I spent 15 years in fashion where cheap mass produced clothes came to dominate the market. However, the idea of buying something and wearing it once and then discarding feels like such a backward trend - going forward.
Sustainable, recycling and reusing are the buzz words of the moment. Trendy sewing and knitting shops seem to be popping up in affluent middle class areas. Charity shops have really upped their game and vintage markets and car boot sales become destination
attractions. Even renting posh clothes is
becoming a much more popular affair.
I've always liked the idea of spending a bit more on items that you wear or use regularly. Like a good pair jeans, trainers, bag or even yoga leggings. It goes back to this idea of of working out what things you love or bring you joy and what things you can do without. Looking after 'our stuff' better and living with less. As we all have too much 'stuff' don't we?
This links to santosha which is the second niyama in yoga. The niyamas are about our own ethical principles and values. Santosha translates as contentment.
Going back to clothes - here's just a little thought on demin and jeans, which are a staple to almost everyone's wardrobe. We all know that cotton production and denim has been widely reported as being extremely bad for the planet.
It's also kind of ironic that denim originally designed for 'workwear', should not be laundered regularly. This process adds to the wear and tear and obviously uses more energy, more water and more waste.
Most repairs are really not that hard and there are some really great Youtube videos if you search them out. Darning being one of them. All you need is some tonal threads, a needle and a patch of iron on fabric (interfacing or similar) or a patch of denim. I've used the inside of pockets before.
It is honestly extremely satisfying to give a pre loved, worn out item, a new lease of life like this. I've set up a few photo's as a guide in the 'create, make and do' section of this website, to show the basic method.
I hope you find it inspiring and maybe give it a go? Please do share with me any stories or repairs you make too. Maybe next time question whether your jeans 'really' do need that wash?
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