Photography: Egle Vasi
Model: Elisha Green
Make up and hair: Chantelle Moody
Styling: Jennifer Lovell and Marianne Cantelo.
How do you get dressed every day? Have you inspired yourself with the bi-annual fashion shows and planned for the months ahead, meticulously arranging outfits? Do you linger on your way past shop windows and dip in, refreshing what you have with the trends? Or do you choose versatile timeless classics when you see them, curating a capsule wardrobe that will take you anywhere?
Perhaps like most of us, you glance at your wardrobe in despair, thinking that any of the above is utterly pointless, because you live in the UK. This last month has proven, more than ever, that a British wardrobe needs to match an unpredictable, contrarian and capricious weather system. However, doesn’t this make for a disorganised, incoherent closet? Is this why our island fashion is known for its eccentricity? We shouldn’t lose heart though, we love small-talking about the weather, so why not use the national expertise on the quirks of meteorology and put ourselves back in control?
When it’s ‘raining cats and dogs’ are you in possession of a ravishing raincoat? Not the kind in pink, purple, or turquoise with multiple zips and a hood that folds up under a velcro fastened pocket. A perennial trench coat or mackintosh, well cut, beautiful lining and details, light enough to layer over summer dresses in monsoon-like showers, capacious enough to pop on over a chunky knit?
‘It’s brass monkeys out there’ but we don’t care. If you stock up medium weight knitwear in bold prints, it's a cheerful way to keep the sunshine close to your heart, even when it’s March and spring has decided to have duvet day for an extra two months. On autumn days, with cooler evenings, use your knits under your light summer dresses.Whimsical, practical, quintessentially British.
‘Blowing a gale’? There’s a reason that tweed and fine wool have been a staple for the countryside for a few hundred years. Its unique insulation factor means that it’s a great layer to barricade you against the wind, but if the temperature changes, you stay cool, or keep warm. Don’t feel that you have to choose traditional colours for this must have staple, the juxtaposition of a heritage inspired fabric with radical colours is the epitome of idiosyncratic UK chic.
‘It’s Bloody Baltic’ - with a nod to Autumn/ Winter trends but a great dollop of admiration for the humongous cape, or blanket-size scarf can work for you all year round. Thank you to those authors of various depressive romantic heroines for writing this useful garment into our imaginations. You leave the house in April with frost on the ground and by lunchtime you’re indulging in an impromptu picnic in your local park in blazing sun. Said item will double up as a useful alfresco dining accessory and defender against a damp bottom, but adding drama and sculptural excitement on the greyest of dull winter days.
‘Shepherd’s Delight’ incoming? A red sky heralding a bright sunny day, or red eyes from the night before, means that sunglasses should be in every resident of Britain’s bag. No need to wear them on your head and keep your skiing goggles for skiing- we’re talking eyewear that is the perfect combination of frivolous and protective. More Holly Golightly than Hooray Henry, more Lady Penelope from Thunderbirds (hugely underrated fashion icon), than Honourable Harriet.
Is it ‘biting’ out there? Protect your toes with a pair of cleated boots, raising your feet and insulating them from the floor with footwear that has the double value of adding edge to a feminine ensemble, while stopping you from sliding on ice, or into puddles.
These simple additions to your wardrobe will enable you to ‘Be Prepared,’ watchwords of that other eccentric, but upstanding British institution, preparing us for our kaleidoscopic, vexing but much loved weather in style.
]]>Convincing the psyche that this is the season for new beginnings takes a ridiculous amount of willpower- it’s grotty and chilly and days are short and vile. Up until the mid 18th century New Year in the UK began on the 25th March, time of euphoric spring blossom, burgeoning bulbs and splashier sunshine- it makes sense doesn’t it? If you want to make permanent positive changes and ‘rebirth’ yourself, pick a season where the odds aren’t stacked against you?
Since we’re now stuck with this illogical Gregorian calendar and most of us can’t afford the luxury of warmer climes, boosting motivation now seems a priority to avoid complete stagnation until spring. Christmas was momentarily effective in cheering us up, with its sparkle and sensuality, but overindulgence makes you feel stodgy and stale. Isn’t it time to time to inject some new Vitamin C(lothes) and Serotonin into our lives?
You’ve probably heard of ‘Dopamine Dressing’. It’s a beautiful thing dressing like a bird of paradise every day. However, just like dopamine, it’s addictive but not necessarily sustainable being that ‘high’ all the time. You might also not want to be known as ‘that person who fell into a bag of skittles.’ You love clothes, but want to wear them, rather than them ‘wear’ you. If you want serotonin style on the other hand, it’s a lot more subtle but still fun- it’s a mood that you can take anywhere, simply.
You can bring light into your look, from the moment you put on your knickers in the morning. Sheer clothing and visible underwear, is a reoccurring nod to the nineties that’s very ‘now’. Choose bras in vibrant contrasting colours that are designed to show and peek through. Even if they don’t, just being aware of a more lively set of underwear will keep your spirit elevated throughout the day. Similarly, a satin camisole in a candy colour, under a cosy cardigan is a lustrous layer that references coming spring flowers, poking through heavier earth.
Upgrade your hosiery with socks and tights that are also designed to be seen. Classic skirts and trousers, enhanced with ‘pick me up’ pops of colour that create flashes of sunshine as you walk. When you feel mentally exhausted and your posture is drooping, you’ll see your feet and can’t help but prop yourself back up again and stride with new energy. Similarly one bright staple piece, like a sunshine yellow, or grass green skirt, is endlessly versatile with blouses, knits, tailoring and simple sweats.
Invest in a ‘Pre-Spring’ coat. This is a warm coat in a classic cut, but with a bright ‘wake the f**k up’ colour or print in a ‘fresh’ tone distancing you from richer, weightier colours. You can dress in head to toe black, chuck on this coat and you are transformed, work ready but bold and cheerful- perfect with denim on the weekends.
There’s plenty of practical boots, sneakers and shoes in acid bright or neon colours that are smile inducing but still sophisticated when paired with traditional neutrals. These will take you right through to the season of sandal wearing- a classic shape in a vibrant colour that won’t date but will always delight.
Perhaps the simplest serotonin staple is a beautiful statement bag. There are plenty out there with witty motifs and designs- time to dig out your vintage Lulu Guinness? Choosing a bag that is a conversation piece, promotes connection and laughter! Whether you embrace the ‘toy’ trend, gladiatorial chain embellishment, or opt for a retro shape, turning an ‘essential’ everyday item into a source of constant pleasure requires minimum effort- pure joy, swinging on the end of your arm!
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‘What factors impact a city’s style? What makes such style unique? Is it the history? The choice of shops available?
‘Having previously worked in Bath for many years, and now living in Bristol, I am in a good position to explore the differences between the prevailing fashion choices in both of these wonderful cities.
‘Despite being so close in distance, there are marked differences between the way in which occupants of Bath and Bristol choose to present themselves. Bath to me seems more reserved, stylish, understated - picture an elegant lady dressed in earth-tone cashmere or linen, or a man dressed in rich colours and a tweed jacket. That is not to say you don’t often see young and more fashionably “trendy” individuals - more than 20,000 of Bath’s inhabitants are students - but the overriding sense of style is more put-together and polished. Could this be because it is one of the most prosperous places in the UK? Or is it the rich history of the city which attracts such fashion choices?
