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The fashion industry, like a big vehicle, produces a considerable amount of CO2 emissions. Shopping second-hand can reduce the issue, Oxfam says.

Oxfam, global anti-poverty movement, is urging shoppers to buy clothes secondhand rather than brand new as its new research reveals emissions produced manufacturing jeans owned by UK adults is comparable to flying a plane around the globe 2,372 times or a petrol car travelling more than 21 billion miles.

Pollution and climate change is the hefty bill planet Earth pays for our wardrobes. Thanks to the example of sustainable fashion brands like NA-KD, we know that a global action plan is possible.

 Ph. hello i m nik, Unsplash

Multi-tasking and multi-targeting, this is the climate action plan set and run by NA-KD. The daunting mission has many green goals and it is still achievable.

Fashion And The Environment: The Facts

The changes experienced by the environment are tangible and, most of all, global. The public attention is all on the main actor in today's climate disruption: fashion – or better – fast fashion.

With the trends coming and going and the pressure to follow them, fast fashion has provided the mass with an endless variety of always fresh clothing at reasonable prices. The price tag might be low, but the consequences on the ecosystem proved not to be so light and for many different reasons.

From a consumer point of view, the fast-fashion temptation led to more purchases which indirectly lowers down the life span of our clothing and causes more textile waste. Numbers clarify the state of facts: in Europe¹, for example, people buy 26Kg of new clothing and discard an impressive 11Kg every year. Sales have been increasing by 40% since 1996 but, on the other hand, the EU fashion industry has not been able to keep up with fabric refuses as just 1% of the textiles was recycled for clothing due to technological issues.

If we are guilty of overconsumption, many brands lack sustainability in their production. Indeed, every step in fashion manufacture can be deemed responsible for greenhouse emissions, water pollution and land degradation. To break down the process, these phases are sourcing new raw materials, processing and producing new clothing, packing and shipping goods. As we will see shortly, NA-KD focuses on each one in its ecological journey toward a climate-neutral production by 2025.

Ph. Crsten Vollrath, Pexels

Present on the shelves for 24%, cotton is a very common natural fibre in this industry, yet it is the least sustainable material. Its production involves considerable consumption of water for irrigation and land: alone, 1Kg of cotton needs between 10,000 and 30,000 litres of water depending on the geographical region². 1 cotton t-shirt equals 2,500 litres of water!

Furthermore, the remaining water sources are polluted by pesticides and insecticides employed in cotton cultivation, dyes and chemicals from clothing and jeans processing, and microfibres. Although small, microparticles, in the long run, pollute water basins and oceans ending up putting marine fauna at severe risk. 0,5 million tonnes of plastic microfibres – that is 35% released in the environment – come from washing synthetic clothes. Again, one straightforward example taken from daily life will wake you up: 1 laundry of polyester clothing creates 700,000 microplastics³ going down the water pipes.

Microplastics found in Mirissa Harbour, Sri Lanka. Ph. Soren Funk, Unsplash

Even before we can put our hands on some brand-new clothing, more pollution comes along. Bringing fashion goods to distribution sites all over the globe translates to material waste and CO2 emissions through packing and shipping. In total, on the shoulder of the fashion industry, there is 10% of the global carbon emissions. The analysis run by McKinsey states that the amount reached 2.1 billion metric tonnes of greenhouse gases in 2018, foreseen to jump to 2.7 billion metric tonnes by 2030 with no drastic changes are taken.

The NA-KD Green Example

NA-KD Reborn, a collection made of more sustainable materials

Switching to a greener production may seem an epic deed. Indeed, it is not easy and requires a multi-tasking approach. NA-KD carbon-neutral journey is an example we wish many companies will study and copy for the future. But what is so special about it?

The difficulties lie in the disparate production phases and the many actors involved from start to end: suppliers, brands, delivery companies, retailers and, finally, consumers. NA-KD's plan tackles every source of pollution and liaises with all the entities working in the industry and/or involved.

