Everywhere you look lately we're being told just how bad single-use tampons and sanitary pads are for our environment. With the average woman using an estimate of 16,000 disposable pads or tampons in their lifetime, more and more of us are turning to sustainable alternatives. Especially as they can take over 500 years to decompose too!

Despite advice from water companies and manufacturers, 1.5 billion are flushed away in the UK every year. As well as contributing to 'fatbergs' in our sewers, many end up in the sea and on our beaches. In fact, single-use period products are the fifth most common waste product washed up on our shores. When I found out that most pads from mainstream brands are made from up to 90% plastic, I decided to make a change.

I was very dubious and scared about making the switch at first. While I wanted to find a more eco-friendly method, I had SO many reservations and uncertainties. Will they be as effective? Will they be as convenient and discreet? Will it be more effort? Will it be more expensive? But as I researched into the options, all these concerns quickly went away. So here's how I embraced the plastic free period!

Just a warning! Things may get a little TMI for some people, but we're talking about periods here guys...

To really make an effective and lasting sustainable switch, I think you need to start off by asking yourself a series of personal questions. We're all different - and that means our periods are too.  What works for me, may not work for you, and vice versa. So it's important to look into what you're currently using in terms of sanitary products. Why do you use what you use? What do you like and dislike about it?

Personally, I've never been a tampon kind of girl. Since the age of 13, I've always used sanitary pads. I find them more comfortable and I like that I can easily see when I need to change/switch out a pad. Luckily throughout my life, my periods have mostly been fairly light. But I know pads couldn't even be an option for some people who aren't as fortunate!  So this is where your personal preferences and requirements come in to play. 

Once you've decided on your preferred method, it's time to start researching plastic-free alternatives. While I focussed most of my attention on researching options for sanitary pads, I also looked at other options available just in case! Here, I stumbled across products like the ever popular Mooncup. 

I think it's important to do as much research and reading as you can before making your purchase. Look at how to use the product, the pros and cons, the maintenance and if there are any ongoing costs.  Think of different real-life scenarios and see if this method fits into your lifestyle. Things you could ask are ... Is this portable? Could I use this in a public-bathroom? Could I travel with this item? How would I clean this? Make sure you read reviews too! Once you feel confident in your choice, then it's time to commit and start your plastic-free journey!

Once I made the switch to reusable sanitary pads,  I've never looked back, and honestly I wish I had done it sooner. I purchased two different packs of sanitary towels. While my periods tend to be fairly light, they also tend to be long (lasting around 7 days) so I wanted to make sure I had enough pads to make sure my entire period was covered.  You could even use these in companion with your reusable menstrual cup too.

I wanted to find sanitary towels with wings, to give me extra protection and avoid any embarrassing leaks or spills. I ended up purchasing these Bamboo Sanitary Pads by BeEcoWise and these Reusable Menstrual Pads by Heart Felt.  These sanitary pads come with a bamboo charcoal layer, which is super absorbent, hypoallergenic and naturally neutralises odours. The dark colour of the bamboo charcoal fabric is also forgiving of stains, giving you one less thing you have to worry about.  

These pads have snap buttons to fasten the pads around your underwear, keeping everything in place. They also fold into a rectangle, allowing for discreet carrying wherever you may be. Both sets come with a handy case to store them in, which is helpful when you're at home or when you're out and about.  

A huge plus point when switching to reusable menstrual pads, is that you can actually save hundreds of pounds! Within a couple of months these had already paid for themselves, and I no longer need to purchase disposable panty liners which will ultimately end up in landfill after a single use.  Typically, a woman uses around 21 disposable sanitary pads or tampons every month! Over a lifetime that is a HUGE saving by simply investing in reusable menstrual pads. This money-saving bonus is probably true of pretty much all the plastic-free options out there too.

Another thing I like about the reusable versions, is just how super soft they are. The designs can often be really cute and pretty too. I know this seems slightly superficial, but these small things are still improvements on the plain and boring single-use versions. Now that they're becoming more popular, you can find some really lovely designs and even hand-made ones, and these simple pleasures can add a small touch of luxury to your period. Us girls need all the little perks we can get!

If I would have to think of any negatives for complete transparency, I would say that sometimes these reusable pads have a tendency to slip. This may depend on specific ones you buy and your fabric/fastenings/underwear. They're completely fine 95% of the time, but there have been some instances where they've slipped out of place more than I would have liked. This potentially might be where period pants have the advantage, especially if this becomes an issue for you too. I've yet to try these out - but it might be something I look into when these need replacing.

It goes without saying that it's very important to clean your reusable sanitary towels regularly. This is probably the biggest change when making the switch from single-use pads. But it's actually really simple once you know what to do!

