How To Invest In Spring Trends More Responsibly
Everything in life is about balance, and fashion is no different.
It’s hard not to get excited for spring, especially this year. The warmer weather, lighter evenings and, one of my favourite things, a chance to refresh your wardrobe. I love a chunky knit but I think we can all agree it starts to get a bit boring after a while and I’m more than ready to embrace some colour and new inspirations.
There are some clear trends for spring this year, some I love, some that aren’t quite for me. And as much as I’m excited for them and I can’t want to get creative I also want to make sure I’m doing it in a responsible way. It’s no secret that the fashion industry is a disaster for the environment, and while it isn’t all on us as consumers, there are things that we can do to strike the balance between having fun and being a responsible consumer. Of course, the most sustainable thing is to not shop at all, but for most of us that just isn’t very realistic. Instead, I’ve tried to approach this season in a more responsible way, being more selective and making sure all of my purchases are considered.
The Tips
Shop secondhand
Sometimes it’s harder to find current pieces, especially in a diverse range of sizes, but it’s still worth looking because you might find a great bargain. Alternatively, so many trends are just repeats from previous years that you may be able to hunt down a great vintage find. The best bit? No one else will have one quite like yours.
Pick sustainable brands
There are a number of brands who now work to make sure their practices are more sustainable. The term ‘sustainability’ in fashion is vague and not regulated, but some brands are making steps in the right direction so if you can afford the swap then there are some brilliant options out there.
Be selective with the trends
Instead of going after every single trend, be selective about the ones you want to try. Think about what will actually suit you and make you feel great and then go after these. We don’t need to buy into every trend, and often just a handful of new items are enough to leave us feeling refreshed.
Pick trends you’ll like for years
We all change our minds and that’s ok, but if there are some trends that you’re more likely to still like when the moment is over then go after these. It means your number of wears will be higher and cost-per-wear lower, better for the planet and your purse!
Think about the materials
It isn’t as simple as natural fibres being good and human-made being bad. It’s more nuanced than that and everyone will have different views on leather vs vegan leather, wool vs polyester. However you feel you can still bear it in mind. If you’re going for a wool cardigan check is RWS assured. If it’s a man-made fibre can you get something that’s partially recycled? Look out for BCI cotton or fabrics such as Tencel that are just a bit better on the planet.
The Trends
So what trends am I going after this spring? I’ve included my edit below, a mix of things I already own that I’ll be re-styling and some new pieces I’ve added to that are on trend but also fill a gap in my wardrobe.
Lilac
The colour of the season and with so many different tones and ways to where it, it’s a surprisingly versatile way to add in a little colour.
Shackets
The perfect piece for the awkward in-between weather. They look smarter, like shirts, but still keep you warm and can be layered up like a jacket. Wear with jumpers on colder days and pretty camisoles when the sun comes out.
Bras On Show
Not for everyone, but this is a trend that’s easy to jump on straight away and showcase some of the beautiful lingerie you own. Bralettes are your best friend here, or maybe show off pretty lace straps.
Sweater Vests
This isn’t going anywhere this spring, and with good reason. Sweater vests are one of the most versatile pieces within any wardrobe, perfect for layering or wearing alone whatever the spring weather might throw your way.
Cardigans
Practical, comfortable but also cool - my perfect trend. Button it up and go sans-t shirt to embrace the bra on show trend at the same time or do it all the way up and tuck into your jeans for a twist on a usual sweater.
Finding a way to embrace the things you love and enjoy fashion while still taking steps in the right direction can be difficult. No one is perfect, myself included, but by making smaller changes and thinking more carefully before we shop we can start to make some progress. Which trends are you embracing this spring?
OUTFIT DETAILS
Jacket - M&S
Top - Primark (5 years ago)
Jeans - Topshop via eBay
Boots - H&M (2 years ago)
Bag - ASOS (last year)