With a new season upon us, I figured it would be a good time to give my wardrobe an audit before preparing for colder days. It’s time for snuggly jumpers and jeans again! I feel like I’ve been waiting for autumn for quite a while in fact, having already gotten back into lunchtime soups and hearty vegetables, as well as thick socks and boots. Bring it on!
This year has been one of my best when it comes to buying ethical fashion too. I’ve been quite minimal with what I buy, and I’ve happened across a few gems along the way (ah, the beauty of thrift shopping!) Reflecting back has inspired me to share my wardrobe based around the places that I got my clothing from, and show that there are many ways to buy more ethically – and that no matter your budget, timeframe, or style, there’s always an option.
Ethical fashion brands
The first and probably most fun channel for new clothes is from ethical fashion brands. Once a brand has my seal of approval, I really enjoy being able to browse their new collections knowing that the pieces I’m picking out are fairly made and respect the environment.
Earlier in the year I had a great spell with Thought Clothing, and am planning on layering my favourite dotty blouse to keep it going into the colder months. Also earlier in the year I brought along my Ruby Moon swimsuit to my holiday in Crete, but sadly this will go into storage (unless of course I go to an indoor pool or spa!)
Other favourites are my big grey sweatshirt from Beaumont Organic, which has been a slouch-time staple and will continue to be, my everyday black dress from Know The Origin, and I’m already getting back into my recycled yarn jumpers from ASOS’ Eco Edit.
Investment pieces
I probably don’t say it enough, but I would be nowhere without the few investment pieces that have been in my wardrobe for some time now. Top of the list is a fitted black blazer from Zara, which must be coming up to its third year of service, as well as a basic black t-shirt and white strap top from H&M. The only new additions to my wardrobe this year that didn’t come from a very ethical place were a pair of grey cigarette trousers from New Look, and a black scalloped skirt from Debenhams, both of which I struggled to source in a better way due to sizing and needing to try both on in store. I’m hoping with time we’ll see more ethical options hit the high street and I won’t need to deviate!
Second hand style
When it comes to second-hand, most of my clothes have come via eBay. Over time I think I’ve gotten better at using the site, and despite missing out on a few beauties (damnit two-seconds-left bidders!) I did pick up a few great pieces. One of my favourites this summer has been a light blue shirt from Jigsaw, which is well made and makes me feel like Zooey Deschanel in 500 Days of Summer every time I pair it with my grey trousers.
I also picked up the above royal blue suede jacket from Stradivarius on eBay, and as it comes up to its one year anniversary in my possession, I’m still really enjoying wearing it. It makes the perfect cycling jacket – sturdy, cropped, and I know it will protect me if ever I fall!
Thrift shop steals
Finally, on to my favourite category – thrift shop bargains! I’ve had a lot of luck when scoping out charity shops, although I’m starting to think that charity shops generally have good items and it just takes a little searching to find them! I picked up my summery white striped strap top (above) from Vero Moda via British Heart Foundation, and the dark blue shirt from Kilo Shop when I was in Amsterdam, which I’m going to continue to wear under my blazer or coat.
I’ve found if you can get your hands on & Other Stories in charity shops that they last well too – I’m still loving my Breton striped top from & Other Stories via Barnardos and the black jumper that Sara Steele picked up for me in our ethical fashion swap.
New additions…
…are coming! I have a few surprises in store when it comes to updating my wardrobe, and will let you know when they’re ready. I’m also looking for good recommendations for winter boots – I’d like a pair that will last for more than one season, but aren’t quite as tough as my vegan Doc Martens!
