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Turn Your Halloween Green
Do you Dare to Rewear? A Sustainable Approach to Spooktacular Style
October 2023
Halloween is a time for creativity, fun, and of course, costumes! But it’s also an occasion where the fashion industry can contribute to unnecessary waste and environmental harm. This October, why not take a different approach to Halloween costumes by going eco-friendly? In this blog post, we’ll explore how to create fantastic, sustainable Halloween costumes that not only look great but also leave a positive impact on the planet.
The Environmental Impact of Halloween Costumes
Before we dive into creating sustainable Halloween costumes, let’s take a moment to understand the environmental impact of conventional costumes. Most store-bought Halloween costumes are made from synthetic materials like polyester, which are derived from petroleum and are not biodegradable. Additionally, these costumes are often produced under questionable labor conditions and may not stand the test of time, leading to further waste.
The 3 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
1. Reduce: Choose Minimalist Costumes
One of the most eco-friendly approaches to Halloween costumes is to embrace minimalism. Minimalist costumes are simple, use fewer materials, and often involve items you already have. Consider classic characters like a black cat, a mummy, or a scarecrow. These costumes require minimal accessories and are kind to your wallet and the environment.
2. Reuse: Raid Your Wardrobe and Shop Secondhand
Before running to the store for a costume, take a look at your own closet and consider the possibilities. You might find the perfect pieces to create a unique costume without contributing to fashion waste. Additionally, thrift stores are treasure troves for affordable costume pieces that can be repurposed, and you’re also supporting a sustainable shopping approach.
3. Recycle: Eco-Friendly Materials
If you do need to purchase new costume pieces, opt for those made from sustainable and recycled materials. Look for costumes and accessories that use organic cotton, hemp, or recycled polyester. These materials have a lower environmental impact and are often more comfortable to wear.
DIY Halloween Costumes
1. Upcycled Zombie: Give new life to old clothing by creating a zombie costume. Tear, stain, and distress clothing you no longer wear to achieve that “undead” look. Use eco-friendly fake blood or red food colouring for added effects.
2. Nature-Inspired Costumes: Connect with nature by dressing up as a tree, a flower, or an animal. These costumes can be made from natural and recycled materials. Craft your costume with leaves, twigs, and other elements found in your backyard.
3. Recycled Superhero: Transform old clothing into a superhero costume. Use fabric paint to add your own superhero emblem, and wear a cape made from an old bedsheet. This sustainable superhero is ready to save the world from waste!
Other Ideas
Costume Swap Parties
Consider hosting or participating in a costume swap party with friends or in your community. Swapping costumes can be an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to find a new look for Halloween without spending money or adding to the fashion industry’s environmental footprint.
Embrace Face Paint
Face paint can be an eco-friendly alternative to masks or heavy makeup that might contain harmful chemicals. Look for non-toxic, water-based face paints that are gentle on your skin and easy to remove.
Waste-Free Trick-or-Treating
Trick-or-treating often involves collecting loads of candy in disposable packaging. Reduce waste by using a reusable bag or container to collect treats. Opt for candies with minimal packaging or wrapped in eco-friendly materials.
This Halloween, join the movement for more sustainable and eco-friendly costume choices. By reducing, reusing, and recycling materials, embracing DIY projects, and being mindful of the environmental impact of your costume, you can enjoy a spooktacular holiday while making a positive difference for the planet. Your Halloween costume can be a statement of creativity, style, and sustainability all at once. So, go ahead and create your eco-friendly Halloween costume that’s not only a treat for the eyes but also for the environment. Happy Halloween!
We would love to see your homemade, upcycled or reused outfits, share on Instagram and tag @recrea_ltd with hashtag #greenhalloween
Written by Heather Delaney, Founder of Recrea Ltd.
Autumn Style
September 2023
Autumn is well and truly here. As I write this, the wind and rain are howling outside, inside it is dark despite being the morning, I am wearing 3 layers of clothing, and I am wondering when I will succumb to the urge to turn on the heating.
With the change in seasons, especially at the start of autumn, it can be a good time to reset goals, mindset and of course swap your wardrobe over, pack away those summer clothes and dig out our cosy and warm pieces. The unusual heatwave we had at the beginning of September was of course lovely to enjoy the sun a bit longer, especially after the poor summer the UK had but, in a way, it personally really threw me and the kids. Back to school felt a bit odd, putting sun cream on and eating ice creams after school, not that they were complaining about more ice creams! I was secretly looking forward to the autumnal chills, wrapping up a bit more, the sunny but crisp autumnal day and so on. And of course, a change in style! The cooler weather of autumn is a great season to ease us into winter dressing but still getting the opportunity to enjoy a bit of midday sun, arms, and legs out but layered with stylish knitwear and jackets.