‘Bath is a well-known destination for tourists and students alike - a city full of beautiful architecture and interesting history but also one with one distinct central “hub”. The city centre is where most people that visit the city congregate, and also the location of most of the city’s shops and restaurants. A majority of shops are popular high-street chains such as Urban Outfitters, H&M and Primark, and these limited choices might play a part in the style-choices of the city’s occupants.
‘On the whole, Bristol’s style is very different to that of Bath and in my opinion such style is more experimental and objectively “interesting”. Not only is Bristol much bigger than Bath - home to over 460k people compared to 101k in Bath, it is a melting-pot of different cultures which brings with it an exciting and eclectic mix of fashion. It has various distinct areas, each of which have an individual feel and overriding style which, to me, is reminiscent of the interesting differences between areas in London (on a much smaller scale).
‘There are of course parts of Bristol that reflect Bath’s prim and proper style (Clifton is notoriously similar to Bath) - but the difference in the style and feel of parts of Bristol such as Stokes Croft, Easton, Bedminster and Clifton is staggering and part of what I really love about living in Bristol myself.
‘Whilst Bristol’s city centre is also home to similar high-street chains, there are a generous amount of independent shopping areas dotted all over the city, giving people the option to explore, and shop, wherever suits them best. There are also an incredible number of charity shops located in Bristol - I can count 4 on one end of North Street alone - which means there really is something for everyone.
‘There are aspects of both cities that inspire my style - I love the simplicity and luxurious feel of Bath, and try to channel more of the original and experimental flavour of Bristol in my outfit choices. Needless to say, the beauty of style is that it is an ever-changing and you do not have to mould yourself to one particular choice - you can grow, rotate and explore your options, taking inspiration everywhere you go - and how lucky are we to live so close to two such different, but equally wonderful, cities?’
What do you think? Are you more Bristol, or more Bath in your style choices?
]]>'Is it possible to love clothes without contributing to the negative side of the clothing industry?'
'It is difficult to avoid hearing about the toxicity of the clothing industry, with fashion production making up 10% of carbon emissions, and a purported 50% of fast-fashion clothing being discarded within a year of purchase.
'Up until the start of 2022, I was definitely guilty of contributing to the toxic fast-fashion movement - spending hours browsing one of the many unscrupulous online retailers to find an outfit for an event or for an item that I had seen somebody else wear that I just had to have. The convenience of cheap next-day delivery and the thrill of receiving your parcel (especially in the days of monotonous home-working) was difficult to resist.
'I (wrongly) thought that I could offset my fast-fashion purchases by donating them to charity after they’ve been worn once - or not at all.'
'Fortunately, I now know that less than 30% of charity shop donations hit the shop floor, as charity's struggle to sell cheap fashion brands. The quality just doesn't stand the test of even a few washes and the styles are often too trend led, to work into people's every day wardrobes. Literally 'throw away' fashion. Although charities receive 'rag' money per kilo from rag merchants who sell on to other countries, you can imagine the tons and tons of waste clothing now circulating in the system and the carbon footprint of these clothes being transported around the world.
'At the start of 2022 therefore, I decided to set myself a goal to go a whole year without buying “new”. I decided instead to buy only secondhand, rent clothes or borrow from friends, and most importantly to wear what I already own. For the most-part I have stuck to my goal (save for a couple of pairs of shoes which I do find tricky to buy secondhand).
'Whilst this new approach to buying and wearing clothes has massively changed my attitude towards the clothing industry and my habits around buying clothes, one thing that I have not yet been able to combat is the level of “new-to-me” clothes I buy. I frequent my local charity shops in Bristol several times a week and it is rare that I don’t return with one or two (or three, or four) new items to try.
'It satiates my desire to buy “new” clothes without the guilt of buying into the destructive fast-fashion industry, but I am well aware that I am still consuming far more than is necessary.'
'It is also now apparent that many online second hand sellers buy from fast fashion outlets new items in the sale, in order to resell them online for profit - this means that in some cases second hand selling is actually continue to drive this irresponsible side of the fashion industry.
'This then poses the question, 'how can I love clothes without contributing to the negative side of the clothing industry?' Surely shopping, even charity-shopping, should be about buying things that make you feel great long term - not just a fun pastime and dopamine hit? We need to combat this over-consumption and eliminate the need to always be wearing something different - but how do we go about changing this way of thinking?
'I think a positive way that we can begin to change our habits is firstly by going through our own wardrobes to re-discover (and in my case, discover) what we already own - to donate what we no longer love, or what no longer suits, or fits us. We can then highlight key areas in which we may be lacking so that we can shop with purpose in order to find real gems that we love and that slot perfectly into our wardrobes. Think “capsule wardrobe” with a bit more flexibility. I happily spend time now going through my wardrobe collating different outfits out of items that have been sat in there for years - at times, unworn.
'I love experimenting with wearing these items in different ways; wearing a dress as a skirt, a skirt as a top, layering, tying, turning around, sewing (I am still learning this one).'
'Even when shopping for these special items that we need to fill a gap in our wardrobes, charity- shopping should be our go-to. Charity-shopping can be such a mindful and rewarding way of adding to your wardrobe, you have to really earn your purchases by spending time hunting for the gems. Nowadays a lot of charity shops (such as Dorothy House) have online shops too, which means that this way of shopping is accessible even for people without the luxury of time to spend browsing in-person. More often than not you find amazing “one-offs” that aren’t necessarily just following fashion-trends - which now seem to go out of fashion quicker than you can say “low-rise jeans” - (please no!!).
'This allows you to discover your own style and wear clothes that suit your body-shape and personality.'
'It is clear that there is a long way to go before any real change occurs in the clothing industry, but on an individual level we can each alter our habits and be more mindful in the way in which we shop and consume fashion. I think that in doing so, not only can we help to make positive changes to battle the environmental impact of the clothing industry, but it can also allow us to love clothes in a different and more positive way.'
Thaks Eliza, a very thoughful post- let us know what you think too!
]]>'Whether we choose to brave the airports, opt for a staycation with an excruciating petrol cost per mile, or embrace our Bath pavements and terraces this summer, we can rely on our strong traditions of making stylish- hay while the sun shines!
'It’s endearing how we British transform with the fewest of rays, sloughing off our layers like butterflies bursting from cocoons, our subconscious fear of risk of a drenching from an unexpected downpour adding frisson to the air, even in the sunniest climes. We are different creatures in holiday mood, a little bit of a tan, a few freckles (a lobster red back) makes us riskier, more fun and more adventurous with our fashion choices
'Add to that, even if you stay at home, Cool Britannia, epitomised by pints of lager and parkas in the parklife, is getting quite a bit of competition from La Dolce Vita these days- think Aperol Spritz with statement scarves and sunglasses instead.
'The simple replacement of the pub picnic bench with individual chairs and smaller tables, has somehow influenced our summer home style evolution into a state that rivals our European neighbours.'
'A lovely side-effect of public health concerns is that in the UK we have adopted a café and bar culture with more outside seating, umbrellas and table service. Hurray! Have we created more opportunities for lazy people watching and some self-indulgent (but oh so fun) statement dressing, in the sunshine between the clouds? Bath’s Palladio inspired architecture makes an incredible backdrop to this ‘guilty pleasure’ hobby, our city really feels like it’s in Italy- the hazy views of the hills, the restaurants and boutiques, the multitude of designer pooches… i
'Embracing the Dolce Vita feeling, adds the opportunity for some cinematic dressing that is perfect for the longer days- brighter colours, voluminous shapes, dramatic cuts that change and shift with the light.