The brand, born in 2016, is now distributed in 50 different countries, no wonder NA-KD feels the urge to act for the better. The label launched its first sustainable line in 2019 and, by 2025⁴, it aims to:
• halve CO2 emission per product,
• use 100% sustainable materials,
• climate-compensate shipping (by investing in wind power),
• stop any non-sustainable production by 2025,
• reuse or recycle 100% of packaging material by 2025,
• reach a completely transparent supply chain (for 80% of the production),
• fund sustainable initiatives

To reduce its footprint, NA-KD has switched to renewable energy and studied to reduce its carbon footprint caused by transport, while supporting its partner to change for renewable alternatives, have better use of water and more efficient treatment of chemicals. The brand's focus moves then to materials. The first goal was to use 100% more sustainable cotton for its denim by 2022 and have all products made in sustainable materials by 2025. To make this possible, NA-KD informed its purchasing department to make sensible choices; looked for organic and recycled cotton; implemented its certificates, and found new suppliers sharing the same eco-commitments. Having a transparent supply chain and clear communication with the public about sustainability and production are part of this green journey, as well as good practices for every business.

After tackling the problem connected with sourcing, manufacturing and distribution, NA-KD took care of the last but equally important piece in this puzzle: you, the consumer. Fashion consumers feel every day more conscious about the environment and the active role they play through their decisions. The brand's call to action emphasises the love for clothing: how to take care of them and so prolong their life and quality. The #SoMe campaign wants to accompany you through an educational journey, at the end of which you will adopt sustainable behaviours.

Loving your outfits, at some point, will bring you to pass this love onto someone else. NA-KD circular program supports the circularity models by rewarding you with a discount for every return piece of clothing. While you can give back, you can find new discoveries in the pre-loved marketplace section on the NA-KD website.

Although hard and ambitious, climate action is achievable in the fashion industry. The NA-KD plan shows this is a matter of organisation, time, strong commitments and collaboration. Only when all parties will weigh their actions and understand the right things to do, fashion will be finally greener and we hope soon.

Read more about NA-KD’s sustainability commitment and discover its sustainable and pre-love ranges online.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4.

The countdown to New Year's Eve is getting closer, and so is the time to plan your outfit for the last night of 2021. An explosive mix of sparkles and red-carpet glam is the most popular choice, but there is no rule. We encourage you to dress to impress as you are.

Ph. Inga Seliverstova, Pexels

Are you not sure about what to wear on New Year's Eve? No panic! The editorial team put together their best festive outfits in this NYE stylebook where the key denominator is your personality.

We did it many times: buying a shiny, daring, excessive New Year's Eve outfit and wearing it just once. Fashions Finest's team opened their wardrobe and picked their best NYE looks. Browse our unconventional lookbook for inspiration and tips to let your personality shine and save some money for the new year!

Bethan’s New Year's Eve Look

"My NYE look is styled with a 1960s' glamorous American housewife in mind," says Bethan Carrick, fashion historian and editorial intern at Fashions Finest - "think Mad Men's Betty Draper, my ultimate style icon. My plans for NYE are up in the air so I'm keeping my options open with this outfit but making sure I'm glowing. I have gone for a palette of luxurious golden hues which is tied together with a black Prada centrepiece - can you ask for much more? It is always important to me to match what I'm wearing on my feet with what I'm wearing from my neck and upwards: so these delicious jewel-encrusted Manolo Blahnik heels which no doubt are inspired by the court of Versaille are paired with an equally luxurious vintage gold pill necklace. To balance out the statement of gold I'm wearing a dainty Chanel cloche hat. These Batsheva orange dotted trousers signal to me where luxury meets comfort, which I am all about. Finally, wherever I will be it is going to be cold so I'll need a cosy jacket to take me through till 12 am and this Dior faux fur jacket is ideal. This outfit makes me feel like I'm going to gracefully glide my way through 2022. Cosy golden vibes only, please."

"I've chosen Vestiaire Collective to source my NYE look as I'm a big supporter of resale and believe it's the future of fashion. I spend a lot of time trawling through this site looking at beautiful garments that I hope to one day have money and space in my wardrobe to own."

Find Bethan's picks:
Top - Trousers - Coat - Necklace - Hat - Shoes 

Leila’s New Year's Eve Look

"This is an alternative and mainly vintage-inspired take on the New Year’s Eve outfit. It does not always have to be a dull sparkling glitter dress. Embrace the ‘90s and draw all eyes to you, while simultaneously supporting small independent designers and sustainability by shopping pre-loved."

