Style By Numbers » thrift

Climate Changing Room*

laurendare — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:27:39 +0000

Today is Blog Action Day, so in that spirit I’m bringing you this post from the Climate Changing Room*. We’ve all heard about climate change and have seen quite dramatically (especially in the last few weeks) how changing weather patterns are impacting communities across the world–especially those that are least equipped to adapt or respond to emergencies.

But listen, don’t let climate change get you down. You can still look fantastic while doing your bit to help the earth. So why don’t you step into the Climate Changing Room and try these ideas on for size…

Your perfect Eco Chic includes bamboo, fair trade cotton, vegan shoes, thrifted or upcycled pieces

Thrift Y’all know I’m into thrifting. Not only can you find fantastic pieces (sometimes vintage) at amazing deals, but you reducing, reusing and recycling. Make sure you give as much as you buy–donate your clothes to charity, don’t ever throw them away! You never know what treasures you’ll find so hit the thrift stores, flea markets or online markets before you head up the High Street.

See my most favourite thrifted/vintage outfit

Thrift Smarter: You can make your thriftiness go farther by shopping at charity shops for organisations working to address climate change. Luckily for us gals Oxfam is not only a leader in the climate campaign, they are also tops of the charity shops. I’ve never visited an Oxfam shop in Dublin without finding something amazing. Plus they have specialty shops for vintage, bridal, books and home goods. While prices may be slightly higher at Oxfam, you know that your purchase is going to find sustainable solutions to climate change. That’s a one-two-punch!

Read about my adventures in Oxfaming

Go Eco: Fair trade is everywhere and totally mainstream. There’s no reason for not owning at least one fair trade cotton item in your wardrobe. The social and environmental benefits of fair trade will make those comfy M&S socks feel all the better on your feet. Big retailers like M&S and Tesco have great deals on fair trade cotton essentials, so set the right foundation for the environment with your foundation garments!

Read about M&S Plan A and shop their Greener Living products

*I totally stole that title from an event we had at my old job.

Dress for Good

laurendare — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 16:44:25 +0000

I felt like a happy housewife in this dress–probably because I was entertaining family and arranging flowers. I love the abstract orange pattern and the fitted bodice of this dress. It’s a bit snug, but it makes the ruched waist look perfect.

Dress: Zara (from the Down Syndrome Centre Buy My Dress Sale…read about it here

Tank: Victoria’s Secret

Shoes: Schuh

Necklace: Accessorize

Spring Cleaning

laurendare — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 21:58:57 +0000

Oxfam recently reported that sales in charity shops across the UK are going through the roof. Suddenly our favourite thrift stores are mainstream. The recession may reduce pay packets, but not our instinct to shop.

All this activity is great, as sales help support important charities and causes. But clothes are flying off the racks, and not coming back. According to Oxfam, 75% of UK closets have an unworn item. Go ahead, take a look—you know you’ll find some tags in there.

Share the wealth. If you have a less-than-loved clothes, bring them into a local shop. Charities need the support and your neighbours need the bargains.

Savvy girls know that it pays to hit up the charity shops, but you’ve got to give a little to get a little.

StyleByNumbers Tip: Get motivated! For every 6 pieces you give back, take one new treasure home to set your spring style in bloom.