'1950s style dresses paired with little statement jackets to keep off the morning chill, perfect for post-office drinks or date night later.'
Corseted figure-accentuating tops with high-waisted, ankle grazing trousers that show off statement sandals and colourful court shoes. With a sharp lightweight blazer, this look is great for the office, take it off and you are ready for your Vespa!
'Pattern and texture clashing is a particular Italian skill, with Gucci and Etro leading the way- use their editorial ads to inspire you, pull together different prints by weaving colours and tones through the look, to create looks that are unique but never garish. Stripes and florals, paisley with flocked satin, top to toe tonal in leather, light cashmere and silk- bellissima!
'If you like to float around and want to be simpler, a gorgeous Pucci or Versace inspired kaftan or off the shoulder maxi dress is easy chic, metallic gladiator sandals upping the glamour stakes and a leather jacket draped on the shoulders for cooler evenings.
'Even your casual wear can have a dash of Dolce- your denim jeans paired with a capacious straw bag, a scarf tied on to make it your own and over-sized pair of sunglasses adding instant glamour.'
'In fact, the scarf is the most Roman Holiday item of them all- for your hair, your neck, your bag, through your belt loops, it adds instant personality to any look! If you want to dip your toe in this most refreshing and delicious of vacanza styles, give it a splash now!'
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This month's post is our unedited fashion feature piece for Bath Life Magazine on how to dress for events!
Awards season is upon us! How clever the fashion world is, unleashing all the inspirational glamour for dressing up on the Couture catwalks. Conveniently, they are just in time to tempt the world’s most famous celebrities into showing off their finest creations on the Awards red carpet in the Spring!
‘So what?’ How many opportunities do real people have to dress up, to walk the red carpet?
Many companies have recognised achievement with their own Awards, knowing that dressing up and letting loose, bonds staff and promotes goodwill and enthusiasm for their values. I would hasten to point out, that at some point you have been invited to a Great Gatsby themed, or Studio 54 birthday party- we want to wear beautiful, madly opulent things, even if we aren’t getting an award. Bath is the architectural equivalent of a silk ball gown- we owe it to our city to keep dressing up, to paint the town ‘red carpet’.
With these opportunities to dress up and with body positivity not set to go away, fashion houses like Valentino are making it easier for real people to see beautiful statement gowns that inspire. As our A-list role models becoming more diverse, designers have been forced to open their eyes to what consumers want. This year Valentino’s ten house models reflected the bodies of today’s role models, not the typical size zero model- beautiful, diverse, relatable bodies.
Of course, Valentino still maintains an approach to dressing which is traditional and elegant- the beauty of red carpet dressing today, is that all the previous rules are there to be broken if you like. The Viktor and Rolf show was about exaggerated shoulders and though some were frightful, there were face framing collars that would flatter, with show stopping eccentricity that works for the red carpet.
How do you find the perfect garment for elegant dressing, or rule-breaking, when most shops don’t get party wear until September? The easiest way to experiment and find out what might suit, is to explore vintage shops. The Yellow Shop in Bath stocks incredible pieces all year round. If you feel like wearing Dr Martens and tulle, or trainers and breaking the rules like a ‘noughties Lily Allen, you’ll find everything you need there. If you wanted to mimic the Jean Paul Gaultier show, you could easily find voluminous skirts and blouses in Jack and Danny’s (just speak to Sheila and she’ll find you what you need) and then layer over clean-lined corsetry by ‘What Katie Did,’ keeping it from looking ‘costumey’ by choosing single tone colours. It’s also super simple to find jewel-like clutch bags in charity shops all year round- if you see one you love, get it- then it will be ready for when you need it!
Another trick is to layer tulle skirts in the vein of Giambattista Valli, wearing one skirt as an off the shoulder voluminous top. DorothyHouse.Shop has some incredible full circle ball gowns, maxi skirts and quirky LBDs- buy a larger size and with the money that you save on the dress, pay for alterations that contour and flatter.
Look in carefully curated boutiques like Maze. In their sale you’ll find individual pieces from last season, that are red carpet ready for today. I love their blouson sleeved ‘Selected Femme’ sequin dress for an easy glamour. Grace & Mabel, have a beautiful array of dresses that are ‘rule breakers’, the Stine Goya Ilona dress is an incredible statement piece well as the ‘Jordan’ sequin tulle. Don’t forget the chill in the air and layer up your gown with faux fur. Regular visits to Portman, will be rewarded by original Italian made coats that are bold and beautiful and very unique.
The key to getting the right look and feeling comfortable at Awards, is experimentation. Try on a lot of things, try on things you normally wouldn’t. Take an honest friend with you and look at their face when they see you, don’t listen to what they are saying! Don’t feel embarrassed about your big try on session and even if you prefer to try at home, explain to the retailer what you are doing and they will be very understanding about returns. Just like choosing a wedding dress, you are looking for the ‘one’, even if it’s the ‘one,’ for one night.
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Our latest blog post is the full version of our trends article for Bath Life Magazine where our latest shoot made front cover. Photographer Egle Vasi, Make Up by Chantelle Moody, Styling by Team .shop. Venue The Curfew Bath, socks by Worship the Ground.
Does anyone else feel like fashion at this time of year is a downhill race through the same old themes, with a hideous Christmas jumper at the finish line and then nothing to do until spring?
It can start off fairly well in the autumn with the promise of cosy, (if predictable) new coats and a tasteful palette referencing nature’s fading beauty. The sorts of ‘gram looks where someone manages to take an excellent photograph of you from far away walking the dog and looking wholesome, or of you drinking a cup of tea holding the mug with two hands, in some rustic Scandi knitwear. You feel like Diane Keaton, or Sally in ‘When Harry met Sally’ and that’s just great, even if your partner does mock your neck tie, non-prescription glasses and tiny pumpkin collection that you have no intention of eating.
Then October 31st actually arrives and all good taste is just thrown out of the window. Everyone else is doing it, so you succumb to peer pressure- you can’t dress up as Diane Keaton again anyway, so you make the decision to dress up as a version of Cher or Madonna or Lady Gaga in various incarnations. The next few weeks are probably just a horrible style ‘come down’ from that one night of horror. It just feels weird to go back to wearing tasteful autumnal things after dressing from the circus- you’re just waiting for the only option left for the year, sequins and glitter!
Having dressed as a Christmas bauble for almost eight weeks solidly, a Christmas jumper feels quite conservative I suppose. Argh, it’s so predictable. It’s always the same.
Or is it? This year, it seems that fashion designers have invited us to participate in a series of trends that are completely unexpected. It feels like there is an opportunity to express your own individuality- picking and choosing from ideas that are ‘new’ but when mixed with your style, are completely unique to you and your mood, you may even find that you’re not bothered about spring at all!
Take for example the amount of looks on the catwalk that used a colour palette that we might more commonly associate with spring or summer- bright yellow, bold blue, flamingo pink anyone? Your favourite summer dress might just be perfect for now! Try layering it over it a contrasting polo neck or blouse and keep your bare legs warm, with socks or tights that are add another pop of colour and keep your look fresh.