Leila Katharina Kaess, international student and editorial intern at Fashions Finest, goes into more detail: "Snakedivine is an independent brand, based in Kassel, Germany and run by Rebecca. She studies free arts, makes tattoos and began to engage with CGI. Most of her items are unique single designs with an exclusively-limited batch of one to three pieces. This makes everything you buy extraordinarily special and individual. With one of these pieces, you are safe to avoid turning up in the exact same outfit some else is wearing. Rebecca is also keen on sourcing the fabrics from small sellers, remnant fabrics and second hand. The entirety of the range offered online is carefully crafted by hand. In an attempt to conquer fast fashion and overconsumption she invests a lot of time and creativity in every single piece. Thus, it is all the more devastating to see that a variety of her designs have been stolen, manufactured in horrible conditions and with synthetic materials, by the Chinese ultra-fast fashion brand SHEIN, to be sold for a few pounds. She is only one of several upcoming designers to be named. That is why we must support small and independent businesses!

The corset jacket by the infamous ‘90s brand Catwalk Collection is now considered deadstock, as those are not produced anymore, so you might want to get one as long as they are privately sold. A cute bralette underneath means that you could also open up the jacket or get rid of it entirely if you want to wear it as a top.

The well-beloved NODALETO platform Mary Janes pick up the jacket’s black velvet material, thereby creating a continued theme, as well as bringing top and bottom together coherently.

A cute little handbag to fit all the little things one needs when heading out are perfectly stored in this lovely vintage Vivienne Westwood bag. Vestiaire is always a good place to buy designer handbags since they are vintage (good for the environment and your wallet) and undergo testing for proof of authenticity by professional staff, which ensures that no dupes are sold. Lots of chunky silver jewellery and the eyecatcher, a huge Vivienne Westwood pearl choker, bestow the look with an edgy retro vibe. Also, notice how the cross earrings pick up the green colour of the bag, while the nail polish and lipstick match the colour scheme used in the trousers. Attention to little details like this compliment an outfit. This compilation can be used as inspiration, maybe you have some items in a similar, or would like to try your hand at an upcycling project."

Find Leila's picks:
Shoes - Bralette - Corset jacket -Trousers - Bag - Necklace - Earrings - Rings - Hairclip - Lipstick - Nail polish

Olivia’s New Year's Eve Look

"For me Christmas and NYE is the best excuse to wear a full outfit of glitter and this dress is the perfect example."  Olivia Brecque, editorial intern and Fashion Design Management student at the LCF, considers the holidays as the perfect time to do something good for someone in needs: "To get you in the Christmas spirit I decided to pick my outfits from Cancer Research in Islington as I believe there are endless choices of outfits in Charity shops, not only is it good for the environment but you are helping to raise money for a cause. This outfit in total cost 69£. Any pair of black boots that you own should do the trick as all the focus is on this glitter dress. I would like to thank the staff at Cancer research Islington for being so helpful and kind."

Olivia's top pick:
Earrings 
To make something meaningful this Christmas and NYE, visit Cancer Research UK.

Deborah New Year's Eve Look

"I have chosen a look from my wardrobe because I like the idea of thinking sustainably and reusing clothing rather than buying new clothes that I don’t really need." Deborah St. Louis, founder of Fashions Finest, is a champion in sensible fashion choices.

"Most of the items I have worn many times and in different ways. The ASOS top is a new purchase and I love the combination of burnt orange with the black floral design. The warehouse tan skirt is one of my favourite items which I have had for over 10 years so no longer available online but here is a similar look from Warehouse which I’m sure anyone could find in a charity shop for less than half the price.

I have finished my look with a selection of jewellery that I have had for many years and that will complement any look. Similar jewellery can be purchased at an affordable price from Accessorize. 

My go-to leather handbag has been with me since the '90s and it cost me around £20.00 back then. Here is an alternative from Ted Baker. My go-to heeled boots, which finish this look so nicely, find a similar alternative online at ASOS. 

Now I’m all set to step out and enjoy my NYE party with friends without even having to spend any money on an outfit."

Find Deborah's picks:
Top - Skirt - Handbag - Boots - Accessories 

Valentina’s New Year's Eve Look

"How things change... In the past, I was more bothered by the idea of celebrating the year leaving us rather than looking for party outfits and having fun. The fussy me was not ready to bid farewell to the year, especially if it was a generous one for me!

My NYE outfit idea has the typical broken student, my old me, in mind. Here is a versatile look that allows you to reuse the dress and any item in the new year, again and again. The OOTD plays around colours and feels making the '70s the decade of freedom, youth and carefreeness. The essential piece is this Reformation 'Briea' halterneck mini dress. Pattern, colour palette and neckline take inspiration from the party decade for excellence. Move around in this dress; as the silk flows, the cubed pattern acquires fluidity. Geometries break.
Reformation follows the Net Sustain 8 eco-conscious production keys. A candid ZARA faux fur jacket accompanies the dress to keep toasty and conceal the sensual open back. It is 100% artificial fur and crafted in line with the brand environmentally-friendly standards.

