HOW TO SHOP SUSTAINABLY, ACCORDING TO OUR BUYERS
Sustainability isn’t just another trend; it’s the future of fashion. Meet three Boutique Buyers who are putting the planet first…
Where transient trends once dominated the fashion sphere, the idea of buying less and buying well has officially permeated our collective consciousness.
New sustainable designers keep popping up, and catchy terms like ‘capsule closet’ and ‘slow fashion’ are now a permanent part of our sartorial vocabulary. Earthy tones, organic fibres and timeless shapes have infiltrated our wardrobes, and we’re rethinking our buying habits. No doubt about it: shopping with your conscience is the way forward.
But this doesn't mean ignoring exciting trends or passing up on your dream dress because it's not 100% sustainable. The first step to a more conscious closet is being mindful about your purchases. Consider if you'll cherish a piece, or will it be tossed aside in a few months' time?
For our boutiques, avoiding the latter scenario is top priority. By introducing their customers to ethically minded labels, season-less pieces and eco-friendly fabrics, they're playing a valuable part in putting fast fashion behind us. So, if you're curious about how to shop sustainably, hear what these three boutique owners have to say.
Treen, Edinburgh
“Making sustainable choices when it comes to fashion can feel complicated, so we founded Treen to stock incredible clothing and accessories that are vegan and positive impact as standard. All of our brands have their own story of sustainability, but our number one tip to shop better is to ask more questions. We explain the materials, ethics and values behind all our carefully chosen products online, but we are always on hand to chat more about our brands. Special mentions go to Kowtow, Girlfriend Collective and OhSevenDays. Come join us at Treen!”
– Cat, Owner & Buyer
Noted, Herefordshire
“Our thoughtful process of buying here at Noted aims to break the cycle of over-consumption by introducing a slower, more sustainable way of consuming. We do this by supporting the innovative craftsmanship in our brands, such as Selected Femme with their use of organic and recycled fibres in their collections, as well as concentrating on providing beautiful capsule wardrobe options, resulting in longevity and endless wearability for our customers. Like we say at Noted, “it’s time to dress up, and slow down.””
– Laura, Owner & Buyer
Found Hea, Bristol
“Did you know it takes 7,000 litres of water to make a standard pair of jeans? At Found Hea, we’re working with brands to change that. Our brand MUD Jeans now use 577 litres of water per pair, our activewear is made from recycled plastic bottles and we even have a dress made from beech tree (it’s one of the softest items in store!). We started Found Hea to transform the fashion industry and we’re proud to be supporting brands doing just that.”
– Sam, Founder
The look: smart shorts The look: smart shorts Whether you’re back in the office or still WFH, rising temperatures call for a smart but breezy uniform. These taupe-colored shorts by Aussie label Nicholas offer exactly the kind of easy sophistication we need right now. Cut culotte-style, with flattering wide legs, they look best paired with a fitted tank top and barely-there sandals that will further highlight their generous proportions and create a lean silhouette. Just add a sleek blazer in a matching neutral hue for important video calls. 
On Judging A Jumpsuit A Uniform For The Rosy-Cheeked Workers Of Busy Towns In , before rubbing a length of Saran Wrap against his crotch, Danny Zuko finds his lackeys at the auto shop, working on a car. They are dressed as a Greek chorus of grease monkeys, clad in dirty greige jumpsuits, each one half-unzipped to reveal a crisp, clean, all-American white t-shirt below. When Zuko asks if any of them can drive, they all say no. The jumpsuits are a front: a highly successful window dressing, a costume of a costume. 