Similarly, the jumpsuit trend persists. By layering over fine knits, interesting blouses with volume, or again the classic polo, an old favourite you thought you were going to put away remains in circulation. Swap your sandals for ankle boots and you’ve got a versatile piece that is working hard all year round.
Another piece that we love the return of, is the mini skirt. There’s a lot of debate about ‘how old is too old?’ So this particular item is the equivalent of the middle finger to annoying people isn’t it? We recommend wearing it if you have legs that are, well, just legs. You’ll look great. For purely practical purposes, again, great socks and tights will keep you cosy.
Of course, if you feel more comfortable with a bit of length, it’s pleasing to know that pleats remain prolific, we love an over-sized knit on top of a pleated midi with knee high boots- you can’t beat swirling away on a windy day.
If you are a seventies lover then there are so many nods to this fantastic decade. Massive flares are back but top tip, wear them cropped to the ankle and avoid the dreaded ‘seep’. Not so fond memories of having damp flappy bellbottoms on wet days and let’s face it, we do live somewhere which is so spectacularly green and lovely because of an irritating amount of rainfall.
Talking of rain, the over-sized mac has made a welcome return- think Meg Ryan as ‘Sally’ again, not so much Melanie Griffiths in ‘Working Girl.’ These are amazing if only because they are big enough to go over the jumpsuit, over the chunky knit, over the mini or midi skirt, over the massive flares and then whatever else you choose to stop you freezing your proverbial off while looking gorgeously uniquely you. Make sure you look in the men’s sections of the charity shops as you’ll find some classic tailored bargains there for sure, alongside many brilliant versions of the pieces mentioned above!
Happy style hunting!
]]>'While restrictions are being loosened up, we feel more at ease and with rapid speed forget about the pandemic. No one really wants to remember it when we finally can enjoy the pleasures of going out and to be free again. Almost. There is still the dread of another wave coming soon. In fear of another lockdown, and sudden cancelling of events and flights, everyone tries to live from day to day.
'And so, many people, not only young as one could think, are trying to make out as much of this time as possible in one way or another. Whether it’s a meeting with friends in safe environment, going to the cinema, partying, or simply enjoying eating out, one will always want to put something finer than usual. After all, just by wearing more elegant clothing we can cheer ourselves up, and simply feel better.
'It’s not a coincidence or a whim that during lockdown lots of people while taking part in online events or video calls with friends dressed up to distinguish this special time while still being at home. We all know that what we wear has quite an impact on our mood and behaviour.'
'So whether you’re still shielding yourself at home, or going out to have some fun – stop for a moment, and think about what to wear to make yourself feel fabulous. Here are some tips that will help you to stand out, and go with latest trends in fashion while looking through your wardrobe or local charity shops. You can invest in a good time, without being out of pocket.
'Classic beauties'
The Little Black Dress will never go out of fashion. Lately, I’d say we can observe quite the opposite – lots of shops make it fashionable again just by adding here and there some lace, sparkling sequins, or tulle. A simple idea is just a base for endless variations.
'Two in one'
Recently, a lot of brands develop the idea of the costume – one or two piece suits. The can come in an amazing amount of colours and patterns that make them a unique garment even for a night out. To me, they have a seventies feeling about them – matching top and bottom, bold print, and vibrant colours catch the eye of passers-by. Why not play with the look and go back in time?
'Long and airy'
Wouldn’t it feel like you’re one of James Bond girls in one of those? Not only elegant but sexy and comfortable. Airy material looks slight and feels light at the same time. Perfect for long summer nights.
'Glitter and gold'
To stand out this little bit more, and to literally shine on a dance floor (or in intervals in theatre – why not?) we can always try putting something glittering. Maybe you always though it’s not your style and never even dared to try on such a dress in a dressing room? It actually might be quite freeing to wear something vivid and daring, and help you build up the confidence.
'Whatever you will decide to wear you should go with something you feel good in. After all, the main point of going out is to have a great time and be comfortable. There are many ways to look charming and tasteful, and one of them is just adding some accessory, even a face mask can be stylish.'
]]>'After wearing out a pair of £15 jeans in a matter of months, I made a promise to myself. From now on, I will only buy second-hand clothes, thrift vintage or clothes where I can be assured that they were made to last (and obviously are comfy!). At lot of my clothes at that point were from budget high street stores, low quality, but easy to buy; and unfortunately, also easy to throw out when torn or faded, which happened all too quickly. I haven’t always been able to stick to that promise, but I have at least stuck to my habit with jeans.
'Denim is one of the most popular staples of anyone’s wardrobe. Although denim jeans began as work clothes for cowboys and manual labourers in the United States, now two billion pairs of jeans are produced globally every year.'
'However, all this cotton requires a significant volume of water, with around 4,000 to 8,000 litres required to grow the cotton for just a single pair of jeans. Even more water is needed to manufacture denim, and the chemicals used in this process can end up back in the water cycle, in the rivers which grow peoples’ food and the water they drink and bathe in.
'The majority of these two billion pairs of jeans are manufactured in Asia, in textile factories and mills in India and China. The pollution from the dyeing and finishing process ends up in rivers and waterways all over the continent.
' (If you’re looking for more information on the devastating impact that the textile industry’s pollution has on local people, the documentary ‘River Blue’ is a good place to start. [ https://youtu.be/pfPMeMGbrj4 ].)
'Some companies have been creating more ecologically friendly technologies to avoid excessive water use. For example, laser distressing can replace the use of pumice and chemicals for stone-wash and acid-wash denim, the remnants of which must be rinsed away with large quantities of water.
'However, the finishing processes for denim only amounts to a small fraction of the water used to create a pair of jeans. Not only that, these technologies make denim more expensive to produce, meaning cheaper and more polluting methods are still more popular.'
'I think the simplest way to lower the environmental impact of your jeans is to buy them second-hand. Vintage styles and ‘pre-worn’ and ‘distressed’ jeans are becoming increasingly fashionable again; and yet many of these kinds of clothes are also being thrown away into landfill every year just because they are old.
'A lot of times I find when trawling through charity shops I find that the jeans available are well known brands with a reputation for lasting a long time.'
Naturally as the kind of cheap jeans which get worn through in a matter of a year get thrown out with rips and tears in them, in my experience when picking up a pair of jeans second hand you can be assured of their quality. Even quality designer brands can occasionally be found.
'So be sure to check out your local charity shop next time you need a new (or newish!) pair of jeans!'
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'Welcome to your new addiction- charity shops! Stop looking at your local charity shops the same way you look at other high street shops, and start seeing it as goldmine of new ideas and choices.
'As with mining, I’ve realised that a place must be visited more than once until a true gem is found. Don’t give up after your first visit if you still haven’t found the perfect item! I like to keep searching and see shopping as a fun sport, whilst reaping the rewards. But my number one tip is to really open your mind. To find a gem, don’t go into a shop searching for a specific item and instead, open your mind to new possibilities.
'I’ve managed to find a Nike hoodie, Christian Dior makeup bag and several other small pieces, just from browsing around with no specific item in mind. I know others that have also struck gold with Ralph Lauren and Paul Smith shirts! From all this, it’s safe to say that the best clothes can be found when we aren’t looking for it!
