We all know the feeling when we buy something new, it’s fun, refreshing and exciting. However, like many of you, we question where has this been made? When we are bored of this look where will it end up? Have I spent too much money on something I may only wear or use a couple of times? Who has made this and what life do they live?

Secondhand September is a fantastic starting point for those of us looking for the benefits of shopping second hand. Not only can you totally curate an individual style, but you are entering the cycle of sustainable and responsible shopping. You might even surprise yourself with the way your style develops when not shopping from uniform racks.

For many years it was believed that giving clothes and homewares to charity was the best thing to do for others and ourselves, but the real implications of this are so much further removed from what we had we once believed. Many clothes end up in landfill, and those that get shipped to developing countries are often sold to traders effecting the local economy.

So what do we do? Really consider your purchases, think about your current items and needs. Utilise social media, there are great finds on Facebook Market place and local selling groups. Ebay is full of items to enhance your wardrobe and home with the option to search for specific vintage items. Another great way to find key pieces and styling ideas is of course Instagram. Many second hand shops exist on there as well as pop up accounts from individuals having a clear out (Great for children’s clothes on a budget).

When shopping for the home, it’s great to mix old items with new, and often you can find gems right on your doorstep. If you keep your eyes peeled when out and about it’s amazing what people leave outside on the street that they no longer want. Use this as a chance to flex your creativity and attempt some upcycling for a truly unique piece, or simply clean it up and re-style.

Some useful tags to search are #secondhandseptember #slowfashion #sustainablefashion #sustainablestyle #buysecondhand #upcycle #vintagefurniture

Image courtesy of @consciousstyle