Now that Black Friday is over, the countdown to Christmas has begun. A time of bargain-hunting and binge-buying - but all that seems totally out of step with the sombre reality of the climate crisis. But there is a way to partake without falling down a rabbit hole lined with 50% off stickers. Here is Grazia's guide on how to shop fashion sustainably on a budget this year - because we can make a difference.
A whole host of brands are subverting the very nature of fast fashion and introducing the concept of slow fashion - ethically, sustainably-sourced clothing that doesn't make a dent on your conscience. Wouldn't that be nice!
Whether they’re donating proceeds from sales to charity or actively campaigning against over-consumption with their eco-friendly and sustainable actions, these are the brands to check out.
Here's to slow fashion.
SHOP: Shop Sustainably For Less With These Fashion Brands
Winter sale now on
If you're after unique, sustainable pieces for your wardrobe revamp - look no further than Joanie. They currently have up to 60% off in their winter sale. As well as being B Corp certified, Joanie focuses on the use of sustainable, more responsibly sourced fabrics, making improvements within supply chains, and working to reduce waste.
Donation to Shelter
FatFace has always prided itself on its sustainability ventures, launching its first sustainability strategy back in 2008 (over ten years ago!) Also a certified B corporation, FatFace is partnering up with the charity Shelter to donate 10% of every sale to work on fighting against the devastating impact the housing emergency has. With FatFace being an already affordable brand, this is a fantastic opportunity to help the world and get a shopping kick.
15% off pre-loved fashion
As pre-loved fashion becomes more and more popular, we emphasise to the reader never to forget eBay - the founder of all things secondhand. Often overlooked, eBay has some incredible fashion deals to take advantage of, including 15% off during Christmas using the code MERRY15.
Up to 30% off eco-friendly fashion
Bamboo viscose is an extremely sustainable material (see more on that below) so we're over the moon that BAM has a clearance sale where you can grab their already affordable stock, including socks, leggings and activewear.
Why bamboo is sustainable: Bamboo requires very few resources to grow. Not only does bamboo grow at a rapid speed but it biodegrades faster than oil-based synthetics. Bamboo rarely needs harsh pesticides to grow, and if there is sufficient rainfall, additional watering is not required. It can reach heights over 75 feet in just 40 to 60 days, and when cut down, it regenerates naturally through a large root system that sends out around four to six new shoots per year.
Bundle packs of reusable periodwear
Did you know that individually, one can create around 259kg of period disposable waste in a lifetime? Modibodi, our favourite period underwear brand, tackle this statistic head-on, decreasing it to only 12.8kg of waste created using their reusable period underwear. You can get bundle packs and save a lot of money that way.
77% off sustainable Dutch fashion
A site filled with beautiful, Scandi-inspired clothing, Baukjen has an outlet section where you can get items for up to 77% off their original price. Although they are a little on the expensive side as a whole, because of the high-quality sustainable material they work from, the outlet page allows for some of that to be rectified.
Archive sale on recycled bags and gift cards
Kind Bag London makes the most adorable reusable totes and backpacks, made from recycled plastic bottles originally destined for the ocean or landfill. To date, the brand has repurposed over 5 million plastic bottles. In their Archive Sale, you can previous designs at a discount, although their New Arrivals are not overly expensive for what they offer.
Sale on sustainable cottagecore fashion
Pink Lemons has great discounts on their dresses, accessories and more. If you're in desperate need of a floaty, fairy-esque dress in your life - you'll be in good hands. Each collection is designed by the founder Leah in a studio in the garden overlooking the forest. The collection focuses on femininity, colour, organic fabrics and being kind to Mother Nature.
Ruby Barry is a Product Writer for Grazia, specialising in fashion and beauty. She loves finding dupes for clothes worn in TV & film, and is currently binge-watching Succession.