'Whether that’s a designer piece, or a satin top or a cashmere jumper, the opportunities are endless.'
'Found the perfect top, but it’s too big? Don’t worry and keep in mind that clothes can always be adjusted and tailored to fit your specific sizes. A needle and thread might just be your new best friend. After finding an incredible pair of trousers that fit my waist, I unfortunately realised that it was too long for me. But in less than an hour, I managed to tailor it to fit me perfectly – I had struck gold. See all this purchasing and tailoring as a journey for yourself; a whole new experience where you venture outside your comfort zone and end up with a one-of-a-kind item.
'I’d also suggest thinking outside the box when it comes to searching for clothes and think of various new outfits that could be created from a few garments. Fabrics can be mix and matched to create exciting combinations you may have never thought about! What new style awaits you?
'Whilst having fun shopping, just remember that you are also helping to save the planet by contributing to a circular economy, whilst also donating to a charitable cause. A circular economy keeps products and materials in use, thereby reducing waste and pollution. In the UK, approximately £128 billion pounds worth of clothes is sent to landfills annually. This shocking amount can only be reduced by spreading awareness of clothes wastage and convincing more to purchase second- hand goods.
'I have plenty of clothes in my wardrobe that I plan on donating to charity shops or selling on second-hand platforms such as Depop, so I can also contribute to a circular economy! Have a rummage through your wardrobe and see what you can sell or donate, what you find may surprise you!
'It’s never too late to get sucked into the world of charity shops, so why not pop into your local charity shop soon- who knows what you’ll find?'
]]>
What are the advantages of buying second hand clothes?
' Learning to re-love all the brilliant stuff that’s already out there is a big part of the message here. We hope we can share our passion for second hand by showing people just what they’re missing out on if they don’t! The quality and abundance of it all is mind blowing - there’s literally something out there for everyone and it’s too good an opportunity not to let it go to waste. You’ll find a brilliant cross section of dress styles by shopping second hand; one off and quirky, vintage and retro, designer and high street there’ll be something to accommodate all tastes both in physical stores and online. Offering great value’s still at the core of it all, and there are some incredible bargains to be had, but now that we’re all more conscious about consuming less and recycling more, the merits of second hand clothes shopping have, quite rightly, gained even more traction.
'If we’re really serious about sustainability and consuming less of the world’s resources then we’re all going to have to slow down our appetite for fast fashion and shop second hand more.'
' Providing valuable funding for Dorothy House Hospice is obviously at the heart of our mission, and we’re so lucky, as a local charity, to be able to meet so many people whose lives have been touched in some way by the work of the hospice team. Of the donors,shoppers and volunteers that support our stores, it’s striking how many will take the time to stop and share their positive experiences first hand - it brings the whole process rather poignantly full circle and we love to hear it.
Do you think Covid has altered people’s habits/perceptions of second hand?
' Plenty of time for ‘cupboard clear-outs’ during lockdown have meant a flood of donations and the potential for even more brilliant finds hitting the shops, so in that respect Covid has had at least one positive impact. In terms of how we reach our customer, we’ve seen the launch of our new online shop to accommodate the huge rise in online shopping, and with that, the obvious bonus of enlarging our customer base. It’s been a great opportunity to extend our reach and we now sell to customers across the country.
'As for people’s fashion fixes during the past year; well, together with the inevitable pursuit of loungewear there was a notable shift for dressing up to stay in.'
People donning their best disco finery to party in their kitchens or pulling on a ball gown to put the bins out. The clothes we normally put away ‘for best’ were suddenly making more of an appearance - it seems as if a little escapism was a welcome tonic during challenging times. Making the most of what we already have is part of the message we wanted to achieve in our looks too. Re-loving clothes that might be seen as seasonal or too formal and otherwise languish at the back of the cupboard. Life’s too short so why not restyle it and rewear it.
How do you overcome the stigma of pre-worn?
'There’s little stigma attached to second hand shopping these days. The fact that there’s no such thing as a typical charity shop (or second hand) shopper anymore is testament to its wide appeal, and the demographic shopping for second hand is as varied as the stock itself. On the contrary, there’s already a notable growth in some extremely slick and edgy physical second hand stores starting to appear - we’re probably just at the start of what will be a real second hand shopping revolution, that’ll hopefully put to bed the notion that it is in some way grubby or down at heel.
' A huge amount of time and effort goes into the sorting process, and unsaleable items don’t make it onto the shop floor. The quality of the donations is amazing and you quickly get a feel for that when you visit regularly. As for being dated, well one person’s ‘dated’ is another one’s bang on trend. When fashion trends collide and overlap as fast as they do now it actually serves charity shops particularly well - because we stock it all!
'Take the unexpected renaissance of the ‘Hyacinth Bouquet’ floral dirndl skirt recently - we could sell as many to DM clad edgy eighteen year olds as we could to eighty year olds - where else could that happen! The whole cyclical nature of fashion is just perfect for the second hand market.'
Where’s a good place to look for second hand clothes?
' There are some great clusters of second hand shops in central Bath. Walcot Street’s a good place to start, with at least four charity shops to choose from, plus great indie and vintage specialists like The Yellow Shop and the Saturday markets. Also a few gems on Argyle St, including of course, ourselves. Dorothy House shop on Argyle St, not only great clothes by the way, but amazing bric-a-brac! Westgate Street for another rich seam of charity shops and then of course there’s the one and only Moorland Rd in Oldfield Park. A bustling community high street with some great independents and six charity shops to choose from. Our Moorland Rd shop ( now including our online shop ) has a fast moving and great range of stock - homeware and electricals as well as fashion.
'If online shopping’s more your thing, then there’s tonnes for you out there too; Depop, Ebay, Vinted to name just a few...'
How can we make it easy on ourselves and less jumble sale?
' Most second hand shops strive to provide a pleasant shopping experience, so items are always organised by size and category making them easy to locate (the jury is out on colour blocking as a way of merchandising, some love it some hate it ) Most second hand stores relish their individuality so don’t expect it to look too ‘high street’ it couldn’t and shouldn’t - the ‘rummage’ factor is still an important part of the experience. Stores want you to navigate your way around with ease - it’s in their interest that you do.
'Ideally you want to present a clean pleasant environment with lots of fresh exciting stock in an organised way but without losing that excitement at finding something brilliant before someone else does! The buzz of the jumble sale without any of the mess!'
What should we be looking for? Have something in mind or be open minded?
' Trust your gut when browsing. Only you can know what speaks to you; a beautiful fabric? An amazing colour or texture? But something on that rail will speak to you and that’s what makes shopping second hand possibly a more instinctual experience because your journey through the stock is less controlled. But always worth looking out for the good labels - if a garment was premium first time round, the chances are it’s been well made and therefore worn well. Interestingly premium garments seem to have the ability to ‘sing out’ even on a busy rail because good quality is often eye catching. An open mind is a good place to start when going on a second hand adventure - channel your inner Mr Benn!
What should we be checking for?
' Most charity/second hand shops allow you to return clothes (unfortunately changing room are closed due to COVID) so that you can check everything is ‘functioning.’ Broken, damaged and stained garments are sifted out at the sorting stage. Occasionally we will still sell amazing items that have had previous repairs or may have some historic damage stains etc (which would be itemised ) but this is only if they are exceptional and based on their merits and we know an enthusiast will love them just as they are. Interestingly, the growth of the visible mending/ repair/recycle movement of late, may mean that more people are willing to buy items that are less than perfect in future? Could be an interesting one to watch? Again, you will have to trust your instinct when buying.
