With many retail stores being forced to close their doors for months following the coronavirus pandemic, many High Street shops will soon be reopening. But with many of the stores reopening famed for their fast fashion practices, this is an ideal time to begin shopping more consciously.

Millions are shopping less

Once we return back to normal, it’s important that we remember the fact that we didn’t need a new outfit every week during the lockdown, and we don’t need a new one for every night out once bars reopen. Society has re-evaluated what truly matters during the pandemic, and millions are beginning to shop less.

With stores like Primark reopening, bringing with them convenience and affordability, it’s going to be difficult for people to not return to their fast fashion buying habits. And it makes sense - people can rely on fast fashion shops and online websites to fulfil their need to buy a new outfit on a low budget. It’s going to be hard for people to not return to fast fashion habits, and we understand why.

People are saving more

According to a new survey, the pandemic has turned the British nation into a group of savers. Savings deposits were up by £13bn in March alone.

People haven’t had to buy new wardrobes for holidays, or purchase new dresses for occasions - at least, not often. The opportunity to buy has decreased, as had the requirement for new items. Since we’re saving more, we urge people to remember to choose quality over quantity.

Sustainable shoppers are on the rise

Research by the Fashion Retail Academy has revealed that the number of sustainable shoppers in the UK has increased by a third in 12 months - the appetite is there. The fashion industry is responsible for 10 percent of annual global carbon emissions, more than all international flights, according to the United Nations Environment Programme.

This reset is a new chance for people to have an impact on the greener world. People are generally saving more during coronavirus as they’ve been more money conscious due to the uncertainty of jobs. It’s a chance to get one step closer to fixing fashion’s sustainability issue by increasing the number of mindful shoppers.

Why not save up for that new skirt or pair of jeans and spend a bit extra to have a pair which are ethically made and last longer? We can bet you opted for your quality basics during lockdown to lounge around in!

Fast-fashion has to change

The fast fashion industry has to change if the UK is to meet its climate change targets. Do you actually need that item just for one night out, or is it better to save a little extra for an outfit which will last you for years?

Take a think at what truly matters. We all like getting new things, but isn’t it better to save up for better quality items that have been created with worker’s rights in mind?

We understand that fast fashion stores offer a convenient, affordable way to buy things without waiting for delivery - you get it right there and then. But wearing something once then never again is an attitude which is founded on fast fashion practices - at least make sure you’re going to get good use out of it.

Check out our new upcycled collections.