2021 footwear saw barely-there sandals and chunky heels alike. These vegan MONKI ankle boots give a strong sense of stability with their structured heel so your feet will thank you too!"

Valentina Chirico, chief editor at Fashions Finest, moves on matching jewellery. "The handpicked accessories recall the dress warm colour scheme: gold. NuebeStudio polymer clay drop earrings in the shade Sahara are a dainty touch of exclusivity and lush: 100% handmade with 14k gold leaf. Behind NuebeStudio is Noelia, a former Spanish model turned SEO marketer, then jewellery maker.

Gold is rather expensive, so why not add some brass bracelets instead? These stackable brass bangles are handmade and fair trade by People Tree, plus they shine like gold! '70s' earthy and saturated colours find a nicely surprising balance in this Louis Vuitton embossed leather pochette in an acidic lime hue. You can go second-hand for that piece of luxury you deserve."

"My country wants red as the go-to and super lucky colour for the festivities, including NYE. But this year, I want some gold and sunshine in my makeup.

Swirl Benefit Galifornia blush on the apples of your cheeks and forehead for an instant healthy glow. Galifornia is more of a warm peachy shade with a sweet and exotic fruity scent. For more gold and lush I would ask imPRESS, it replies with its 'Luxurious' press-on nails dipped in champagne gold and pearls. If time is running low, I trust the brands' innovative cushioned glue pads for extra hold and its superb salon-worth designs.

I almost convinced myself to celebrate this year!"

Find Valentina's picks
Dress - Jacket - Boots - Earrings - Bracelets - Handbag - Blush - Nails 

Katie’s New Year's Eve Look

"2022 is right around the corner and people across the world are readying themselves for fresh starts, inspirational Instagram stories and resolutions that they will definitely stick to this year. The best way to channel this positivity and abundance into your New Year" - says Katie Bowman, social media intern at Fashions Finest - "is to dress for success, or so the old saying goes."

"This year I will be ringing in the New Year with my best friend and her daughter at their home, so my take on the glamour and glitz of New Year’s Eve may differ from previous years. By this I mean pyjamas.

This pale pink satin trouser pyjama set from John Lewis is the perfect co-ord to sip strawberry daiquiris on the sofa. To keep in with the pink colour scheme, these pink fluffy slide slippers from Ugg matched with this cosy dressing gown from Boux Avenue will make you the envy of everyone who decided to party out in the cold.

So whether you’re out in the club, staying in with friends or asleep before the clock strikes midnight, have a wonderful and safe New Year and enjoy the night in style."

Find Katie's picks:
Pijama set - Slippers - Dressing gown 

Sophie’s New Year's Eve Look

"I have mainly chosen this outfit because you could wear this outfit for any occasion. You do not have to underdress or be overdressed. This is more a sort of casual wear."

Sophie Schot, creative media student and media intern at Fashions Finest, embodies a young and practical take on the festivities.

Find Sophie's picks:
Skirt - Sweatshirt - Boots - Earrings 

What a way to wave goodbye to 2021! There are many ways to dress up for New Year's Eve, all varied and still valid, whether you plan to spend the last night of the year partying all night out or staying in all wrapped up nice and cosy.

Mixing and matching our favourite clothing and wishlist picks was a fun game and a good style exercise. Fun aside and most importantly, our NYE stylebook wants to be more than a simple shopping guide. Indeed, it is not.

We like to think we are like no other e-zine around. We do not want you to feel compelled to buy so that you can feel gratified and conformed. Fashion should make you both look good and feel happy. You can do it in many ways; for example, you can join the secondhand brigade and give new life to pre-loved clothing online or in-store. You can buy to support a cause dear to you, wear independent and handmade labels, rent a luxury outfit or even design and sew your own holiday outfit! Being fashion smart is always among the latest trends, and there is no shame at all in wearing something casual on New Year's Eve or repurposing glam pieces to spice up your daily outfits.

Use this NYE outfit stylebook to steal some great tips. Save on money (and headaches), not on fashion!