Autumn is a season of creativity, elongating some of your summer pieces such a summer dresses, tops and skirts can still be worn layered during this transitional period.
With the seasons changing, you may be saying ‘I’ve got nothing to wear’ but as an advocate of sustainable style, I will mention that it is always good to shop your own wardrobe first. Get creative and inspired. Have you fallen back in love with an item of clothing you once disliked, or could you upcycle clothing to give it a new lease of life? It is currently Second hand September a campaign run by Oxfam since 2019, to encourage people to “shop second hand, reduce waste and take a stance against climate change, and help create a fairer world – all while looking super fabulous” (Oxfam 2023). Even if you do not purchase anything, the start of a season is a great opportunity for a wardrobe cleanse, can you donate unworn items to charity, swap with friends or resell to earn a bit of extra cash? If you want to get involved on social media, Oxfam are running campaigns with the hashtags #secondhandseptember and #foundinoxfam on Instagram.
Here is a round up of the latest trends to suit all budgets, shoppers, and fashionistas to ensure you are looking on point for the forthcoming Autumn / Winter season. It is also great to see some classic styles and pieces that you may already have in your wardrobe than can be simply restyled into the new season.
Colour
Red is the colour of the season, there are shades to suit all skin tones. Other colours seen on the catwalks are black, navy, grey and a soft buttery pastel yellow.
Accessories:
Scarves – an autumn / winter staple and perfect for transitional weather. Scarves were seen on the catwalk is all styles, from the simple accessory to more elaborate scarf wraps and coats and jackets.
Bags – Big and small! The clutch bag again, a wardrobe staple, perfect for nights out. In a complete contrast huge, oversized totes and ‘chuck it all in’ bags – perfect for busy parents loaded with supplies and of course…snacks!
Tights – an obvious addition to an autumn wardrobe but the catwalks featured different patterns, colours, and fabrics (lace, sheer) a simpler and cost-effective way to try out new trends.
Belts – make a return to the trends, going larger in size, sitting on the waist rather than the hips to give the more pulled in looked featured in the hourglass trend.
In terms of overall trends, the following looks were spotted on the catwalks:
Quiet Luxury – an easy one to follow. Focus on style over fashion. Simple, elegant, and put-together looks. Focus on autumn staples such as tailored blazers, knitwear, and textures such as gathering, boucle, shearing, velvet, and teddy fleece. The trend has an androgynous feel to it with shapes being loose, baggy, and oversized and also accessories with ties.
The look can be worn both casual by mixing hoodies under blazers for a more relaxed vibe Or the look can be more elevated and dressed-up, perhaps for the return to the office, with two-piece suits either trouser or skirts, a nice development of the summer coord set featured this year. The look lends itself nicely to the wardrobe classics a white shirt and black coat, also spotted all over the catwalks.
Winter Florals – a key print this season featured florals on a darker ground for the season but also it is a great opportunity to make your summer dresses to last that bit longer. Update your summer styles by layering with t shirts and shirts, under jumpers and cardigans, and of course with tights and boots.
Rebel Punk – inspired by the late Vivienne Westwood, think tartan, corsets, leather, edgy styles, colour and pattern clashes.
Hourglass – tapping into the overall shape and silhouette as a look, think strong shoulders and hips. Even if this is not your natural body shape you can recreate this look with clever tailoring and structured clothing, belts, full skirts, peplum hems and pleats.
Lingerie – bring the hidden to the visible. Think sheer, lace and delicate fabrics. A nod to the 90s trends and slip dresses worn then by Kate Moss.
Metallics – anything with a shine or glitz goes. Satin, silks, sequins, and metallic leather are perfect for the party season. Yet why just save for the evening or the festive period, mix this look with more causal items for a glamorous day look and channel that dopamine dressing.
I think it is safe to say there is something for everyone this Autumn / Winter, whether it is a particular look, second hand or new. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy dressing up this season. You might brighten your day, mood or better still someone else’s.
Written by Heather Delaney, Founder of Recrea Ltd.
