THIS bag doesn’t cost the earth. That’s the latest slogan emblazoned across tote bags on the high street.
It shows that shops may be becoming friendlier to the planet– but it seems to be having a disheartening effect on the purse strings.
Finding eco-friendly alternatives to high street brands can be hard. When looking through catalogues that specialise in Fairtrade and organic clothing, I find they only seem to supply clothing suitable for people my mother’s age.
Don’t be dismayed yet though, because there are options that are cheap, satisfying and will help save those darn polar bears.
Like charity shops. I swear by them. Each one contains a treasure trove of jewellery shoes and clothing, at prices cheaper than most average stores.
Everything in there is always in good condition and you know it will always be unique.
Oxfam has a great shop dedicated to vintage clothing at very reasonable prices. Markets are regularly held all over West Yorkshire filled with fabulous finds.
If you want to be even meaner with your cash, try getting stuff for free. Something that has fuelled my wardrobe for years is other people’s wardrobes – swapping garments is an up-coming thing right across the globe.
Have a good rummage through your friends’, mum’s and even your friends’ mum’s wardrobe.
Fashions turn around quickly – so my mum’s funky-hued collection of tights and footless leggings have become staples for every outfit over the past few months.
Having lunch with my Gran made me the proud, new owner of a hand-knitted slouchy hat which would cost around £10 on the high street – this is guilt-free shopping to the max!
But if you can’t get past the charity shop smell of old ladies and cats or don’t like second hand gear, there are many more things that can be done.
Learning new skills such as knitting, crocheting and sewing can be done fairly quickly – and just in time for winter blues.
So, being green doesn’t have to break the bank. All it takes is a bit of determination and one brilliant find to empower your inner green shopaholic!