'Touch, feel, examine as you would with any purchase because ‘yes’ they have been worn before and ‘no’ there are no hard and fast rules.'
You’re as likely to find that something beautifully made 50 years ago could easily out last something mass produced last year. You have to judge, but it’s wise to be realistic about the quality of cheaper clothing brands.
What about trying on items? Asking staff for advice?
'At the moment we can’t accommodate trying on due to covid restrictions so all purchases are, as always, refundable if they don’t fit or suit. Of course our staff are always on hand to answer questions or offer advice if they can. They often very knowledgeable when it come their stock and may even be able to help you if you’re looking for something in particular, or often they’re happy to contact you if that ‘special’ thing comes in
What habits should we avoid?
' If you’re going to be impulsive there’s surely no better place to do it than in a charity/second hand shop. It’s very affordability means you can maybe experiment with looks you would normally be more cautious about - to take a few style risks without a big financial commitment. If you’ve always had a hankering to fling about in a kilt or swan around in a kimono then why not? The chances are you will come across plenty second hand that won’t burst the bank. In fact the only note of caution, is not to be too cautious, because, of course, there’s only one of everything! The whole model comes with a frisson of delicious built-in jeopardy; if you ponder that brilliant thing for too long someone else might just swoop in and snap it up!
What about accessories?
'Again, you’ll find these in abundance and because people change their accessories so frequently we benefit from oodles of them in the form of donations. Their condition can be excellent, even mint, as they tend to get lighter use so you’ll find some incredible bargains out there. Nearly new footwear and bags as well as textile accessories in every style and hue are a great way to add a pop of colour to a sedate look or a budget way to reference a fashion trend without the head to toe commitment. We sourced some incredible accessories from our shops for the shoot - from silk scarves to beaded ethnic slippers to beautifully tooled leather bags. Showing as much diversity as we could was our aim. Rich pickings.
'Many of these modestly priced little gems also lend themselves brilliantly to inventiveness; silk scarves turned into hair bands, cushion covers, or we’ve even promoted them as reusable gift wrap.'
Or cheap as chips costume jewellery repurposed as hair clips, buttons or contents of Christmas crackers! Shoppers get quite creative with second hand accessories
Our latest shoot inspiration....
'Excited by colour and some of the amazing and rich fabrics we come across, we set out to create some looks that incorporated a little opulence and excitement into everyday wearability. We gave ourselves a pre raphaelite theme which lent itself perfectly to the richness and layering we wanted to achieve. Unapologetically feminine with just a little drama thrown in for good measure. But above all we wanted to show off the incredible diversity of garments we managed to source from just a few of our shops, and in just one day, a genuine snap-shot of the incredible stock that passes through our stores.
'We sourced from three of our Dorothy House stores; Keynsham, Weston and our new online store based at Moorland Rd and in each the process was the same; skimming the rails for opulent colours, lustrous fabrics and any interesting textures that caught our eyes. In just a few hours we had the makings of 15 looks including accessories,starting to take shape on a rail. Velvet, tulle, beads, embroidery, ruffles and fringing and of course lots of great fabrics - all starting to look promising! The only struggle was limiting ourselves to 15 - we could have easily kept going!
'By the end of the day we were able to sketch out the looks more thoroughly.
'We were keen to play with layering; placing shirts and blouses under some of the dresses to achieve a ‘folksy’ look and to suggest alternative ways of styling something that might otherwise be seasonal.'
A strappy summer dress over a blouse suddenly becomes something that’s wearable all year round. We set out to pair up interesting combinations - tweed with organza, suede with silk, denim with satin, knitwear with tulle ( okay that one didn’t happen ) and learning to make the most of the great stuff in our wardrobes all year round is definitely part of our message. Though we wanted to be playful with the styling we were conscious of when to let some pieces speak for themselves - it’s all about getting the balance right, sometimes less is more.
'Shoot day. We all meet for the first time at our venue - a beautiful Gergian town house in the Paragon, lent to us by the good folks at @alwayssundayhouse. Oodles of sumptuously distressed walls and dramatic drapery that was the perfect backdrop. Our three lovely models from @gingersnapmodels who had so kindly volunteered their time @kundai.nyakunu, @alanath0mas and @isobellachick - we are so grateful to them. The talented @louisejanemakeupartist who created stunning ‘natural’ beauty looks that just shone and the amazing @eglevasi, our photographer, captured the spirit of what we wanted to achieve beautifully - showing just how amazing second hand can look.
' Alas we can’t account for provenance of any of the pieces we chose - and this is more often the case. Just occasionally we receive donations that have a fascinating backstory but on the whole they arrive in anonymous bags and boxes and we have no idea where they may have been worn and what adventures they may have already had ( there’s definitely a book in there - a sartorial version of bagpuss perhaps? ) But who knows, perhaps the kind soul who donated some of these items may be reading this article and thinking that they’re sure they recognise that dress as one of theirs? If so, thank you for donating it to Dorothy House, we love rehoming your great stuff and hope you approve of how good it looks now! Scrubs up well doesn’t it!'
]]>Our latest blog post by Kasia Dudys looks at how you can maintain a wardrobe that stands the test of time and which works across the seasons...
'Once there was a time when people – especially young women – changed their wardrobe every season, because every season there was always something different à la mode. Colours, fabrics, patterns, a design. This is hardly history, merely several years ago. So what has changed? And has it changed permanently?
'People are becoming more conscientious about their everyday choices, because they have began to understand the seriousness of the climate change issue. More and more would like to contribute to saving the environment in areas they are able to. Apart from that, they become more aware of what is the real cost of fast fashion production – everyone has heard about exploitation of workers, and now this topic is louder than ever before.
'So now the question is – what can we do if we don’t have a big budget to spend on sustainable fashion, and at the same time are not inclined to visit big shopping malls neither?
'For some clothing is just a matter of being comfortable and warm but for others it means so much more. Clothes can build up your confidence, express your personality, and even be a statement. Can we still do that without changing our wardrobes and constantly buying new things? There’s a positive answer to that.
'Firstly, there is always one style that will never ever go out of fashion. Classic style. It may sound boring at first, but the devil is in the details. Classic doesn’t necessarily mean elegant or dated. Mainly it means quality. And confidence. Let’s for example look at the powerful and famous women like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Kate Middleton, or Sanna Marin – young, beautiful, confident, and stylish.
'What’s more, once you invest in good quality classic pieces they will last for years, and you’ll find them useful on many occasions to come. Recently I also discovered for myself that one can mix and match them however you like, which helps to bring a fresh look every time.
'Secondly, if you still doesn’t feel convinced, let’s have a look at how classic can easily be made more vivid and personalised. It only takes something as simple as a hairpin or a necklace or a headscarf. They can help you to stand out and embellish an outfit in a very low cost or no cost at all. Maybe you already have something in your drawers that you haven’t been using for ages and now you can find a new purpose for it.
'A perfect example here is a patterned neckerchief that you don't want to wear around your neck- how about trying to make a headband of it?