Sustainable Festival | Revamp, Reuse, and Rock the Vibe
July 2023
As festival season arrives, it is time to start planning those outfits. But before you rush to the shops and contribute to the cycle of fast fashion, you can explore a more sustainable and affordable approach to festival fashion. Remember, the most sustainable thing in your wardrobe is what is already in your wardrobe.
Rediscover Yours Wardrobe & Your Friends Wardrobes
Before hitting the shops, take a closer look at what you already own. Chances are, there are hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Why not make it into a fun social event and turn it into a mini clothes swap. Set the atmosphere vibe by putting on some music, have some food and drinks. Experiment with different combinations, mix and match outfits, you will be surprised by the fresh looks you can create together.
Buy Second-hand
Not only does buying second-hand add excitement and variety to your festival wardrobe, but it also promotes sustainability by extending the lifespan of clothing. It is often cheaper than buying new as well as gives the opportunity more unique outfits due to the nature of buying one-off pieces versus mass-marketed product from stores. It is a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Buying second-hand has come a long way from charity shops and boot sales. There are a number of resale platforms and auctions sites as well as independent retailers both online and instore that offer a carefully curated selection of pieces to suit all tastes, styles and budgets. These platforms offer a treasure trove of pre-loved and vintage items, perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind festival ensemble. By purchasing second-hand clothing, you're giving these pieces a new life while reducing demand for new production. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and discover gems that are guaranteed to stand out in the crowd. The nature of shopping this way, rekindles the thrill and pleasures of shopping that is sometimes lost in this current age. Shopping second-hand can therefore leave you feeling good on the inside for more than one reason and looking good on the outside!
Seek Inspiration & Embrace Iconic Festival-Chic
If you are stuck on what to choose, take inspiration from past festival-chic icons like Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and Alexa Chung. These style influencers have left a lasting impact on festival fashion. Look to their iconic looks from the 90s and early 2000s, as the 90s trend is making a strong comeback. From bohemian dresses to denim cut-offs, floppy hats, and statement accessories, you can recreate their effortless and timeless whilst adding your own personal stamp on it. The fact that the 90s and 00s fashions have hit the fashion history cycle you may even find some vintage gems from these eras that make your look even better.
One of the most incredible aspects of festivals is the vibrant community that comes together. Take inspiration from the artists performing and the unique styles of fellow festival-goers. Let the atmosphere and creativity around you inspire your fashion choices. Festivals are a melting pot of diverse fashion influences, so do not be afraid to experiment and infuse your own personality into your outfits. Embrace the spirit of celebration, self-expression, and individuality.
DIY and Upcycling
Unleash your creativity by embracing DIY and upcycling projects. Transform old band t-shirts into crop tops, distressed jeans into stylish shorts, or add unique embellishments to plain garments. Personalise your festival outfits with patches, embroidery, or fabric paint. By repurposing and upcycling items. If you are not the best sewer, you can use iron-on patches, fabric glue and iron-on hemming tape to get the same effect.
Wise Investments and Rotating Wardrobe
When selecting festival clothing items, choose wisely and opt for pieces that can be worn beyond the festival season. Look for versatile garments that can be styled differently for various occasions. If you're attending the festival as a group, consider sharing items on rotation with your friends. This way, you will all have access to a wider variety of clothing options without the need for individual purchases. Embrace the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone by trying new colours or styles, allowing your festival fashion to be a source of inspiration and self-expression.
Accessorise to Update and Elevate Outfits
Accessories play a crucial role in transforming and updating any outfit. They can breathe new life into old favourites and add a touch of personal style. Instead of splurging on a whole new outfit, invest in accessories that can be mixed and matched with different clothing items. Statement jewellery, hats, sunglasses, belts, scarves, and even funky socks can instantly elevate your look. These smaller investments can go a long way in extending the longevity of your wardrobe while adding flair to your festival ensembles.
Don't Take It Too Seriously, Cherish the Moments, Not Just the Outfits
While festival fashion is undoubtedly exciting, it's important not to stress about it too much. Remember, the primary reason you're attending a festival is to have fun, enjoy the music, and create unforgettable memories. Don't let the pressure of finding the perfect outfit overshadow the experience itself. Embrace the laid-back, carefree spirit of festivals and let your fashion choices reflect that. Choose comfort and practicality without compromising on style.
Keep in mind that the most cherished memories from a festival are often the incredible experiences, the people you meet, and the mesmerising performances you witness. When you look back on the festival, it is the emotions and connections that will stand out, rather than the specific garments you wore. So, while it is important to look and feel great, remember that the true essence of a festival lies in the joy and camaraderie it brings. Focus on investing your energy in creating wonderful memories rather than obsessing over your wardrobe.
