10 Ways to be sustainable with your old clothes

Are you all for sustainability, but can’t always afford the high prices sustainability comes with? There are plenty of options to up-cycle, reinvent and customise clothing without breaking the bank.

From mixing and matching to experimenting with colour and texture, there are endless possibilities to create new outfits from your existing pieces.

Up-cycling is becoming increasingly popular as people look for sustainable ways to update their wardrobe. With a little imagination, old clothes can be transformed into something completely new.

With these tips, you can give your wardrobe the refresh it needs without spending a fortune on new clothes!

1. Mix and match

Try pairing different pieces of clothing together to create new outfits. This technique allows individuals to express their creativity and personal style by pairing items that may not traditionally go together.

When mix and matching clothing, it is important to consider color, texture, and pattern to ensure that the outfit looks cohesive.

Some tips for successful mix and matching include starting with a neutral base, incorporating statement pieces, and experimenting with layering. Pair a dress with a denim jacket or a skirt with a graphic tee.

Overall, mix and matching clothing is a fun and creative way to elevate your fashion game.

2. Accessorise

Accessorising is another great way to add a new dimension to an outfit. Accessories can include jewellery, scarves, hats, belts, and bags. When choosing accessories, it’s important to consider the color, texture, and style of the clothing being worn.

For example, a statement necklace can add a pop of color to a simple black dress, while a belt can cinch in a flowy top to create a more defined silhouette.

Additionally, accessories can be used to dress up or dress down an outfit depending on the occasion. If I am wearing a pretty dress I always accessories with gothic pieces to tone down the prettiness of a dress, or if I am casual, I can tone the outfit up with bold statement pieces

Overall, accessorizing is a fun and creative way to personalize and elevate any outfit.

3. Layer up

Layering is a popular technique to enhance clothing style. It involves wearing multiple layers of clothing on top of each other to create a fashionable and functional look.

The key to successful layering is to choose pieces that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and style. For example, a simple t-shirt can be layered with a denim jacket, scarf, and beanie for a chic and cozy look.

Layering not only adds depth and dimension to an outfit but also provides warmth and versatility. It allows you to mix and match different pieces in your wardrobe to create new and exciting looks.

Layering up with scarves or jackets can also transform a simple outfit into something more stylish. Layering can add depth and interest to your outfits. Try layering a sweater over a button-up shirt or a turtleneck under a dress.

4. DIY

If you’re feeling creative, why not try some DIY projects or alterations? DIY Clothing tricks are a great way to save money and express your creativity.

One popular trick is to use bleach to create unique designs on dark clothing items. Another trick is to use fabric paint or markers to add designs or patterns to plain clothing items.

You can also repurpose old clothing items by cutting them up and sewing them into new pieces, such as turning an old t-shirt into a crop top or a pair of jeans into shorts.

Additionally, adding patches, embroidery or studs to clothing items can give them a personalised touch. With a little creativity and some basic sewing skills, the possibilities for DIY clothing are endless.

5. Alterations

Take your clothes to a tailor or learn how to do simple alterations yourself to make them fit better or have a different style. Cutting and sewing the garment into a completely new style.

You can challenge yourself to do this also, there are several ways to alter clothes, including taking in or letting out seams, shortening or lengthening hems, and adding darts or pleats.

To get started, you’ll need some basic sewing supplies such as a sewing machine, thread, pins, and scissors. First, try on the garment and identify where it needs to be altered. Then, use pins to mark the areas that need to be taken in or let out.

Next, use a sewing machine or needle and thread to make the necessary alterations. With a little bit of time and effort, you can transform your old clothes into something that fits better and feels new again.

6. Upcycle

One popular trend is “upcycling,” which involves taking old clothing and turning it into something entirely new and unique.

This can be done by combining different pieces of clothing, adding new elements like zippers or buttons, or even using the fabric to create something entirely different like a bag or pillowcase.

By altering old clothes, you not only give them a new look but also reduce waste and promote sustainability.

7. Experiment with colour

Try wearing colours you don’t normally wear or mix and match unexpected colour combinations. Experimenting with colour when dressing can be a fun and creative way to express your personal style.

When choosing colours, it’s important to consider your skin tone, hair colour, and eye colour to find shades that complement your natural features.

You can also experiment with different color combinations, such as complementary colours (colours opposite each other on the color wheel). Analogous colours (colours next to each other on the color wheel). Or monochromatic colours (different shades of the same color).

Additionally, you can use color to create a mood or convey a message. For example, red is often associated with passion and energy, while blue is calming and serene. Overall, experimenting with color can add interest and personality to your wardrobe.

8. Play with textures

Mixing and matching different materials is a great way to create a new style that is unique and eye-catching.

One way to do this is by combining different textures, such as pairing a smooth silk blouse with a chunky knit cardigan.

Another approach is to mix contrasting materials, such as leather and lace or denim and velvet. It’s important to keep the overall look cohesive by choosing colours that complement each other and sticking to a consistent theme or aesthetic.

Additionally, accessorising with statement pieces can help tie the different materials together and add an extra element of interest to the outfit.

9. Swap with friends

Don’t forget about swapping clothes with friends or renting/borrowing outfits for special occasions. Host a clothing swap with friends to get new-to-you pieces without spending any money.