Black Friday is here, and it's bad news for the planet. The fashion industry is set to offload thousands of tonnes of clothing this weekend, as we're encouraged to forget about what already sits in our wardrobes.
But we really should consider the impact of our shopping habits on the planet this weekend. With more than two tonnes of clothing bought each minute in the UK and the average lifetime of a garment only 2.2 years (Oxfam), our wardrobes are already brimming with clothes we hardly wear.
There is another way, and it's called the slow fashion movement.
Make this Friday 27th that little bit greener and renew your existing wardrobe instead of buying new.
According to Fashion Revolution, up to 25% of each garment’s carbon footprint comes from the way we wash and care for our garments. There are many reasons why we might fall out of love with or no longer wear an old favourite. Whether we've found a hole or tear in a jumper or picked up a pre-loved gem in a vintage shop in the wrong size, it might seem tempting to replace the item. But we believe that every piece in our wardrobe has the potential to become a favourite again, so before you throw it out or replace it this weekend, consider your mending and restoring options. The possibilities are truly endless, so simply request a quote to one of our seamstresses and re-discover your wardrobe. 1. DETOX YOUR LAUNDRY
Laundry is a key part of any laundry maintenance routine, and over-washing is one of the main reasons why our clothes might fade, shrink, or lose their shape. Washing too often will age a garment prematurely by causing the fibres to deteriorate faster. Think twice before sending delicate items to the dry cleaners. This is damaging to our clothes and the planet – not to mention it will be returned to you in plastic. Instead, we recommend using our specialist range of eco-friendly, vegan and wonderfully fragranced detergents. 2. REPAIR & RESTORE
3. ALTER TO GET THE PERFECT FIT
Whether you've inherited a fabulous jacket, or stumbled upon something unusual unique in a charity shop, the best way to give it new life is to tailor it for the perfect fit. By altering and refreshing an item already in circulation, you are keeping that garment out of landfill and getting more from your wardrobe.
You know the drill, request a quote and reinvent your outfits.
Trying your best to buy less but crave a fresh look? Expanding your wardrobe doesn't have to mean buying new.
Next time you just need that dress for a special occasion, browse your local second-hand shop, or consider renting. You are more likely to find a unique piece this way!
We love Hurr, By Rotation, and OnLoan. You could also do a clothes swap with friends or family to refresh your wardrobe and get your hands on that piece you've been eyeing up.
5. PRACTICE GOOD STORAGE HABITS
Our hard-working clothes deserve to be looked after between wearing, and practising good storage habits can go a long way to increase the lifespan of our wardrobe. Correct storage of your items can save you time and money invested in moth-related damage. We suggest storing clothing made of natural fibres in clear plastic airtight bags – ideal if you can reuse your freezer bags for this. Get a subscription to our Natural Moth Deterrent Fragrance Bags: these are super effective at deterring moths through a blend of lovely natural fragrances including lavender, patchouli and eucalyptus – all the things moths hate!
