Second Hand September Tips with Helena, aka Ditsy Floral!

 


Happy Second Hand September TOG babes! 

If you've not heard of it before, in 2019 Oxfam began the campaign challenging people to only buy preloved items for 30 days - which has never been more important than right now!

Now I know I'm preaching to the converted to all of you guys, who have probably all been shopping vintage for years, but it's vital to highlight the importance of reducing our impact on the planet. With so many companies greenwashing and taking advantage of those with an eco-conscience, remember that the most environmentally friendly thing you can do is promote a circular economy!

SO we have enlisted the help of one of favourite creators - Helena Smith Parucker (aka @ditsy.floral) to get her tips on a successful Second Hand September this year!



            1. Create a list of your dream pieces or just things you're looking for so you can tick them off when you find them. 


            2. Think about different ways to describe a particular piece of clothing. For example, I love big, flowy, hippie maxi skirts. So I use lots of different key words like: tiered, ruffled, fairy, hippie, whimsigoth, velvet, chiffon, silk, circle. 


            3. Create a list of brands that you can search and filter for on depop and vinted. This works best for items that are from the 90s onwards but that isn't a definite rule. I always look out for Laura Ashley, Gunne Sax and Monsoon. 


            4. If ever you find something you like but it's from somewhere like urban outfitters you will guaranteed be able to find it on vinted and depop, even if it means waiting a couple months. 


            5. Patience is key. You won't always find what you want in the first 10 minutes of searching. 


            6. Become part of the vintage fashion community on Instagram. There are loads of lovely small businesses and collectors. You can develop great friendships and sometimes even trade pieces.


 


By buying vintage, trading with friends, or shopping second hand (especially in charity shops who really need our help right now with apps like depop!), we CAN reduce the amount of new items made and make a difference! 

Happy vintage shopping! 

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