We spend over £20 billion on clothes every year – so it seems shopping is a national hobby.
Make the most from your current wardrobe without needing to buy lots and lots of new clothes.
Reduce
- Only buy clothes you love and know you will wear.
- Follow the washing instructions to help clothes last longer.
- If you spill something on your clothes rinse it immediately to stop permanent staining.
- Rotate your clothes to stop them wearing out quickly.
- Hire for special occasions. If you’ll only wear something once see if you can hire it. Hats, suits and dresses can all be rented.
- Borrow clothes from your friends.
Reuse
- Donate clothing that can be worn again to a charity shop for re-sale.
- Organise a swap party with your friends and family.
- Buy clothes from charity shops.
Repair
- Make basic repairs. Sew buttons back on and repair hems that have come undone.
- Find a sewing course. Use the hot courses website to find a course near you or ask at your local school or college. Courses are also advertised in your local council magazine.
Recycle
- If your clothes can’t be reused then put them in a textile bank so they are recycled.
£23 billion is spent on clothes each year in the UK