As the seasons change, so does what we wear. So far, this autumn has been sunny, stormy and everything in between. However, just because it is a new era, doesn’t mean we have to buy new. The second-hand market is a great place to get dressed for less.
What we buy is bigger than us and we can all do a little something by avoiding buying new as much as possible. That said, we all want to feel cool – there’s a delicate balance to be struck.
That balance could be helped by personal style which is intrinsic to expressing who we are. As Gianni Versace said: “Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way to live.”
This season a few key trends have shown, many of which come around every year.
- Midi skirts.
A classic. A part of an ensemble that Vogue has labelled ‘high fashion frump’ (think Frazzled English Women). The longer length will help keep you warm and is super cute paired with trainers or lower cut boots. (Tip: If you have longer skirts you love you can tuck or pin it to a bra or t-shirt to play with the length)
- Casual elegance.
This is a style that works for everyone. The ‘old money’ aesthetic is starting to morph into a more relaxed style. Try tailored straight leg trousers with a baggy jumper and loafers. Many of these pieces are timeless too.
- Stripes.
Stripes in all shapes and forms were seen on the runways this year but they don’t need to be editorial. A simple striped tee or funky jumper paired with your favourite bottoms are all you need to jump on this.
- Lace.
Although things are cooling down, lace was popular this autumn/ winter season. Saint Laurant, Gucci and Chloé all showed lace dresses, skirts and tops. You could opt for a lacy shirt for a romantic feel or lacy tights for a more subtle effect
Being on trend is fun but remember, these trends don’t last long. Try to invest in pieces you truly love that can be worn over and over again.
Dr Sass Brown, Kingston University course leader for sustainable fashion, tells The River: “I don’t believe in fashion trends. What I do think is valuable is to understand what works for our own bodies and flatters us, what communicates our own values and represents a personal sense of style.”
In a world where we are constantly being advertised to and encouraged to buy more it feels like we’re always behind. But it’s a trap. Remember the strawberry dress, ‘mob-wife’ aesthetic and BRAT green? These things are now buried in the back of our wardrobes – or in the bin.
As Brown believes, “whatever your taste, there are ways of fulfilling it more sustainably, whether by purchasing second hand, wearing what you already own and repairing or redesigning what can no longer be worn on your own or with help. Loved clothes last and the longer we love and wear what we already own then the longer we keep them out of landfill.”
Tips for searching on second hand apps:
- Have patience. There is a LOT on these apps which can make it tough but it’s worth it!
- Don’t search for specific aesthetics
- Be specific about the pieces. Instead of ‘old money’ search for an item within it like ‘wool skirt’ or ‘high waist straight leg trousers’
- If you don’t know where to start, search for brands you already know and love. The Vinted algorithm is pretty good and before long it will suggest things you’ll love
- Use the filters as much as possible, size, colour, pattern, price, anything to find your thing.
- Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask for more details or pictures if you’re not sure about something