'A beautiful vintage bag found on in a charity shop to complete your look? There is lots of fun to be had in focusing on details, like layering necklaces to transform a crisp white shirt .
'The third idea I’d like to propose is transforming your old clothes or those found in a thrift shop. Crafting and upcycling in general has become very popular, especially now after lockdowns, and as we learn it doesn’t have to be complicated or require special skills. You just need to be brave and experimental. There is a lot of ideas and guides on how to transform old into something completely new and make it look voguish. Sometimes it takes only as much as sewing on couple of flowers or buttons, sometimes it’s replacing shoe laces with a ribbon, on the other occasion it’s cutting this and that or painting on a piece with fabric paints. The possibilities seem to be endless and allows to express your personality, and creativity. It might be a good way of spending time off as well as to learn new skills.
'Modern women are smart and well read, aware of nowadays issues, and that is very much reflected by their style. Because nowadays the most fashionable thing is being conscientious.'
]]>'While climate crisis is on the rise and sustainability and eco-friendliness are becoming more and more favoured, the fashion industry needs to find its’ own solution to the problem. When it comes to buying new things young people start to be more conscientious about their everyday choices. While the amount of sustainable and climate-aware brands is increasing, it can be expensive.
'Wrocław in Poland is a city filled with young people. They study, work, and spend their free time here. Everyone will find something interesting to do here, whether they’re into culture, architecture, science or new technology. The second biggest community in Wrocław are elderly people who settled here after the war. They all share the love of aesthetics, whether it is beautify preserved old houses, murals, garden squares, sculptures or modern architecture and – fashion.
'Most people here take care of their everyday looks. Do not expect haute couture out on the streets but you definitely notice old ladies wearing matching hats and scarves with pretty jewellery on their ears or around their necks.
'Young people on the other hand, like to follow current trends. For example, one can easily spot which colours are trendy this season by just looking around. That said, in Wrocław there is a lot of opportunities to dress yourself in low-cost, second-hand clothing that still allows you to look stylish. After all, students not always can afford clothing from big or eco-friendly brands.
'For the last few years, thrift shops have become very popular and now, they undergo their renaissance. Not only because clothing there is affordable and second-hand industry is perceived as sustainable to a certain extend but also, because one can find real treasures there.
'What’s more, recently young people became interested in vintage clothing. Girls search for looks from the 40s, 60s, and even 80s. Polka dots, false silk, wide skirts, short knitted cardigans, lace, to mention just a few are coming back from oblivion. And obviously the best way to get your hands on a nice vintage piece of garment is to visit your local second-hand shop.
'But don’t be misled! A lot of Wrocław thrift shops looks like regular clothing shop.
'Wrocław as any big city assembles lots of different people of various ages, nationalities, professions and approach to fashion. You can find elegance, vintage, homewear, casual and shabby looks everywhere around.
Some follow guidance from big brands, some choose ageless classic style, and some want to stand out with their colourful looks. Not to mention that from time to time you can also meet some youngsters in cosplay.'
]]>Over it.
The vaccination programme is a promise of a return to normality and even when we’re warned that this doesn’t mean the ‘old normal’ but the ‘new normal,’ it’s providing hope.
Hope that allows us to think about inspiration beyond our bubbles- aspirational things, crazy projects and theatrical events. Even thinking about the places we miss visiting, that are so close but feel so far, is making us smile.
That’s why we’ve started to talk about street style and how it’s feeding our imagination.
Lovers of style all over the world, being snapped in outfits that are an expression of their creativity on their human form. Different cities and countries bringing a unique flavour to clothing, individual personalities working in their own twist. We’re not interested in being told what’s fashionable, we want to make the clothes we have merge to make something that is totally our own!
It’s not a new phenomenon, strutting your stuff publicly, peacocking and parading, a little ‘paseo’ in your favourite things- but it’s a luxury we miss.
Is it vanity, or is a way to share our magpie-like natures? An age-old desire to flaunt colour and precious things- whether silk or satin, plastic or PU, how people make these materials into something unique, is fascinating.
So we’ll keep sharing our take on cheap and chic, street-style and hope to bring you examples worn by ‘real’ people soon. Please tag us @dorothyhouse.shop with your own outfits and looks if you are feeling inspired, antsy or just bored. We’ll share your unique looks and reward you with a 10% discount off dorothyhouse.shop!
]]>If you’re into the world of fashion, you might have heard of the term ‘street style’. Maybe you’ve read articles in Vogue about street styles across the globe, or seen TikTok videos that show China’s high fashion in action. It’s thrown into the spotlight during fashion weeks in the world’s style capitals, with people taking to the streets in their most striking statement ensembles.
(Image downloaded from Vogue.com)
You’ll notice that all these outfits are unique – and that’s down to the people wearing them. Just like music, literature or painting, fashion is an art form.
The artists are the people who put their outfits together, choosing to reflect who they are and what they want to say through their clothing.
(Image downloaded from vogue.com)
It’s easy to look at street style and think it’s unaffordable, unachievable or unsustainable. But the essence of street style isn’t people showing off their brand new designer labels – it’s about their creativity showing through in their fashion.
Thought goes into the colours, shapes and textures that have been put together, and this eye for detail is what makes the outfits so striking as a whole.
The truth is that it’s possible to make a statement without having to invest in the latest designer pieces. You can easily pick up pieces from Dorothy House’s online shop and achieve that glamorous street style.
(Style inspo vogue.com, clothes from dorothyhouse.shop)
Street style is about imagination and experimentation, so get creative and see what works for you. And if you’re finding your pieces at local charity shops, you’re not only saving money for yourself, but also helping to fundraise an important cause – not to mention being a sustainable shopper! You can find beautiful pieces to complete an outfit, or make something completely your own with clever upcycling.
(Style inspo vogue.com, clothes from dorothyhouse.shop)
Our new online shop has plenty of beautiful and unusual pieces for both men and women – and it’s all offered at incredible prices. Take a look!
(Style inspo vogue.com, clothes from dorothyhouse.shop)
]]>This week's blog post by Alice Langridge covers our theme for the rest of year, a 'Sustainable Christmas and has some great tips for making Christmas impactful but with less impact on the planet.
'Christmas is a great time of the year, but it can be a dangerous time for the planet. It’s a time where most overconsume, causing a huge increase in waste and the amount going to landfill. In the U.K. alone we produce 30% more waste at Christmas. We are hoping to change that this year, and according to The Westminster Report Brits want to have the most sustainable Christmas ever through acts such as buying secondhand gifts.
A Charitable Christmas
'Shopping secondhand with Dorothy House really is a win-win because not only are you directly supporting life-changing care with every purchase, you are also helping the environment by shopping sustainably - all whilst saving money!
'A fun idea for a charitable Christmas is to do a sustainable Secret Santa with your friends, family, work colleagues etc. A great way for it to be sustainable is to purchase a secondhand gift. A perfect place to start is by browsing our new online clothing store for some of our favourite looks, as well as our eBay shop for a range of items including designer clothes and limited edition books.
'If you are eager to begin your Christmas shopping and don’t want to leave it all until the last minute, Dorothy House offers the following gifts via our online shop:
'Sustainable Tips for Christmas
‘Tis the Season
'A few changes to your usual Christmas routine can have a huge impact on the environment, so try a few of our sustainable tips and see what works for you and your family!
