Shopping sustainably can be hard when you don't have a lot of money. Don't get me wrong, sustainable brands are amazing and what they are doing for our planet is incredible, but the price point their clothing comes with (though justified) is not really affordable for people like you and me.
You could argue that you will have these items for life, but when the price for a T-Shirt is more than my weekly budget, it isn't really a viable option. So instead, the easiest way to not contribute to the tonnes of textile waste that enters landfill every year, without breaking the bank, is to simply buy second hand. Most of the items I buy second hand tend to be under £10, but I might might the exception for something super special.
You can not only get some super funky and unique bits, but you are extended the lifetime of a piece of clothing that would otherwise have made its way into the masses of rubbish we throw away every year.
Win win.
These are my most recent second hand finds which I have been looovinggg.
THE funkiest trousers. The moment I saw them I couldn't resist. Corduroy, stripes and a lil' flare. All for £5! Now I just need to sew on some belt loops so I can make them fit better - any tips?
The top is actually a silk scarf that I found buried in the depths of a basket at an antique furniture store for £2 - I have wrapped it around and tied it at the front (with a little help from a black hairband) and viola! Easy bandeau.
You caught me, the skirt is actually the same silk scarf from the previous outfit. One of the best items you can get is one that can be worn multiple ways, then you'll never be bored of it!
This top is probably one of the prettiest things I own. Fully mesh with a beaded collar and sleeves, it's super delicate and feminine but also a lil' bit spicy. For £1.50, you can't really complain.
Everything I am wearing in this image is second hand. It is possible to build up your wardrobe with pieces that haven't contributed to fast fashion.
The jeans were actually a light grey but I wasn't feeling that, so I dunked them in a tub of black fabric dye and tadaa, new jeans! Only £3.49!
This coat was actually a godsend. I had been on the hunt for one of these jackets for a while, and one day I wandered into British Heart Foundation and there it was. Red, warm, TRESPASS, and it had a goddamn hood. This was a little more expensive than my usual buys at £10, but for a jacket like this, I didn't even hesitate. (*treat yo self*)
The beanie was from a little pop up shop in Falmouth called 'Wild Pony' and was about £2. I'm pretty sure I've worn it on a shoot when the snow started to fall and it kept me from losing an ear or two.
Finally, (even though you can't see it every well) the white jumper underneath is actually a new favourite of mine. £3 and I love it.
When you find something that fits you perfectly, you know it's a sign. These trouser not only fit me perfectly, but did wonders for my bum. I'm down for any clothing that makes me look more in shape than I actually am! £2.49 ain't bad for an instant bum lift.
Finally, what was probably my favourite find of them all. We went into our last charity shop fo the day, not expecting to find much but lo and behold. This beautiful silky slip dress, with lace inserts, a slit and an asymmetrical hem. OoOoOoO boy. You can't help but feeling like a Witch, cackling away at the bargain that appeared as if by magic. £4.50, ASOS, with the tags still on. Don't mind if I do!
(Special shout out to Will for being eternally patient when I want to go into every charity shop we walk past)
Searching for these sort of items can take time and effort. But it's worth it when you find something you love.
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