Conclusion
Festival fashion can be both sustainable and stylish. By shopping your own wardrobe, hosting clothing swaps, exploring resale platforms, and drawing inspiration from past festival-chic icons, you can create memorable and eco-friendly outfits. Accessorizing with carefully chosen pieces allows you to update your look without breaking the bank and ensures the longevity of your wardrobe. However, it's important not to take festival fashion too seriously. Remember, the true essence of a festival lies in the experiences and connections you make. Prioritise those moments over stressing about your attire. Choose wisely, be creative, and let your festival fashion journey reflect your personal style and the vibrant energy of the festival itself. Embrace the joy and freedom of festival fashion while minimising your environmental impact and making unforgettable memories.
Written by Heather Delaney, Founder of Recrea Ltd.
Embracing Sustainable Fashion |
Inspiring Change and Building a Sustainable Future
June 2023
Sustainable fashion is not just a trend; it's a movement that encompasses conscious choices, ethical practices, and a commitment to the planet and future generations. In this blog post, we explore how individuals, regardless of their budget, can expand their knowledge and make sustainable fashion choices, drive change through education and lead by example to encourage the next generation to be future conscious consumers.
Expanding Knowledge and Making Sustainable Choices:
To embrace sustainable fashion, it's crucial to expand our knowledge and understand the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry and our choices and power as consumers. Sustainable fashion goes beyond just being ‘eco-friendly’ with our choices and behaviours. It also emphasises ethical production practices and fair trade. By supporting brands that prioritise sustainability and treat workers fairly, we can contribute to a fashion industry that aligns with our values. We as consumers need to take responsibility with the clothes and accessories we consume; whether that is from that decision making of: if we buy, where we buy from, how we look after them and what we do with them when we are finished, there is a cost and impact at every stage and it is not just about monetary value.
Embracing the concept of slow fashion and creating a capsule wardrobe allows us to make mindful choices. Quality over quantity becomes our mantra, as we select versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. This approach not only minimises waste but also encourages conscious consumption and long-lasting style.
Driving Change Through Education:
Education plays a vital role in building a sustainable future. By sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can inspire others to make conscious fashion choices. It's particularly important to educate younger generations, instilling in them an understanding of the environmental and social impact of their clothing choices. By teaching children about sustainable fashion, we empower them to become responsible consumers and change-makers.
Furthermore, driving change means leading by example. Through actions like recycling, repurposing, and sharing or swapping clothes, we demonstrate that second-hand fashion is not only cool but also carries sentimental value. Each item of clothing holds stories and memories that we can pass down or repurpose into new creations. By asking ourselves, "If this item could talk, what would it tell us about its life and experiences?" we unlock the sentimental meaning behind our clothes. What more can we add to it story?
We need to learn more about the fashion industry, its impacts on the environment and how we as consumers can do more. Organisations like Fashion Revolution, Good On You, UN Sustainable Development Goals Ellen MacArthur Foundation Centre for Sustainable Fashion Close the Loop are just a few resources that we can explore to learn more.
Embracing a Circular Fashion Economy:
A circular fashion economy is key to reducing waste and minimising the environmental impact of the fashion industry. By embracing this approach, we contribute to a more sustainable future. Supporting clothing recycling programs and exploring DIY projects to repurpose old garments into new creations are meaningful ways to participate in the circular fashion ecosystem. This shift toward recycling and repurposing extends the lifespan of clothing items and helps to build a more sustainable and circular economy.
Community and Collaboration:
Sustainable fashion is not a solitary endeavour; it thrives on community and collaboration. Clothing swaps, rental services, and local thrift stores are powerful platforms that enable us to access sustainable fashion options while reducing waste. By engaging in these community initiatives, we actively participate in building a fashion ecosystem that supports conscious consumption and contributes to a circular economy.
Conclusion:
Expanding our knowledge and learning about sustainable fashion choices, regardless of our budget, is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. By driving change through education, embracing the stories and sentimental value of second-hand fashion, and participating in a circular fashion economy, we can make a positive impact on the planet.
Together, we can embrace sustainable fashion, make conscious choices, and build a better future for the planet and future generations. Let's embark on this journey of transformation and create a fashion industry that is both stylish and sustainable.
Written by Heather Delaney, Founder of Recrea Ltd.
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