A brand-new partnership introduces circular and more transparent solutions to implement sustainability in fashion retail. EVRYTHNG and Re-Fashion collaborate with New Look to make a change happen.

Second Hand September made its appearance on the catwalk of the London Fashion Week with fashion's rising star Harris Reed showcasing his unique collection made with Oxfam clothing. 

The '70s are back! An era full of glam, disco, Bowie, Jagger, bell bottoms, bold prints, crochet, dagger collar blouses and so much more. '70s style pieces are full-fledged on again. So, stock up your autumn wardrobe with these five essentials that should not be missed in anyone’s closet this autumn season.

Ph. Julian Myles, Unsplash

'70s kaleidoscopic style is the hottest fashion trend on Instagram, a good source of inspiration to make vintage looks truly yours. Perfect vibes for the upcoming autumn season, these are our 5 essentials for your wardrobe.

Retro aesthetics of the ‘70s are taking over our social media pages, and surely we all know what this era’s fashion stands for, right? You may have a lot of associations but read on to find out how you can also adapt those to contemporary trends.

Penny Lane Coats

A black & white example embellished with silver star and moon stitching, seen on influencer @hannahlouisef.

Showcased on everyone’s Instagram feed at the moment, contemporary brands like House of Sunny and Saks Pott brought about the resurgence of an absolute classic, the Penny Lane coat. Not only do they look fabulous, but also keep you warm and cosy throughout those stormy autumn days about to be faced. Simultaneously, these statement piece coats are spreading huge ‘Almost Famous’ vibes, whose character of Penny Lane is where its name originally stems from.

Formerly better known as Afghan coats, the style was brought into mainstream fashion mainly by celebrities, especially musicians like The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix throughout the late '60s and early '70s, which created all the associations it has with Rock n’ Roll nowadays. Available in plain suede or embellished with stitching and embroidery, they add an effortlessly chic twist to even the most basic outfit, a real no-brainer. Penny Lane coats are here to stay!

Funky Prints

London-based influencer @mounakae effortlessly sports a '70s-inspired swirl patterned set. The halter neck top adds to an overall retro atmosphere.

Battle the upcoming gloomy autumn days with ever more vibrant colours and funky prints. They appear in numerous forms and can be incorporated through basically every form of clothing. No matter if it is a top, blouse, trousers, skirt, jacket, or if you do not want to go all the way simply add a colourful headband or scarf. Chevron and flame stitch, argyle, paisley, swirls, zebra, floral and abstract geometric patterns are just a few infamous '70s patterns to be named. All were influenced by folk and psychedelic rock of the era. Matching sets are an easy way to pull off a nice fit without much effort. Bright colours and bold patterns can complement each other or clash in an offbeat way. This season there is no such thing as too radiant or vibrant. Multi-coloured clothes all the way, it is about mixing and matching, so be bold.

Flared Trousers

@hannahlouisef wears a classic denim flare with a middle line seam.

First popularised by Cher and Sonny in the mid-'60s, flared trousers became a staple piece of the era, and are interconnected with the counterculture hippie movement.

They are extremely versatile and can be styled in either '70s Americana style, feminine chic, androgynous with a pantsuit, or in a glam rock/disco manner for those nights out and about. Extra points if they are corduroy or in flower print, for the ultimate retro style. A more classic approach would be a pair of simple blue denim in true Farrah Fawcett manner, worn with a colourful top and white trainers. The choice of fabric is key here, they are available in either denim, cotton, corduroy, or polyester and vary in terms of how wide they flare at the bottom and whether they have an additional split hem. One thing is for certain, every kind of flared trousers will give legs for days since the shape is known to elongate the silhouette.

Platform Boots

@letsgetflashy goes all in with a Bowie-esque approach on colour coordinating platform boots, perfectly fitting her ginger mullet. (Ph. Alexandre Alaux)

The '70s surely were an innovative decade for fashion, as the clothing represented youths newly found carefree mentality and desire to deviate from their parents' generation’s norms regarding outward appearances and attire. The way they dressed was an act of rebellion in itself. Platform boots were mainly popularised by glam rock performers like Elton John, the New York Dolls, and especially David Bowie during his alter ego Ziggy Stardust phase. This made the trend gender-neutral, since Bowie incorporated various queering elements in his stage performances and photoshoots, so a lot of men adopted this element and could be spotted wearing heels.

