It’s getting dark at 3pm. The conversation about when to switch the heating on is officially being had and snow is on the horizon (according to the weather channel). Winter season is well and truly underway, and the students of Selly are crying- ‘What do I wear now!’

It’s likely your first impulse is to buy. It’s so easy to fill up your ASOS, Zara or, dare I say it, SHEIN baskets with their new winter must-haves. I’m here to tell you to STOP, read this article first. Before you make that ever so tempting purchase out of your student bank overdraft, consider the clothes you own first. Being more sustainable about your shopping choices is about embracing the clothes you own. So here are my tips on how to make the most out of your wardrobe, DIY included! It’s time to rediscover the clothes you forgot about lurking in the depths of your drawers.

Firstly, I recommend setting aside a designated wardrobe day. Take out everything. Grab those jeans that looked unique on the hanger, but when you tried them on, they weren’t so fabulous, and before you throw them away, rethink them. It may be that you need to locate your nearest tailor. This is easier than you might think, there are two located near New Street Station. Tailoring can be a really simple way to change up your wardrobe without buying new clothes. Why not try taking up some stitching? Sew-on patches and thread are a great addition to any outfit. If you can’t sew, iron on patches is the way to go. Layering is my latest obsession: layering cardigans over strappy tops, long-sleeves over shirts, jumpers over jumpers. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous with it. Recently, I was inspired to start re-wearing cardigans on backwards – yes backwards! Ta-da, the backless jumper is created. Style it with a super cute undershirt, and you have yourself an outfit that can be worn three days in a row, three different ways!

Try incorporating statement belts with your winter pieces. Maybe style your bandana in a new way. When it comes to changing up a look, accessories can be your best friend. I encourage every one of you to raid your jewellery boxes. Think of new ways you can style your jewellery with your outfit. When it comes to creating outfits, it’s the subtle changes that make all the difference.

It happens to us all that the urge to shop is much too tempting. Or you have worn your boots so much that there are holes in the soles – I speak from experience. When this does inevitably happen, choosing where you shop, and how you shop, is key. Being a considerate shopper, taking time over your buying habits is difficult to practice in our capitalist culture. Hit the charity shops! Harborne Highstreet, Kings heath and Bourneville are some of my favourite places to browse, and I have definitely found some staple pieces in these stores. Vinted and Depop need no introduction, but if you cannot find what you’re looking for on those second-hand apps, try Vestaire Collective for some Higher end vintage pieces, or Ebay for some low cost must haves.

Being a considerate shopper and taking time to control buying habits is difficult to practice in our capitalist culture. Next time you decide to shop for new clothes, set aside time to deliberate your purchases. Do you really need that new shirt? How much wear are you going to get out of that skirt? Will you be throwing those heels away in two weeks?

If you want to be inspired online, it’s all about following the people, and the trends, that make your heart sing. I am an avid believer that fashion is very different for everyone, that’s what makes it fashion! This Winter season let’s celebrate loving the clothes you wear, and wear, and wear!

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