Fashion is undergoing a revolution, with slow-fashion and environmentally-friendly consumption patterns becoming common ways to be good to yourself and good to the planet. Choosing ethical brands and selling or hiring clothes has become an essential part of the fashion landscape. The second-hand phenomenon has made its mark with fashionistas, who now proudly display their mixed new and second-hand looks. But for some people, buying trendy clothes at second-hand clothes shops, dressing rooms and resale sites means learning or relearning their clothes care rituals. Making second-hand clothes as good as new or extending their life is so... fashionable!
So if you're still on the fence, let us give you 5 key reasons to look after your clothes...
To spend your budget on updating your wardrobe
After all, if you avoid damaging your favourite items, you'll wash them less. And washing less means lower electricity, water and laundry bills.... So stop wasting time and money. Take simple steps to stay on budget and still treat yourself.
For smart shopping!
The aim is to keep allowing yourself to indulge in beautiful pieces. You don't need to know all fabric types off by heart, but it's easy to find out about combinations of materials and how to wash them. Just read the labels - most of the information is there. And if you don't have the patience to wash your wool by hand in cold water, choose another fabric. This way, you’ll be able to reduce waste.
To get yourself some good deals
Yes, reselling a garment or accessory in very good or slightly damaged condition allows you to resell it more quickly and at a better price. Put yourself in the shoes of the second-hand buyer: you wouldn't buy a garment that was misshapen or had a defect. By taking up a few simple habits on a daily basis, you can greatly increase the lifespan of your clothes. Starting, for example, by no longer crumpling them into a ball in the dressing room, and by using a professional steamer rather than ironing. This will prevent the fibres from being crushed and will respect the fabric for longer. Some more simple tips: turn woollens and embroidered clothes inside out before putting them away, dry your wool items flat...
To give your style and lifestyle a boost
If you know how to wash fragile fabrics such as silk, cashmere, embroidery and satin, you can treat yourself to more intricate pieces, with better cuts and more details, without fear of damaging them: so you’ll be able to really indulge yourself without worry.
And finally... Because it boosts your self-confidence!
In today's fast-paced world, where more and more tasks are dedicated to time saving, and where appearances are increasingly important, there's nothing more rewarding than learning to rediscover the simple, environmentally-friendly gestures of the older generations: “do things yourself". Sewing on a button, updating a garment, shining your shoes, smoothing your creases... they all are useful, simple and creative. For all these reasons and more, the "I take care of my clothes" trend is here to stay. Learn more in our next article...