‘2020’ the year that encouraged us to shop sustainably
Can any of us genuinely say that the outfit we thought we were going to wear the most in 2020 was the one that we did? Lockdown 2020 has caused many societal shifts but perhaps, less obviously, it's making us rethink our wardrobes and shopping habits when it comes to our clothes.
Now more than ever, we want clothes that are ethically sourced, look good in person and on-screen (Even if it's just from the waist up.) and stand the test of time. Many brands have been succeeding in fulfilling these requirements pre and during the lockdown and can help in extending sustainable living to our fashion choices.
It's not just retailers though, customers also have their part to play in ensuring the longevity of their purchases. Emma Pinfold Owner of independent Boutique ‘Bond Street to Your Street’ highlights what we should aim to achieve through sustainable shopping. 'One of the key goals of sustainable shopping is to increase the quality of the items you choose to own whilst simultaneously buying fewer items. The most successful and achievable way of doing this is to shop preloved.''
Being selective in your choices and buying looked after second-hand items is always a more sustainable way of shopping than buying new. Thankfully, buying less doesn't mean you have to hold back on your style and creative expression through your outfit choices - quite the opposite! Brands like Bond Street to Your Street sell preloved, top quality, and high class designed accessories at achievable prices.
When you buy higher quality items that you adore, they also last longer. This alleviates the need to replace them often, meaning that you reap the benefits financially in the long run.
With 2020 causing a national tightening of purse strings and a larger emphasis on supporting smaller businesses, sustainable fashion is finally getting the mainstream focus it deserves. This allows us all to see just how easy and important it is for us to achieve longevity and style through our wardrobe choices.