Lets face it, we are all feeling the pinch at the moment. The cost of living crisis has made us all much more conscious of every penny that leaves our pockets.
The luxury items we would usually treat ourselves with have been replaced by basic necessities: energy bills, food shops and other everyday needs. We feel guilty for wanting to spend a bit of our hard earned money on ourselves, but people, we deserve to feel good, especially around Christmas!
Christmas and New year is a chance to spend time with our loved ones, but it is also a time to put on our glad rags and dazzle at that Christmas office party or sparkle during the New Year’s eve countdown. With things feeling tighter at the moment, that new outfit may seem out of reach, but there are ways to shop savvy and feel fabulous over the festive period.
Second hand shopping has increased in popularity over the past few years, with the growing consciousness of environmental issues and the rise of social media influencers who are bringing thrifting into the limelight.
The hashtag #secondhandfashion has 23.8 million hits on TikTok! Sustainable shopping is taking the world by storm and proving to be a major competitor to the fashion giants!
By shopping second hand, not only are you doing your part for the planet, but saving those precious pounds and finding fabulous looks for those all important occasions. From clothes to shoes, bags and accessories, You will without a doubt find an absolute gem that you wonder how you ever lived without or a vintage number that is suddenly back in fashion!
Shopping sustainably is now easier than ever, with shops popping up on the high street and online.
Charity Shops
Charity shops have always been present on our high streets, each relying on generous donations to support their various causes. Charity shops in London tend to have a little bit of everything, so not only could you could also pick up those last minute Christmas pressies but you could also find an amazing new outfit for that New Years Eve party by putting together second hand clothes! Cheaper costs in charity shops are sure to keep your purse strings happy! By shopping in Charity shops, you are also putting your money towards very worthwhile causes and spreading a little Christmas cheer to those in need.
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are the second hand shops taking our high streets by storm. Popular names such as Beyond Retro, Rokit and Atika are jaw dropping treasure troves of vintage, second hand goods. A paradise for vintage fanatics, there is no end of clothing, jewlery, sunglasses and knick knacks. Remember though, it is not just clothing that is available. There are many thrift stores that offer refurbished furniture and home goods. So if your new years resolution is to give your home a fresh new vibe, why not give the retro look a try?
Second hand selling platforms
Second hand selling platforms have taken over the internet! These platforms allow users to sell their unwanted good ands turn them into someone else’s treasure! Amongst the old favourites such as eBay and Facebook market place, newer platforms have been bursting onto the scene.
Online market places such as Dpop, which sell branded second hand clothes and Vinted, selling pre-loved fashion and home décor, are becoming increasingly popular. The added benefit of buying from these platforms is that some offer ‘buyer protection’ which means no money is taken until you have confirmed you are happy with the item. This is not all of them though so do check before you use them.
There are even platforms such as Freecycle which does not allow buying or selling, but rather people giving away unwanted items for free! You might find something amazing close by to you so its really worth a browse!
If you find yourself with lots of clothes you no longer wear yourself, why not donate to a charity? You can start 2023 clutter free and feel good that you have helped others less fortunate. Or, you can always sign up to one of the second hand selling platforms and make a bit of extra dough yourself!
Whatever you fancy, remember that there are options and guilt free ways to treat yourself during these hard times. Whether it’s that new outfit or something lovely for your home, save money and help the environment. Shop sustainable, pre loved.