‘How can we escape the vicious cycle of buy, wear, repeat?’

The fashion industry is changing despite its responsibility for 2.1b tonnes of global CO₂ emissions each year, making it one of the most polluting industries.

But the UK has seen hopeful growth in second-hand sales in 2021, growing by 27.2 per cent.

In an industry where brands are putting out dozens of clothing collections each year, how can we escape the vicious cycle of buy, wear, repeat?

Inspired by September’s pioneering, first of its kind Sustainable Fashion Week that took over Bristol, hosting workshops, a catwalk and clothes swaps, this month’s tip is focused on how to build more sustainable closets.

By examining our own clothing habits, from redefining style, repurposing, repairing and swapping, here are some hints on how to build green closets from local activists and creatives in Bristol’s sustainable fashion field.

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Amelia Twine, co-founder and director of Sustainable Fashion Week, believes that reconnecting people with how they wear their wardrobe is a key first step.

“Get to know your personal style – never make an impulse purchase. Ensure everything you buy is perfect for you and will last for years,” Twine said.

Similarly, Beth, from Reclaimed Craft Bristol, said: “If you find yourself wanting new looks, get creative and find new ways of pairing items that are already in your wardrobe. This also means re-purposing, altering items if you don’t wear them, finding new ways to do so.”

Last week, we teamed up with @LucyandYak for an evening of community and sustainable fashion at the first ever @SustainableFWUK Fashion Show!

We were thrilled to deliver the show’s first section, focused on “Regenerate” fashion. Thank you to all involved – more coming soon? pic.twitter.com/y1HIlaqMKb

— Future Leap Network (@FutureLeapUK) September 30, 2022

Conversations around sustainable fashion can often overlook a key point, that we do not need to buy more clothes but instead can consider repairing what we already have and love.

“There is barely an item of clothing that cannot be fixed, learn how to mend and bring new life into your clothes using your own creativity,” said Beth.

“Buy preloved, always start with second hand. Host a clothes swap if you need a wardrobe refresh, get that retail therapy without the retail,” added Twine.

Lily Rice, creative director at Presca, a Bristol-based sustainable sports brand, suggested trying to know where our garments come from.

“Your money is your vote. If you need to buy a new garment, buy from a brand that not only produces great quality, timeless pieces that will last but who you trust to make the best decisions for people and planet,” Rice said.

“By supporting smaller independents, you signal to bigger brands the change they need to make and help shape the industry in a more sustainable manner.”

All these tips are actionable steps towards staying fashionable, while taking care of our pockets and the planet.

To find out more about Bristol’s thrift shop scene, visit: b247.staging.proword.press/lifestyle/fashion/five-of-bristols-top-vintage-markets/

This piece of independent journalism is supported by NatWest and the Bristol24/7 public and business membership

Main photo: Martin Booth 

Read next:

• Sustainability read of the month: ‘Hope in Hell’ makes justice to its title
• ‘How can we reach net zero when our public transport system is in shambles?’ 
• ‘Bristol can’t be truly sustainable while persistent social inequalities exist’
• Tackling the big questions climate change poses 

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