My journey into shopping more in a more sustainable way has seen my style improve. Although I love many sustainable brands, addressing my over-consumption of clothes really emphasized the importance of shopping ‘slowly’ and finding my own style.
Even if we only buy out clothes from ‘green brands’ we can still over-consume which has its own environmental issues. Also, if I can't find something I like or something that is not my style it defeats the point.
Having a slow, sustainable wardrobe for me means having clothes you love that make you feel confident. It should be consciously bought, timeless and always look beautiful. An important part of this for me was moving away from trends and 'fashionable' clothes than never looked right on me.
Starting to shop more slowly and consciously along with shopping second hand has really helped me find my style. Where as before I used to look for 'green' alternatives or only shop from brands where I agreed with all there sustainability and ethical criteria now I consider my own style more.
Not every garment can always tick every ethical and sustainable box that I have - and that is ok. Buying from British made or small artisans can be a great way of buying ethically and still having great style. They may not have stringent rules and regs or a big page on their website dedicated to sustainability but if you know who made your clothes that is always a great start.
So much of my wardrobe has now been bought from carboot sales, second-hand shops and vintage and antique places. These can be especially good for shopping for traditionally British country clothing or high quality garments. Wax and tweed jackets last for decades and the look can improve with time.
Also, if you like a particular tweed - don't be afraid of buying oversize and getting something remade to your measurements!
For me learning what I like, what suits me and my lifestyle and not being as strict about where I buy from has helped me develop my style. As a lover of the outdoors, many fashions are not suitable for what I spend most of my time doing; so having clothes that are warm in most weathers, comfy and durable is important for me.
Although I have been starting to add a little more femininity into my clothing and outfits, my love of British country style and traditional cuts and fabrics continues. I want a tweed jacket I can wear for the rest of my life and then give to my daughters and wool hats and white shirts that will see me into my 70's.
No comments
Post a Comment