The importance of sustainability is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore in the world of fashion. This has given rise to the trend of ‘upcycling’, namely transforming old clothing into unique pieces, as the conversation around sustaining the planet becomes more present in our everyday lives. Depop has played a key role in this. In providing a platform for smaller, independent designers to display their work, it has been a catalyst for a wave of buying second hand. Furthermore, not only has the app succeeded to promote slow fashion but in recent months it has also been the starting point for many trends.

Though Depop is not perfect in the way it functions, recently facing criticism as it moves away from its affordable origins, it is still a platform which encourages creativity, be this through handmade pieces or curation, and which has helped to normalize buying fashion sustainably. Whilst maintaining the entirety of your wardrobe through Depop purchases is not realistic for most, buying from sellers such as these when possible is not only helping to support small businesses but also to invest in the future of the planet. Listed are a selection of independent sellers on Depop to inspire you and your wardrobe.

Vintage and Reworked:

@ringers- curating a selection of designers/vintage/stylish pieces.

@kitsch_clothing – creates customisable sweater vests using a collection of old recycled fabrics.

@offkut – using deadstock fabrics to create cute and unique mesh and patterned tops.

@nufinwstd – transforms waste materials into a mixture of patchwork/tie-dye tops, trousers, dresses and masks using only natural dyes.

@gembabies- features a mixture of handpicked clothing as well as handmade reworked patchwork crop tops.

@mollyohals – handmade knitwear which is bleach and dyed to create unique tie-dyed patterns.

@tommannering – reworking vintage jeans with unique embroidery which are completely customisable.

Funky Accessories:

@toutdelafruit – features a jewellery collection which is both handmade and created in small batches to reduce waste.

@gilberrt – upcycles old tablecloths in totes bags and scrunchies.

@princessmuffy – creates unique and colourful hand knitted bags which can be customized.

@sparerib_ – collections feature a selection of handmade bags made from recycled materials.

@erin_hornsby – creates a selection of face masks using multiple types of fabric.

Liked this article? Check out more on sustainable fashion:

Buying Clothes Ethically: The Lost Stock Initiative

How To: Vintage Kilo Sale

Zero Waste, Zero Effort: Small Lifestyle Changes to Make A Big Impact