My love affair with style started in the dress-up box. My sisters and I spent most of our childhood playing make believe and fishing for tadpoles in backyard creek, princess dresses trailing behind us in the water as we waded up to our knees in the shallows. While luckily, my style has evolved beyond sequins and fuschia pink satin, fashion has always been a form of self expression. There is so much creativity in style we choose and the identity our clothes create.
Recently, I’ve been trying to curate a more sustainable and intentional wardrobe, based loosely around the concept of a capsule wardrobe but with more flexibility. I’ve long been aware of the impact that fashion has on our world and have only tried to buy items I will wear many times. However, The True Cost revolutionalised the way I see clothes. Now, what I choose to wear is not only as a form of self expression and creativity but also a way to express my values.
I’ve been so impressed at how many brands are taking sustainability into consideration and I’m excited to support and buy from brands who are making a difference (I love using the Good on You to do this). However, I think a large piece of the puzzle is over consumption and we need to ensure what we already own goes the extra mile. I’ve been challenging myself to shop for more pre-loved and vintage items and to wear what I have in new ways. Having fun playing with different combinations has given me licence to be more creative about styling pieces I already own.
Vintage shopping doesn’t come easily to me. The push and shove of hangers and the hold-your-breath moment to see if it fits in the change room can be frustrating. However, like many things, you are rewarded for your patience, and when you find a gem like this suede trench coat there’s quite a thrill to it. I don’t know if it’s real vintage or not, but it sounds classier than I-found-this-in-an-op-shop, so I’ll run with it. I’m excited to try a few different vintage stores and have been coveting some of the items on Trading in Style and the Vestiaire Collective.
I’d love to know you’re thoughts…Do you see style as a form of creative self expression? Have you seen the True Cost? What are you’re favourite go-to vintage finds?
