Back to Uni: sustainable ways to upgrade your wardrobe

As the new academic year begins, students everywhere are looking to re-vamp their wardrobe. But – before you splash your cash on fast-fashion websites, think about how you can shop sustainably while building up your winter wardrobe.

Fast fashion contributes to a sizable portion of carbon emissions through over-production, shipping and waste. So, now, more than ever, it’s important to source your clothes sustainably and give them a long life in your wardrobe.

Lucky for you Sheffield has a great selection of second hand, vintage, and charity shops all over the city; so, you can get your fashion fix while being a responsible shopper!

Here are some of this season’s new trends and how you can get your hands on them from a second hand or sustainable source:

Track Jackets

For the streetwear lovers out there, you’ll be happy to hear that track jackets are a must-have this autumn. Keeping you stylish and comfy, track jackets are the perfect item to dress up or down for everyday wear.

But – where can you find them?

Pre-loved Kilo, 76 Division St, Sheffield City Centre.

For those on a budget Pre-loved Kilo on Divison St is full of affordable options. You can grab a kilo of second hand garms for £20 here. With new stock piling in regularly, Pre-loved kilo is great for all vintage and retro clothing.

Depop

Although this Depop can be on the pricey side, the infamous reselling platform is home to so many vintage gems you can get your hands on.

Afghan coats (The Penny Lane Jacket)

A shining star from last year’s fall trends, the Afghan Coat is a timeless garment that can stay in your wardrobe year after year and still look good.

An Afghan Coat is one of those items that will never go out of style, so once you’ve found a good one keep hold of it!

The best places to find these coats are Ebay and Asos Market place. There’s so many different colours and styles to choose from, you’re sure to find the right fit for you.

Ebay

Asos marketplace

Low rise jeans

Low rise jeans can be paired with pretty much everything and are such a good staple to get your hands on. Whether you’re looking for vintage Levi’s or True Religion jeans, these places always seem to have a few hidden gems.

Vulgar, Unit 2 129, The Forum, 127 Devonshire St, Sheffield City Centre.

If it’s designer you’re looking for, Vulgar is where you want to be. The vintage shop on Devonshire St packs quite the collection of vintage designer garments. From Moschino to Burberry, look here if you’re willing to splash out.

Vinted

Disclaimer

Even though shopping second-hand IS more sustainable than buying from fast fashion brand it’s always good to keep these questions in mind: Do I really want this or is it just a trend? OR Will I wear this more than once?

Give back what you get

After you’ve bought new clothes, it’s always a good idea to check your wardrobe to see if there’s anything you can give back. Charity shops in your local area are always in need of stock!

Edited by Madelynne Flack