Due to being considered the era’s disco shoe, the connection to present events seems fitting. Now that clubs have reopened after long months of social distancing, expressing a newfound sense of liberty is once again expressed through head-turning clothes. Online shops frequently advertise new 'going out wear' with phrases and puns referencing a need for customers to prepare for their comeback to the club floors with fitting party outfits, predominantly targeting teens and 20-somethings. Just like the trend was originally about catching attention, the intention remains the same. On a side note, the shoes are particularly petite friendly and can add a good few inches of height, while also keeping your feet dry when stomping through those leaf-covered parks and forests once foliage hits the ground.

Bulky Square-shaped Tinted Sunglasses

@annacascarina stuns in a simple, yet eye-catching black-framed model with yellow/orange-tinted glasses, which harmonizes very well with her floral printed Resume blouse.

A drastic opposition to the previous tiny sunglasses trend, originally stemming from the '90s. Now the motto certainly is 'the bigger the better!'.

Don’t shy away from colourful tinted glasses to give your fit this extra pop of colour. Particularly popular now are blue, yellow, amber, and red-tinted glasses with a tortoiseshell look frame. A perfect companion when having to hide nasty dark under-eye circles or puffy eyes in the morning.

Where To Get The Look?

It is apparent that these trends are interconnected in cultural significance, socio-political influence, and historical context. A feeling of exuberance seems to be around, which is expressed and underlined through fashion.

Though all items are in some form currently available at the established high street fashion houses, we recommend you take a look at your local thrift store or browse online through secondhand apps like Vinted, Depop, and Etsy to find a truly unique and long-lasting piece of clothing with an attached history. Not only is the quality of fabric and construction usually higher, but buying used clothes contributes to more conscious and sustainable consumption, therefore helping to protect our planet and spreading awareness. If these options do not fit size-wise, upcycling in DIY, or bringing it to a local tailor can easily fix any issue and simultaneously make it more distinctive and individual. Fashion cycles have always existed and will continue to do so, however, now with constant online access to fast-fashion retailers they are speeding up more and more. Nevertheless, the aforementioned trends are certainly not fleeting or just adaptable for this season, because true vintage never goes out of style.

Candice Brathwaite, face of Oxford Street and its #BEYONDNOW campaign, arrives in stores with her sustainable capsule collection featuring 30 of the most loved brands from Oxford Street.

Candice Brathwaite’s #BEYONDNOW Edit is now available in stores, an A/W 2021 capsule collection with selected pieces from 30 Oxford Street high street brands. The collaboration inspires a positive approach to shopping and fashion.

Candice Brathwaite’s edit is a 54-piece capsule collection using products from the responsible and conscious collections of 30 Oxford Street brands. The collaborative collection is curated into nine 9 Autumn/Winter looks all available in-store on Oxford Street. Oxford Street BEYOND NOW is the destination’s first sustainable awareness initiative showcasing the positive changes that some of the UK’s most beloved high street brands are making to create a brighter future for our high street and how we shop.

Look 1

Urban Outfitters, BDG Recycled Denim Jacket, 200 Oxford Street, £56
Nike Air Force 1 Crater Flyknit Trainers, 236 Oxford Street, £69.95
Ganni Dress part of Selfridges Planet Earth Collection, 400 Oxford Street, £205
Pandora Brilliance Collection Lab Grown Teardrop Diamond Bracelet, 257/259 Oxford Street, £250

Look 2

John Lewis & Partners Sustainable and Traceable Cashmere Jumper, 300 Oxford Street, £99
Zara Join Life Wrap Skirt, 333 Oxford Street, £29.99
Adidas Vegan Stan Smiths from Schuh, 200 Oxford Street, £75
H.Samuel Diamond Story 18ct White Gold Diamond Ring, 250 Oxford Street, £1,699
Pandora Brilliance Collection Lab Grown Diamond Earrings, 257/259 Oxford Street, £690

Look 3

H&M Conscious Knit Dress Made With Certified Recycled Materials, 174-175 Oxford Street, £34.99
Ganni Recycled Chelsea Boots Part Of Selfridges Planet Earth, 400 Oxford Street, £195
Acne Studios Vally Checked Wool Scarf Part Of Selfridges Planet Earth, £220
Swatch Big Bold BIOCERAMIC Watch, 313 Oxford Street, £108
John Lewis & Partners Matt & Nat Recycled Vegan Cross Body, 300 Oxford Street, £65
H&M Conscious Earrings, 174-175 Oxford Street, £5.99

