your wardrobe, and it often leaves you with lots of unique pieces you won’t find anyone else wearing. Invest in versatile, well-made pieces that will last you longer and will help save money in the long run.
There are many things I love about Exeter, but a big one is the abundance of charity and vintage shops we have! This already gives you ahead start; spending an afternoon exploring these shops is a great way to find unique pieces and support good causes. My personal favourites:
1. British Heart Foundation – Sidwell Street. The holy grail of charity shops; impeccably organised with so much stock! I’m rarely unsuccessful in finding something cute to wear here, and they also have loads of furniture too – I picked up a mirror for my university house recently!
2. Gandy Street Vintage Shops – If rifling through rails upon rails of clothes in the charity shops feels daunting, head to Gandy Street and check out the vintage shops there (Flamingos Vintage is fab!). Whilst the price tag might be slightly higher, all the pieces have been hand-picked for you and are always in great condition.
3. Topsham Devon Air Ambulance Charity Shop – whether you’re already in Topsham or fancy making a trip out of it, Topsham has some fantastic charity shops, with loads of stock and fewer students, you are bound to find something!
If you prefer an online shop, Vinted is the place to be. The possibilities are endless, and it’s often very easy to find pieces from your favourite brands, nearly brand new, that have been uploaded after only a few wears. Be intentional with your searches and use keywords to find hidden gems. It won’t take long for your algorithm to know what you like, and soon your recommended page will be your dream wardrobe. And don’t forget to make an offer to get the best price you can!
One thing about Exeter: we LOVE a formal event. However, formal wear can not only be pricey, but we often don’t get much use out of them. This year, instead of buying a new outfit for every formal event, I’ve been renting them. Not only does this stop me from consuming unnecessarily, but it’s a huge money saver, and allows me to wear dresses that are usually way out of my price range! Websites such as HURR, John Lewis Rentals, Moss Hire, etc. are great and worth a browse.
Check out the new Working Wardrobe project to see if you can find a new to you outfit for your next formal!
I hope these tips prove that switching to a sustainable style is easy, affordable, and helps you feel great about your wardrobe choices.