'If you are already an avid charity shopper, you will be happy to hear that shopping secondhand is one of the best ways to have an eco-friendly Christmas. If you’ve followed any of our tips or purchased any of your Christmas presents from Dorothy House we’d love to see - tag us on our social media channels and add the hashtag #ChristmasWithDorothyHouse. We hope you and your loved ones have an amazing and sustainable Christmas this year! 🎄 '
]]>
Vintage volunteer, Alice Langridge's advice for all your crafty folk...
'The past couple of months have definitely seen a surge in creativity. We have all witnessed our peers and loved ones looking for new hobbies and ways to get creative. It’s been fascinating seeing the continuous stream of videos and social media posts of people upcycling their clothing - and it is definitely giving a lot of us wardrobe envy!
'Upcycling is a phenomenon that is paving the way for sustainable and slow fashion. Upcycling is the reusing of old materials (such as torn or stained items) and giving it a new lease of life by creating an entirely new and higher quality product.
'Upcycling is so important in today’s global climate and to counteract the environmental ills of fast fashion. As repairing, reusing, and recycling reduces the amount of clothes that ends up in landfill, and uses resources that are already available rather than making them from scratch.
'The possibilities are endless with upcycling - you’ll be surprised by the great creations you can make from old items of clothing in your wardrobe, as well as secondhand clothing!
'Now is definitely the best time to give your wardrobe a well needed revamp. Most of us have already given our wardrobe a good sort out during the first lockdown.
'So, if you are struggling to find inspiration, or don’t have the prints or fabric you are looking for you can browse for secondhand clothing online or pop into your local charity shop (when it is safe to do so). You’ll be amazed by all the great budget-friendly clothing you will find!
'One piece of advice before purchasing any secondhand clothing is to search Pinterest for ideas of how you can upcycle clothing and what items to look for to achieve your goal. You can also specifically search for upcycling ideas that don’t involve a sewing machine. Pinterest is great for making your own boards, so you can see all your desired looks in one place. Make sure you browse all sections whilst shopping - you’ll be surprised by the great pieces of clothing you can make from men’s shirts. They can make a range of fashionable upcycled looks such as an overall dress, blouses, a rouen dresses, a paper bag waist skirt - and much, much more!
'There can be the perception that secondhand clothing is full of ‘outdated’ clothing, well that’s where you have the creative license to refashion pieces into something you will love.
'You don’t have to make drastic alterations to give clothing a new look and make it work for you. Making minor tweaks such as altering the length of a dress/top, or cutting jeans to make a pair of shorts are easy ways to create an entirely new outfit.
'Whilst upcycling is a great trend - it is important that it is used as a way to reduce waste and make the most out of the material available. Don’t discard any leftover material - you can use this to create great accessories to supplement your sustainable creations. Try making reusable cotton face pads, hair scrunchies, or even a COVID-friendly face mask.
'Amazing ‘Upcyclers’ for Creative Inspiration
If you want to join in and start upcycling your clothing, but don’t know where to even start, below is a list of some great upcyclers:
Time to Upcycle!
'If you want to stand out from the crowd with a unique and revamped wardrobe, join the slow fashion movement and start upcycling your clothes. Charity shops are a great and inexpensive place to purchase clothing, so you can begin your upcycling journey.
]]>'If you have upcycled anything you have purchased from Dorothy House we’d love to see your creations - tag us on our social media channels and add the hashtag #UpcycledWithDorothyHouse. We can’t wait to see the one-of-a-kind pieces you have created!'
'It’s safe to say that the term fast fashion is dominating the high street and online fashion space. High street retailers are trying their hardest to counteract being labeled as fast fashion outlets, but ultimately the industry requires a substantial overhaul for this to happen.
'You’ll be pleased to know that one of the best ways to avoid fast fashion is….by charity shopping!
'Fast fashion is defined as - “inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends”.
'You only have to walk down the high street to see the abundance of fast fashion retailers. We are talking of brands such as Primark, H&M, Zara, and online retailers such as ASOS, Boohoo, and PrettyLittleThing to name a few. Fast fashion is all around us, and it’s difficult to not get sucked in. With these company’s powerful marketing tactics, they brainwash us into believing we need to buy these cheap, mass-produced items to be trendy and “in-style”. But at what cost?
'The fashion industry is the second largest contributor to global landfills. It also accounts for about 10% of global carbon emissions and uses more energy than both aviation and shipping combined. These shocking statistics alone highlight the irreparable damage to our environment.
'Even though a few major brands such as Zara and H&M are taking steps in the right direction in the fight against fast fashion… is this enough? For example, Zara announced that every collection will be made from 100% sustainable materials by 2025, and H&M has introduced the world's first in-store recycling system - Looop. Whilst these steps are great and show companies willingness to consider sustainability in their business models, there is a risk of ‘greenwashing’. That’s why there still needs to be an emphasis on a more sustainable and circular approach, that favours clothes that are already in circulation. It is also important that all aspects of the company are sustainable (not just sustainably resourced materials, we are also talking about issues such as fair wages and working conditions). This is where slow fashion comes in.
'Slow fashion is the sustainable, and slower alternative to fast fashion. It is a movement that focuses on improving sustainability by encouraging retailers and consumers alike to take a more ethical approach to fashion. It supports buying secondhand and vintage clothing, upcycling old clothes, supporting smaller producers, and buying better-quality clothing that will have a longer lifespan. The movement ensures fair treatment of people, animals, and the planet.
'A great way to get started in the slow fashion movement is to spend some time researching your favourite brands and their impact on the planet.
'Have they launched a vegan range? A range made from recycled plastic bottles? Do they have a B Corp Certification? Looking for certifications and badges helps to understand if the company adheres to certain ethical standards. For further information about certifications and information surrounding the slow fashion movement read SLO Active’s sustainable and slow fashion guide.
'It’s important to note that slow fashion is not about not buying, it is about thinking more sustainably and having a “Conscious Closet”. We all love to treat ourselves to new clothes, and slow fashion acknowledges this! Elizabeth L. Cline’s book The Conscious Closet: The Revolutionary Guide to Looking Good While Doing Good encapsulates the slow fashion movement and advises how you can reach your fashion goals ethically and sustainably. It has been dubbed as the “sustainable fashion bible”. Overall, it is crucial to be a conscious consumer and acknowledge that the money you spend has an impact on the lifespan and actions of businesses. Ultimately conscious consumers ensure they make decisions that have a positive social, economic, environmental, and political impact.
'Whilst sustainably sourced brands such as Asket, Ninety Percent, Thought, and SLO Active can be expensive, you know what isn’t expensive? Charity shopping!
Source: thesimplethings
' Join the Slow Fashion Movement with us!
It is clear that the fashion industry cannot carry on as ‘business as usual,’ and that’s why we are encouraging you to think sustainably and join us in combatting the harmful effects of fast fashion. This year has been an eye-opening year for so many reasons and has definitely seen an increase in documentaries and knowledge about sustainable practices. It cannot be denied that secondhand shopping is one of the best ways to lighten your impact as a consumer.
'So, shop consciously with us at dorothyhouse.shop by growing your wardrobe sustainably and saying NO to fast fashion☺
'Useful Sources:
If you are interested in learning more about the dangers of fast fashion some great documentaries are: