As we all know the cost-of-living crisis is still hitting the UK hard and is making life very difficult for millions of people. From difficulty to heating homes, affording groceries or providing for families; it is a tough time for many.
Throughout the last couple of years, we have seen charities, food-banks and organisations having to support people with day-to-day expenses and needs.
Children’s charities have seen an increase in families applying for grants and support and food banks have seen a huge increase of people using them.
Throughout many have had to curtail some of the ‘luxuries’ that they can no longer afford. This includes buying new going out clothes, starting new hobbies, up-keeping old hobbies, eating out and trying new things.
But, through the hard times, people do seem to find a new way of thinking and still achieving but with different resources and in different ways. A casing example is those who like to dabble in creative outlets.
Creativity is not in crisis
It has been found lately that with the lack of disposable income has come a new wave of creatives who, sorry to use the old war-time saying which we all thought was a saying of the past now, make do and mend. They are also upcycling old clothes, customising them and giving them a new lease of life.
Buying cheap clothes and then adding personal touches are just one way that people are using their creative sides to find a way to making something new and beautiful out of something old. It is also a way people are personalising their own style, saving money creating something unique.
What can I do with my old clothes?
There are plenty of ways you can customise your old clothes and make them something new. Save the Student have suggested the following cool ways to make use of your old clothes:
Create cushion covers from old jumpers. Easy to do and look great. Replace your old and worn-out cushion covers with a new and unique look with ease.
Make a piece of art. Do you have a favourite t-shirt that you can’t bear to throw away? Frame it and hang it up on your wall as a piece of art and homage to your favourite band or a place you have been.
Baggy Ts into dresses. Have you found a shirt you love the look of but when you try it on, it is too big? Easy solution – turn it into a dress by a little sewing and modification.
Give your shoes a glow-up. Have you got an old pair of tatty trainers that have seen better days? Glitter them up to give them a new glow. You can find eco-friendly glues and glitter that can give your shoes a new shine.
As you can see there are plenty of ways you can customise your clothes without having to spend a fortune. So, we now know what to do with cheap clothes, but where do we get them?
Where can I find cheap clothes?
If you are one of the many who find the idea of cheap clothing as heaven, you’re in luck. There are so many ways to get clothes cheaply so you can unleash your creative side on them.
eBay. It is full of sellers looking to make a little money off of their old clothes. Clothes that are just looking for a new home and for someone to do something inspiring with. If you are a fan of second-hand clothes and Love Island, you’ll be happy to hear that they have gone into partnership again to promote the use of second hand clothes.
Charity shops. They are the goldmines of the high street when it comes to second-hand fashion and hidden treasures. Cheaper than high street shops and you can come away with designer brands at reasonable prices. The beauty of using a charity shop as well, is that you will also be supporting a good cause.
Kilo Sales. These are a great way to find a lot of cool clothes for a set price. You may find a few pairs of vintage Levi’s jeans or a retro jumper that you’ll love customising or wearing out. Part of the fun is rummaging around for a hidden gem!
Second hand shops. Slightly different to a charity shop but you will still find some awesome gear that is in need of a new home.
You can even help to raise some extra money for yourself or for a good cause by donating your unwanted clothes to a charity or by selling your preloved fashion yourself.
Why should I shop second hand?
Not only will it save your pocket or purse but it will also help to save the environment.
Shopping for second hand clothing saves thousands of tonnes of unused clothes and textiles from landfills around the world.
Fashion is one of the highest offending industries when it comes to environmental impact, with only the food, transport and housing industries above it. It has been estimated currently that:
- More than 25% of global carbon emissions will come from creating textiles by 2050.
- 35% of ocean plastic is estimated to have come from washing clothes containing polyester.
- $500 billion worth of textiles being wasted per year.
- The production of cotton uses up to a quarter if the pesticides used worldwide.
Even though times are tough, there are always ways to continue your creative outlets, find new and cool clothes, help to support charities, help to save the environment and improve your own mental wellbeing by carrying on doing the things you love to do.
Here at Little Lives UK, we are committed to ensuring that children and families get the right support when they need it. If you are in need of support during this tough time then please consider seeking help for the cost-of-living crisis or getting in contact with a community group which may be able to offer support for you and your family.
