Even 'fast', 'cheap' fashion can seem a bit unjustifiable when we hear news of a 'double dip' recession. I, for one, feel a bit sheepish hauling bags of clothes home while worried about what the future holds (never mind that I also have to find a way to sneak it all in without my husband noticing!).
That said, to keep our economy strong, supporting the British High Street is good thing. But shopping smart and perhaps rethinking the relationship you have with your wardrobe is good for your wallet and even the environment.
So before you grab your credit card impulsively on a lunch break, take some time to first consider the contents of your wardrobe and develop a 'shopping strategy'. Here's how:
Woman (or man) vs. wardrobe. Stand strong, take a good look and ask yourself honestly to consider which items you actually wear. Take everything you haven't touched in six months and put it in a pile.
Take notes. Look at what is left in the wardrobe - write down all the characteristics of the clothes. Colour? Stripes/no stripes? Mostly trousers? Jeans? Dresses? High heels or flats? Now look at that paper in your hand - this is the story of your personal style. Next time you go shopping use that piece of paper to guide you towards the stripes that flatter you and away from the bright purple patent handbag.
Earn money from the 'no pile'. Speaking of that purple patent bag....I recently splurged at an outlet store in Rome on a shiny, lavender, Versace hobo bag. Definitely not my style. Definitely too expensive. And now this gorgeous piece sits in my wardrobe unworn. Lucky for me I work for a pre-owned luxury fashion website, Vestiaire Collective, and can sell the handbag to someone much better able to pull off Versace. You can too. There are, in fact, many ways to recoup your initial shopping investment - from selling online to visiting consignment shops. It's a great way to keep the economy ticking and your bank account healthy.
Recycle what's left. Definitely consider whether the clothes in good condition could be resold at a charity shop such as Oxfam. You can also unload your unwanted clothing and help your favourite charity by working with a textile recycling company such as BCR Global that will send you bags and then schedule FedEx to pick the items up. They work with many charities such as the Breast Cancer Campaign.
Consider the environment. There are a lot of fantastic resources these day that help you understand, appreciate and value the items you buy. Livia Firth has a wonderful website called Eco-Age that is a good first step in understand what 'eco' shopping is all about.
Now you have room in your wardrobe, a few extra pounds in your pocket and a clear conscience!