Hope you've had a good Summer and are gearing up for back to school this week or have already started the Autumn term like mine have! So back to blogging and first on the agenda was to sign up for Oxfams 'Second hand September' campaign and pledge to say no to new for 30 days.
Since starting 'mumsweardaily' I've actually purchased less clothing and accessories; choosing instead to really consider any purchases and use my tried and tested method of asking these three questions before each transaction.
1) Do I really need it? (or does it do the same job as something I already own)
2) Does it replace something that I have worn a lot and is now a casualty of wear and tear?
3) Can I visualise it used in 3 different outfits?
If I answer yes to the above and it's affordable then I tend to buy. I also believe that if you think about an item long after you've walked away from the till point it's often the case that it's a keeper; almost love at first sight, and you should buy things you love, that will make you feel great! So next time you're tempted wait a week or two and see if it's still on your mind.
The other tip to not buying is trying. Taking an item into the changing room sorts the sheep from the goats as it proves you've got the time and energy for it; also whilst it may look great on the hanger it may be a different story when you try it on! Its saves you money in the long run as most of the items that come into our preloved consignment store, Willow & Eve, with tags on have never been worn and stay in the wardrobe forgotten about until way past the returns date.
If you buy and don't wear something within the first week or don't have a specific occasion or outfit in mind then keep it out of the wardrobe, where you can see it, until you do wear it. Otherwise take it back asap. Set a reminder on your phone 3 days before the returns policy runs out so you stand a chance of getting a full refund.
Since starting 'mumsweardaily' I've actually purchased less clothing and accessories; choosing instead to really consider any purchases and use my tried and tested method of asking these three questions before each transaction.
1) Do I really need it? (or does it do the same job as something I already own)
2) Does it replace something that I have worn a lot and is now a casualty of wear and tear?
3) Can I visualise it used in 3 different outfits?
If I answer yes to the above and it's affordable then I tend to buy. I also believe that if you think about an item long after you've walked away from the till point it's often the case that it's a keeper; almost love at first sight, and you should buy things you love, that will make you feel great! So next time you're tempted wait a week or two and see if it's still on your mind.
The other tip to not buying is trying. Taking an item into the changing room sorts the sheep from the goats as it proves you've got the time and energy for it; also whilst it may look great on the hanger it may be a different story when you try it on! Its saves you money in the long run as most of the items that come into our preloved consignment store, Willow & Eve, with tags on have never been worn and stay in the wardrobe forgotten about until way past the returns date.
If you buy and don't wear something within the first week or don't have a specific occasion or outfit in mind then keep it out of the wardrobe, where you can see it, until you do wear it. Otherwise take it back asap. Set a reminder on your phone 3 days before the returns policy runs out so you stand a chance of getting a full refund.
If you do need a fashion fix or an AW update consider buying preloved or second hand. I didn't realise Oxfam has an online store, which makes it a lot easier to shop category and sizes and consignment stores ( or dress agencies ) gives you a percentage of the sale of your nearly new clothes, which is a win win scenario. Our consignment store, Willow & Eve, offers a boutique feel with quality brands at affordable prices. The feedback has been so positive and shows that consumers are rejecting the high streets fast fashion offer in favour of more sustainable options.
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So the gauntlet has been thrown and I'm going to resist buying new for this month. I hope you feel inspired to do the same. Visit Oxfam for more details on the impact the fashion industry is having on our planet and the carbon footprint of buying new. As I've said before 'don't feast on fast fashion, savour slow style instead!' Of course I still may be tempted by a preloved garment in our shop.....so don't buy new buy new to you!.
Thanks for stopping by.
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