FASHION

How to Create a Sustainable Festive Capsule Wardrobe

December 01, 2024 in SUSTAINABLE, FASHION

Party season is here and it can be easy to get tempted by shiny fast-fashion solutions to the question “what shall I wear?” At the other end of the spectrum, it can be frustrating to wear the same outfits over and over.

But with a little time, a wardrobe audit and a few sustainable additions, you can easily pull together the clothing you need to help you look good and feel good on every occasion.

Our How to Guide walks you through the process of curating a mini-capsule wardrobe and suggests some garments to include. Check out our other guides for more info on each step.

1. Shop Your Wardrobe

Before shopping, check what you already own. Rediscover hidden gems, reimagine outfits, or revive past favourites with a fresh twist using accessories or layering

2. Borrow or Swap

Consider borrowing outfits from friends or family. Hosting a clothes swap party is a fun way to refresh your wardrobe while keeping it budget- and eco-friendly.

3. Rent for the Occasion

For statement pieces or one-off events, renting is a sustainable option. UK-based online platforms like Hurr, By Rotation, and My Wardrobe HQ offer stunning festive options without the commitment.

4. Shop Second-hand

Visit charity shops, vintage boutiques, or online platforms like Depop, Vinted, or Oxfam Online. You’ll find unique, affordable pieces that reduce fashion waste.

Leeds City Centre shop Tråd Collective sells a fabulous range of second-hand and up-cycled clothing and accessories – as well as sustainable brands like ours!

5. Invest in Timeless Pieces

If buying new, choose versatile items made from sustainable materials. Look for brands with ethical practices like ZARAMIA AVA, People Tree, Thought Clothing, or Reformation. Prioritise quality over quantity.

6. Accessorise Creatively

Transform simple outfits with bold accessories. Use jewellery, belts, or scarves to refresh your look. Supporting local artisans or small businesses adds an extra layer of sustainability.

7. DIY and Upcycle

Get crafty by customising older outfits. Add embellishments, tailor for a better fit, or combine pieces for something entirely new.

8. Think Footwear and Bags

Opt for versatile shoes and bags that pair with multiple outfits. Secondhand shops or sustainable brands like Will’s Vegan Store, Vivaia or Bhava studio are great for finding ethical options.

9. Avoid Fast Fashion Trends

Stay true to your personal style. Trend-led purchases are often low-quality and wasteful. Instead, focus on timeless elegance or vintage charm.

Here’s one take on the festive capsule wardrobe to get you started.

Check what you have in your wardrobe, substitute similar items and consider buying a few pieces from sustainable brands.

1. The Little (Black) Dress

A classic LBD is endlessly versatile but why not break out and choose another neutral colour that you love. Opt for a style with clean lines, such as an A-line or wrap dress, made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, Tencel, or recycled polyester. Dress it up with statement accessories for formal events or layer it with a jumper for casual gatherings.

2. Stylish Trousers

Invest in high-quality trousers in a neutral tone like black, navy, or dark green. These can be paired with festive tops, cosy knits, or a jacket for an elegant yet comfortable look. Look for brands using deadstock or recycled fabrics.

3. Festive Top

Whether you like to make a statement with sequins or prefer something a little more subtle, a festive top can add sparkle to your capsule wardrobe. Choose an ethically made option in gold, silver, or jewel tones that complements your trousers or skirts. Rewear it with different bottoms to create unique looks.

4. Midi Skirt

A flowing midi skirt in a luxe fabric like velvet, satin, or recycled polyester adds a touch of glamour. Opt for a neutral shade (black, champagne, or burgundy) or a bold print to make a statement. Pair it with a knit jumper for daytime or a sequined top for evening events.

5. Statement Outerwear

A bold coat or jacket is essential for staying warm and stylish. Choose a longline coat or a faux-fur cropped jacket made from recycled materials. A piece in a festive colour like deep red or forest green can double as a statement item.

6. Versatile Knitwear

A soft, neutral knit jumper in cream or grey is perfect for layering. Look for sustainable options made from organic cotton or recycled yarns or go second-hand. Layer it over dresses or pair it with trousers for casual gatherings.

7. Sustainable Shoes

• Block-Heel Ankle Boots: Great for outdoor events or when you’re on your feet for hours.

• Elegant Flats or Heels: A metallic or velvet pair can add a festive touch to any outfit.

• Sustainable Trainers: Perfect for casual parties or travel days. Brands like Veja or Allbirds offer stylish and eco-friendly options.

8. Accessories

• Statement Jewellery: A pair of bold earrings or a chunky necklace can transform any outfit. Support local artisans or look for vintage pieces to keep it sustainable.

• Festive Clutch Bag: Opt for a recycled or upcycled design, or choose a versatile bag in metallic tones.

• Belts: A chic belt can cinch a dress or add flair to your trousers or skirts.

Outfit Ideas with This Capsule:

1. LBD + Statement Jewellery + Heels: Classic evening look.

2. Midi Skirt + Knit Jumper + Ankle Boots: Cosy yet chic for a daytime event.

3. Stylish Trousers + Festive Top + Block-Heel Boots: Sophisticated yet comfortable.

4. Knit Jumper + Midi Skirt + Statement Earrings: Casual with a festive touch.

How to Dress for Autumn

September 11, 2023 in SUSTAINABLE, FASHION

As the leaves turn shades of crimson and gold, and the air carries a hint of crispness, it's time to say goodbye to summer attire and welcome the cozy embrace of autumn fashion. Dressing for this transitional season requires a blend of style and practicality. In this blog post, we'll guide you on how to dress for autumn, offering tips and outfit ideas to help you make the most of this beautiful season whilst making sustainable choices.

Layering is Key:
Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so mastering the art of layering is essential. Start with a lightweight, long-sleeved base layer, add a versatile cardigan or sweater, and top it off with a stylish jacket or coat. This way, you can adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.

Choose Earthy Tones:

Embrace the colours of autumn by incorporating earthy tones into your wardrobe. Think warm shades like deep greens, rich browns, burnt oranges, and classic neutrals. These hues not only complement the season but also exude a cozy, autumnal vibe.

Image from Unsplash
Don't Forget About Denim:
A good pair of jeans is a timeless autumn staple. Opt for classic denim in various cuts and washes to create versatile outfits. Pair them with cozy sweaters or dress them up with a tailored blazer for a polished yet comfortable look.

Boots for Every Occasion:
Autumn is synonymous with boots. From ankle boots to knee-highs, there's a style for every occasion. Consider investing in a timeless, durable, pair that you can wear year after year. And don't forget to accessorize with warm socks or leg warmers for extra coziness.

Accessorise with Scarves:
Scarves are both functional and fashionable during autumn. They can add a pop of colour to your outfit while keeping you warm. Experiment with different scarf styles, from oversized blanket scarves to sleek silk options, to match your mood and the weather.

Transitional Outerwear:
An essential part of dressing for autumn is selecting the right outerwear. Opt for a versatile, mid-weight jacket or coat that can take you from brisk mornings to cool evenings. Trench coats, leather jackets, and quilted vests are popular choices. A well-made classic coat will look great for years. Look for an ethically made new item or search out a high quality jacket from a charity shop.

Incorporate Texture:
Autumn fashion is all about texture. Experiment with materials like tweed, corduroy, and knitwear to add depth and warmth to your outfits. A textured blazer or a chunky knit sweater can instantly elevate your autumn style.

Hats and Gloves:
As temperatures drop, don't forget to accessorise with a stylish hat and a pair of gloves. Not only do they keep you warm, but they also complete your autumn look. Consider felt hats, berets, or leather gloves for a chic touch.

Personalise Your Style:
Ultimately, the most important aspect of dressing for autumn is to express your unique style. Mix and match the pieces that resonate with you, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations. Your autumn wardrobe should reflect your personality and make you feel confident.

