Second time around
There is more to festive style than sequins, Lurex and feather trims. At least there could be, and should be. Stephanie Smith has suggestions on how to have yourself a kind little Christmas this year.
MODERN Christmas fashionistas are all about spreading a little good in the world, having a heart, caring for others and, of course, making sure that what we wear and give does not heap even more damage on the world. Buying preloved and second-hand is one way we can make sure Christmas does not add to the landfill of discarded clothes and accessories.
The Smart Works Leeds Festive Fashion
Fair is a great place to start. It takes place next Wednesday at the charity’s HQ at Mabgate Mills, Macaulay Street, Leeds. As a growing band of super-stylish sustainable fashion shoppers will testify, Smart Works sales offers the very best in high-quality preloved and new donated clothes and accessories, with soughtafter designer pieces waiting to be discovered. All proceeds go to help Smart Works Leeds dress and coach unemployed women across Yorkshire for job and interview success, so this really is shopping with a conscience.
Last month the charity hosted its inaugural Fashion as a Force for Good Ball at the Marriott Hotel in Leeds, hosted by the charity’s ambassador Natalie Anderson and journalist and presenter Christine Talbot.
It was attended by a host of prominent Yorkshire folk from TV, media, business, as well as many social-media influencers. It raised £10,000, which will go directly towards the running of the Smart Works Leeds service.
The Fashion as a Force for Good Awards celebrated Yorkshire fashion designers, influencers, stylists and retail outlets, using fashion with kindness. Retail team of the Year was
John Lewis Personal Styling Team; Emerging Designer of the Year was Sarah Thomspon of TOM-O in Leeds Corn Exchange; Indie of the Year was Yorkshire-based Ukrainian fashion umbrella brand Nenya and Influencer of the Year was stylist Laura Fawcett.
Smart Works Leeds supporter and sustainable fashion influencer Penny Hindle has her own tips on making sure Christmas does not cost the earth.
“I hate the idea of a new piece of clothing being bought to be worn once at Christmas and then never again so I love buying festive pieces second-hand and being able to add some glam without breaking the bank. Also the festive season is messy so going out in a dress that cost less than the drink you’re holding is always a good idea.
“One of my favourite gifts I’ve bought over the years, mostly for my sister, are vintage and designer clothes, shoes and bags. I love seeing her wear and love throughout the year something I’ve found for her, especially knowing it was a sustainable bargain.”
Repairing and reusing clothes and accessories that you (or a loved one) already own can be a thoughtful and sustainable Christmas gift, as Barbour’s Christmas cam