In today's world, sustainability is more than just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. With the fashion industry being one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution, many people are looking for ways to shop more sustainably.
In my opinion the one key method to create a wardrobe you love and shop sustainably is colour analysis. Not only does it help you curate a wardrobe that looks great on you, but it also promotes sustainability by encouraging mindful purchasing.
When I first started out as a stylist in 2016 sustainability wasn't a mainstream topic and I owned no pre-loved items. I only got in to purchasing preloved through childrens clothes on facebook selling groups. I have never been a fan of charity shop shopping (apart from for books and jigsaws!), great of you are but it just never worked for me. So in the last few years I have loved the emergence of Vinted, and I often talk about it in my consultations. It's a great way to get rid of colours that aren't right for you, and add in some colour at a lower price point. As of today I usually have at least one Vinted item on most days and I would estimate a quarter of my wardrobe is preloved. I can shop with ease on Vinted and have very few mistake purchases because I totally understand my colouring, what works for my bodyshape and the brands that wotk for me.
Now, let's delve into how colour analysis can transform your shopping habits for the better.
Understanding Colour Analysis
Colour analysis is a method used to determine which colours best complement an individual’s natural features; their skin tone, eye colour, and hair colour.
The Main Benefits of Colour Analysis
Enhanced Personal Style: Knowing your best colours helps you choose clothes that make you look vibrant and healthy.
Increased Confidence: Wearing colours that suit you can boost your confidence and make you feel more comfortable in your own skin.
Efficient Wardrobe: With a clear colour palette, you can build a cohesive wardrobe where everything works together, reducing the need for excess.
Colour Analysis and Sustainable Shopping
1. Reduces Impulse Buys
One of the main benefits of colour analysis is that it helps reduce impulse buys. When you know which colours suit you, you’re less likely to be swayed by trendy pieces that don’t actually look good on you. This mindfulness leads to fewer, but better, purchases, and less clutter in your wardrobe.
2. Promotes Quality over Quantity
With colour analysis, you become more intentional about your purchases. Instead of buying multiple items that only get worn once or twice, you invest in high-quality pieces that fit well into your colour palette and are worn repeatedly. This shift from quantity to quality is a key component of sustainable fashion.
3. Encourages Longevity in Wardrobe
A well-curated wardrobe based on colour analysis ensures that your clothes remain timeless. Classic, well-chosen pieces in your best colours are less likely to go out of style and can be worn year after year. This longevity is crucial in combating the fast fashion cycle, where clothes are often discarded after a single season.
4. Facilitates Ethical Choices
When you buy fewer clothes, you can afford to invest in items from ethical brands that prioritize sustainable practices. These brands often use eco-friendly materials and fair labor practices, aligning with the principles of sustainability.
5. Reduces Waste
By focusing on colours that suit you, you reduce the likelihood of buying clothes that you never wear and eventually discard. This conscious approach to shopping reduces textile waste, which is a significant environmental issue.
Building a Sustainable Wardrobe
Step 1: Declutter
Start by decluttering your wardrobe. Remove items that don’t fit well, are in poor condition, or aren’t in your colour palette. Donate or recycle these items responsibly.
Step 2: Identify Gaps
Identify any gaps in your wardrobe. Make a list of essential pieces you need to complete your collection. Focus on quality items in your best colours that can be mixed and matched.
Step 3: Shop Mindfully
When shopping, refer to your colour palette. Choose pieces that align with it and consider their versatility and longevity. Opt for timeless styles over fleeting trends.
Step 4: Care for Your Clothes
Sustainable shopping also involves caring for your clothes to extend their lifespan. Follow care instructions, repair when necessary, and store items properly to maintain their condition.
Conclusion
Colour analysis is a powerful tool for anyone looking to shop more sustainably. By understanding which colours suit you best, you can make mindful purchasing decisions that contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry. This approach not only benefits the environment but also helps you develop a cohesive, stylish, and long-lasting wardrobe. Embrace colour analysis as a step towards a more sustainable and satisfying way of shopping.
Thank you for reading, please comment below with your tips if you shop with sustainability in mind .....
My first vinted tip is to use it to test out one of your more 'scary' colours; something you've never worn, a brighter than usual shade...buy a scarf of simple T pre loved to try it out without the cost commitment of a new item.