Upcycle and Repurpose:
A great way to personalise your style, have fun, reduce your environmental impact and save money is to get creative by upcycling your old clothing items. Transform a worn-out denim jacket into a trendy vest or turn an old sweater into cozy leg warmers. Upcycling not only reduces waste but also adds a unique touch to your autumn wardrobe. #Upcycling #RepurposeFashion

Shop Mindfully

Think carefully about what you purchase and where you shop. Opt for clothing made from natural and organic materials like organic cotton, wool, hemp, and Tencel which have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials. Choose ethical outlets and look for certified organic labels, circular fashion and recycled materials.

Autumn is a season of transformation, and you can give your wardrobe a stylish and sustainable transformation too. By shopping mindfully, embracing layers, earthy tones, cosy textures, and essential accessories, you'll be ready to step out into the beauty and coziness of autumn with a clear conscience.

How to Upcycle Clothing

July 04, 2023 in SUSTAINABLE, EDUCATIONAL

Whether you are a seasoned designer, a thrifty fashion enthusiast, or someone looking to make a positive impact on the planet, upcycling clothing offers a world of possibilities.

It empowers us to reimagine the potential of our wardrobes, inspiring us to embrace creativity, sustainability, and a more conscious approach to fashion.

*Photo by* *Utopia By Cho* on *Unsplash*

Our ‘how to’ guide to upcycling helps you dive into the world of upcycling and unlock the hidden treasures in your closet, one stitch at a time.

1. Assess your wardrobe: Start by going through your wardrobe and identifying clothing items that you no longer wear or that are damaged. Look for garments made from materials that can be easily repurposed, such as cotton, denim, or wool.

*Photo by* *Olena Sergienko* on *Unsplash*

2. Gather supplies: Before you begin upcycling, gather the necessary supplies. These may include sewing tools like scissors, needles, thread, and a sewing machine. Additionally, consider collecting buttons, ribbons, lace, and other decorative elements to enhance your upcycled creations.

3. Brainstorm ideas: Let your creativity flow and brainstorm different ways to upcycle your clothing. Think about how you can transform a shirt into a trendy crop top or turn jeans into shorts. Research upcycling projects online or look for inspiration on social media platforms like Pinterest or Instagram.

*Photo by* *Kelly Sikkema* on *Unsplash*

4. Repair and mend: If you have garments with minor damage, like small tears or missing buttons, repair them before proceeding with upcycling. Simple fixes can extend the life of the clothing and make them suitable for upcycling projects.

5. Plan your project: Before cutting or altering any garments, create a plan. Use a sketchbook or paper to sketch out your ideas, note measurements, and visualize how the final product will look. This will help you stay organized and ensure your upcycling project turns out as intended.

6. Get cutting and sewing: Once you have a plan, start cutting and sewing your clothing. Use your scissors to remove unwanted parts or to modify the shape of a garment. Consider adding patches or fabric inserts to give new life to old clothes. Get creative with different stitching techniques to add unique details.

7. Add embellishments: Enhance your upcycled creations by adding decorative elements. Sew on buttons, beads, ribbons, or appliques to transform a plain piece into a statement item. This is your opportunity to add personal touches and make your upcycled clothing truly unique.

*Photo by* *Ratih Mandalawangi* on *Unsplash*

8. Experiment and learn: Upcycling is a chance to experiment and learn new skills. Don't be afraid to try different techniques or combine various fabrics and textures. If something doesn't turn out as expected, view it as a learning experience and adjust your approach for future projects.

*Photo by* *Nathana Rebouças* on *Unsplash*

9. Share and inspire: Once you've successfully upcycled your clothing, share your creations with others. Post pictures on social media, participate in local fashion shows, or organize a clothing swap event to inspire others to upcycle their textiles too. Encourage sustainable fashion practices and promote the idea of reducing waste.

*Photo by* *Anton van der Weijst* on *Unsplash*

Remember, upcycling clothing and textiles not only helps reduce environmental impact but also allows you to express your creativity and create unique pieces that reflect your personal style. Enjoy the process and have fun with your upcycling projects!