Look 4

River Island Hoodie Made From Organic & Recycled Materials, 473 Oxford Street, £38
River Island New Leaf Mid Rise Jean, £42
Teva Sandals From Schuh With REPREVE® Polyester Yarn By Unified And Recycled Plastic Webbing, 200 Oxford Street, £60
Parley For The Oceans Clean Waves Sunglasses From Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, £200
H&M Conscious Rings, 174-175 Oxford Street £6.99
H&M Conscious Hair Clips, 174-175 Oxford Street, £3.99
Lush Zig Zag Knot Wrap, 175-179 Oxford Street, £4

Look 5

Sandro Dress Part Of Selfridges Project Earth Collection, 400 Oxford St, £359
John Lewis Trench Coat Supporting BCI Cotton Farmers, 300 Oxford St, £99
Tezenis Paris Recycled Microfibre Balconette Bra, 266-270 Oxford St, £14.99
VEJA Womens V-10 Logo Embroidered Leather Trainers, Part Of Selfridges Project Earth Collection, 400 Oxford St, £125
Monica Vinader Earrings, Part Of Selfridges Project Earth Collection, 400 Oxford St, £140
H&M Ring, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £2.99
H&M Patterned Scarf, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £6.99

Look 6

Mango Printed Cotton Top And Skirt Part Of The Committed Collection. 225-235 Oxford St, Top £19.99 And Skirt £29.99
Urban Outfitters Vintage Leather Blazer, Part Of Urban Renewal Collection, 200 Oxford St, £99
Adidas Gazelle Shoes, Part Of The Adidas Sustainable Collection Available From Schuh, 200 Oxford St, £70
H&M Bag, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £17.99
H&M Necklace, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £3.99
Tezenis Short Ribbed Recycled Cotton Socks, 266 Oxford St, £6.99

Look 7

Whistles Speckled Animal Skirt, Part Of Selfridges Project Earth Collection, 400 Oxford St, £59
Selfridges ROOP Satin Bag, Part Of Project Earth Collection, 400 Oxford St, £75
Selfridges Frame Cashmere Jumper, Part Of Project Earth Collection, 400 Oxford St, £350
H&M Earrings, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £12.99
H&M Grey Headband, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £9.99
Converse Khaki Run Star Hike Recycled Hi Trainers, Available From Schuh, 200 Oxford St, £90

Look 8

United Colors Of Benetton Pattern Dress, Made With 100% Sustainable Materials, 89 Oxford St, £59.95
New Balance 998 Remade in Pink, 287-291 Oxford St, £200
Uniqlo Recycled Jacket, 311 Oxford St, £79.90
Swatch Big Bold BIOCERAMIC, 313 Oxford St, £108
H&M Earring Crawler, Part Of The Conscious Collection, 174-176 Oxford St, £3.99
Timberland Allington Boots With Rebotl ™ Fabric Lining & Recycled PET Laces. From Schuh 200 Oxford St, £120

Look 9

H&M Conscious Ribbed Knit Dress, 174-176 Oxford St, £39.99
H&M Conscious Patterned Scarf, 174-175 Oxford Street £6.99
H&M Conscious Hat, 174-176 Oxford St, £19.99
All Saints Coat, Part Of The Selfridges Project Earth, 400 Oxford St, £379
H&M Conscious Necklace, 174-175 Oxford Street £12.99
Acne Studios Cross Body Bag, Part Of Selfridges Project Earth, 400 Oxford St, £850

You can mix and match the selected pieces or steal a complete look from Candice Brathwaite's BEYOND NOW Edit capsule collection. It makes a small but relevant change in your style and fashion habits.

Find further information about the campaign online or discover more on Oxford Street Instagram page.

In 2021, as sustainability becomes a buzzword in the industry, we are increasingly opting for ‘pre-owned’ / ‘pre-loved’ garments found in charity shops, online auction sites, curated vintage shops, and luxury reseller platforms. But secondhand shopping is not the end of this movement towards a sustainable fashion future. This past year the creativity of looks has become an important marker of style, inspired often by snackable videos of DIY fashion projects proliferating Tiktok.

Photo by Nafinia Putra, Unsplash.

Sustainable fashion isn’t just about spending hours, physically and virtually, rummaging around secondhand shops to find the most unique item. By giving your garments a personalised touch with these 8 tips and tricks on crafting a sustainable style, we can wear our clothes with pride, no matter if it is ‘in fashion’ or not.

