Now I know how tempting it is to splash out in the sales, but you have to be cautious not get carried away by the marked down price tag. Think carefully before you whack out your wallet- do you really need the item? How often will you wear/use it? Is it good quality? What conditions was it made in? Do you agree with the company’s ethos and operating processes? Even if it’s made by a sustainability-conscious company, having items you don’t use is a waste of your money, as well as the materials and labour that went into producing the product. So take your time and really think about it.
If you are looking for a bargain and aren’t sure what environmentally or socially aware companies there are to choose from, here’s a short list of my favourite brands currently in sale season, and some of my summer sale picks:
- The Acey – http://www.the-acey.com
- Gather and See – https://www.gatherandsee.com
- Bibico – http://www.bibico.co.uk
- Kowtow – https://www.kowtowclothing.com
- Matt & Nat – http://mattandnat.com
- People Tree – http://www.peopletree.co.uk
- The Body Shop – http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk
- Komodo – https://www.komodo.co.uk
Left: Building Block Boat Neck Dress by Kowtow, organic & fair trade cotton, £47. Right: Charcoal Olgara Twist Dress by Komodo, tencel & linen, £64
Both dresses are perfect for multiple occasions; dress them up with a statement necklace and heels, stay smart with a blazer and courts, keep it casual with trainers or pumps, or wear them at the weekend or for after work drinks with boots.
The Wes Vegan Tote Bag by Matt and Nat, £84
This tote is ideal for a variety of events, fill it up with food shopping, take it on a weekend trip, bring it to the gym, or simply use it as your trusty everyday bag. The front compartment also detaches into a cute clutch, perfect to take to after work drinks or a night on the town.
Left: Grey Oversize Crew Neck Jumper by Bibico, £48. Right: Classic Breton Stripe Jumper by Bibico, £41
Both of these brilliant Bibico jumpers are classic, timeless additions to your wardrobe. Perfect in Spring/Summer over a t-shirt, with a light jacket in Autumn and a heavy coat in Winter, they can be worn all year round.