Go Green, Spend Less: Being Fashionable on a Student Budget
Harriet Ann Adjabeng, MSc. Sustainability and Consultancy (She/Her/Hers)
Part of my MSc in Sustainability and Consultancy is helping people to understand how they can make sustainable changes in their lives. There are lots of ways to stay fashionable whilst prioritising sustainability and managing your finances as a student. Keeping sustainability in mind not only contributes to environmental well-being but also creates significant long-term cost savings. By making small swaps to your daily routine, you can contribute to sustainability efforts whilst also improving your financial wellbeing. Here are my tips to stay fashionable, whilst saving money.
1. Renting and borrowing
Before you start shopping for another new outfit, try borrowing clothing from friends for events, socials, or just to freshen up your wardrobe. You can also use rental services that offer a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for occasions when you need a specific outfit. You might want to consider rental platforms like By Rotation, HURR, My Wardrobe HQ, Hirestreet, and others for budget-friendly options.
2. Minimalism and Versatility
Embrace a minimalist approach to fashion by focusing on quality over quantity. Invest in versatile pieces that can be worn in multiple ways, instead of buying multiple cheaply made items that wear out quickly. A fantastic way to introduce minimalism into your wardrobe is by investing in versatile pieces such as a classic button-down white shirt, a pair of denim trousers, and adaptable loafers that can be styled in various ways. These staples form the foundation of a minimal wardrobe. I also draw inspiration for sustainable lifestyle living from Sustainably Chic and My Green Closet.
3. Take Care of Your Clothes
The primary method for saving money involves caring for your clothes to prolong their lifespan. Embracing a lifestyle that avoid your clothes ending up in landfills is essential to sustainable living as a student. Extend the longevity of your clothes by washing them only when necessary, using cold water, and opting for hang-drying whenever possible.
You can also get creative and personalize your wardrobe by upcycling old or thrifted clothing. DIY projects like adding patches, embroidery, or distressing denim can give new life to old pieces and allow you to express your personal style. I suggest checking out the Sewing Ideas on Youtube for a huge range of video tutorials on how to upcycle clothes and make them last longer.
4. Educate Yourself and Ask Questions
Did you know that you can advocate for sustainability by encouraging your preferred brands to share the correct ways to maintain and responsibly dispose of clothing? You can reach out to brands directly through social media, email, or their customer service channels, to learn more about garment care.
It’s also important to stay informed about brands that are eco-friendly in their production processes, prioritize ethical manufacturing, and support initiatives that promote sustainability and ethical practices. By being aware of the issues, you can make more informed purchases and advocate for positive change within the industry. The University of Leeds Sustainability Service offers a variety of sustainability education programs, initiatives, and resources that you can benefit from.
Embracing a sustainable and budget-friendly approach to fashion as a student is not only feasible but also rewarding. By incorporating habits like second-hand shopping, renting, and minimalism, you can stay fashionable while reducing your environmental impact and saving money. Taking care of your clothes, staying informed about sustainable brands, and engaging in educational initiatives further empower you to make conscious choices. Together, these actions contribute not only to a more sustainable lifestyle but also to a healthier financial outlook. Remember that small, mindful choices can lead to lasting positive impacts on both your personal style and the world around you.