By reworking your secondhand steals or mending the back-of-the-wardrobe relics through these tips and tricks, not only will your wardrobe be reinvigorated by authentic staples at a low-to-no cost but it also builds your personalised style.  

Embroidering The Imagination

Nothing says sustainable style more than embellishing your clothes with DIY crafts. Hand embroidery has been practised all over the world for centuries, meaning there are multitudes of techniques and styles to try your hand at. Using transfers, stencils or going free-hand on your jean pockets or hems, around a logo on a t-shirt, or on the cuff and collar of a shirt will add your unique signature to your style.

You can also add beads or sequins to your embroidery too.

##sunflower ##embroidery ♬ sunflower -

To Paint Or To Print

Whilst embroidery may be for those who want a more subtle impact, painting or printing on garments you will achieve a large-scale, unapologetically bold impact. Fabric paints (acrylics can work too) can be used to create individual figurative or abstract designs. 100% cotton fabric will respond the best to the paint but you can try your designs on synthetic fabrics, silk or leather - but before you get going, make sure you test the paint out on a segment of your chosen fabric.

For those who have less time or are less confident in their artiste skills, you can print images through an ink-jet printer onto transfer paper and iron the product onto your chosen garment. 

##paintedjeans ##paintingart Programs - Mac Miller

Button It

However, DIY crafts can be fiddly and not everyone has the time or patience. There is a simpler way to rework your old garments such as simply adding or changing buttons on a shirt, jumper, trousers or skirt. If you’re like me, you have probably accumulated hundreds of stray buttons in your lifetime that you can use. If you are not, why not consider swapping some buttons from other garments around?

##learnontiktok ##tiktokpartner ##sewing BONES - Mahrah

Patch It Up

In the past 18 months, there has been a resurgence in the ‘make do and mend’ mentality, recalling the war-time sentiment. Rather than throwing away clothes with holes in or looking past a garment with a stain on, you can elongate the lifetime of your pieces through patchwork. By patching up holes or stains with scrap materials from pillows, table cloths or kitchen towels you can re-energise the signs of wear-and-tear. Darning holes with opposing coloured thread also offers a new lease of life to your garment.

Ready-made patches can also be bought or you can create your own through embroidery.

original sound - jitterbybug

New Day, New Dye

Dyeing your garment is a sure way to invigorate your clothes with a new lease of life. Some materials such as cotton, silk etc. will respond better to dyes. Reminiscent of the '60s Summer of Love, tie-dye has made a comeback. By following a tie-dye kit or the DIY bleach method, you can imbue your style with a blast of ecstasy whilst California Dreamin’ rings in your ear.

You can also simply dye your item in block colours with dyes from your local craft shop or online.

original “sound - Teresa Caruso

Alteration Station

Altering your clothes is another option. This is not for the faint-hearted though. If you are not confident with the processes of altering, find your nearest tailors. Before embarking on a journey to the tailors, make sure you have a measuring tape handy so you can go in prepared with the details of what you want to do. You can ask to get things taken in, up and sometimes out depending on the garment. You can also ask to change the style entirely.

original sound - Kaitlyn

 

Simply Accessorize

Sustainable styling can also be about reducing expenses. If you have got a big event coming up and you have the urge to buy something new that you might not wear again, why not just look for accessories to reinvigorate your outfit like a scarf or some jewellery?

Groove Is in the Heart - The 90’s Band!

Reducing Time / Reducing Choice

Sustainable style can also be about reducing choice and time spent on daily outfits. You could plan your outfits around what you're doing in a week to save time. Or even pick a colour you could focus around this week. Or perhaps a specific silhouette. This way you can really start to narrow down your wardrobe and realise that you don’t need a lot of clothes to be stylish.

This way you can really start to narrow down your wardrobe and realise that you don’t need a lot of clothes to develop your personal style. This narrow approach is perfect if you are packing to go away: reducing space in the suitcase.

original sound - BuzzFeed!

Conscious consumption habits are not the end of the discussion around sustainable fashion. By approaching your everyday fashion looks through the lens of constant renewal through creative means, we begin to gain a greater appreciation for our clothes. This renewed appreciation allows us to move toward a more cyclical fashion industry and away from our inclination to consume and waste. And TikTok has the answers!

Oxford Street with fashion author and presenter Candice Brathwaite announces the launch of BEYOND NOW, the first sustainable initiative that sets to make a change in the way we shop our favourite high street brands.