All reusable pads are different, so it's worth looking at the washing and care instructions once you've purchased.  Some will be machine washable and others will be hand wash only.

I like to soak my pads for 5-10 minutes in cold water with a few drops of pure tea tree oil, before putting them on a short 30º machine-wash. Tea tree oil has anti-bacterial properties, and it also helps to eliminate odours too.  Once washed, just hang them to dry as you would your normal laundry. 

So it's that time of month, and you're ready to put your new plastic-free product/s to the test! 

First and foremost, remember to be kind to yourself. Any kind of change is hard, and periods can already be difficult and inconvenient! So remember to be gentle with yourself in this transitionary period (no pun intended!) If you have a few snags or things that didn't work as you had thought, be patient and try again. Maybe look at some FAQs or forums and see if there are anymore tips and tricks from those who are already using the same products. But if you're still struggling after a few months, it's probably best to look into other options. 

There will be things that are a little different to your usual routine at first, but it's often surprising how quickly you can get used to a new method, especially once you put your mind to it. 

If you're wanting to embrace the plastic-free period, I hope this guide has been helpful to you! Whatever method you choose, remember there's no right or wrong way, and you can always try out an alternative until you find what works best for you. 

Unless indicated, these products were not gifted and this is not a sponsored post. I'm just putting out my genuine love for these brands and products. All stats and prices correct as of Dec 2019.

Single-use tampons and sanitary pads are a disaster for the environment, and more and more of us are turning to more sustainable alternatives. Want to know how to make the switch? Here's how to embraced the plastic free period and reusable sanitary pads.

Plastic Free Periods + Reusable Sanitary Pads

We all have good intentions, but when you're struggling for gift ideas it can be so easy to buy something in a rush or just for the sake of it. As a result, most of these items sadly end up unused, donated or in landfill. Over the years, I've learnt that the most sustainable thing we can do is gift someone an experience, your time, or a donation to charity. These all make amazingly thoughtful gifts with minimal impact to our planet. 

However, we all know how lovely it is to have something to unwrap on Christmas day. No matter how big or small. We often want to treat our loved ones to something they can pamper themselves with, or something they really need. So this year, I've decided to pull together a shortlist of items that you can give without feeling too guilty. Hopefully these items, are things your recipient will actually use (or reuse) time and time again. Which, of course, is at the heart of sustainability.

I also think it's important to support small, local or independent businesses where we can. This reduces shipping emissions, but also means you're supporting the local economy too All of the items on this short-list aim to represent some of the amazing independent brands and businesses out there.

Before we get to the gift-guide itself, I always think it's wise to ask yourself a series of questions before purchasing anything. These could be:

Can they reuse, recycle or up-cycle this item?

If the answer is yes to any of the above, it's probably a safe choice!

Am I just buying this for the sake of it?

If the answer is yes to any of the above, you probably shouldn't buy it!

Now we've established some shopping guidelines, you can start to think about what to purchase. So without further ado, here's my independent and sustainable gift-guide for anyone wanting to be more eco-conscious this Christmas!

I always think candles are a no-brainer when it comes to gifts. Everyone loves a good candle. Right?!  I've absolutely fallen in love with Self Care Co. candles this year. All of their products are made using natural soy-wax and are blended with a mix of essential oils. They are also entirely vegan + eco friendly. The candles are packaged in beautiful glass containers with lids, so these can easily be up-cycled and reused long after your candle has finished. Self Care Co even have their own recycle scheme too, and encourage you to send the container back to re-fill.

Each one is individually crafted with gorgeous essential oils, to help relieve stress and anxiety. What I love about these (and candles in general) is that you're not just giving the gift of the candle itself, but in something so much more. Candles can often inspire loved ones to enjoy some much-needed self-care or simply to take some time out for themselves.

Which is why this particular brand is so great! Whether you want to treat someone to the ultimate hygge-gift or simply enhance their self-care routine, Self Care Co. have you covered.

Reusable tote bags can also be a great gift for those wanting to reduce their use of single-use plastic. Plastic bags are by far some of the biggest contributors to the growing plastic problem. Tote bags are a great eco-friendly alternative and can be used time and time again.  Booming in popularity, there are now so many tote bags and designs to choose from. This means you can buy a design to fit the person you're buying for, making it thoughtful and personal too.

This year, I will be gifting these ocean-themed tote bags from ecovibe. These are made from 100% willow cotton with a beautiful quote from Ryunosuke Satoro: “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.”

5% of profits from the sale of these tote bags go to ocean cleaning charities too!

Tote bags can double-up to wrap your presents as well! It's a gift + gift-wrap rolled into one! Either use it as the gift-bag itself, or wrap a present inside and tie together with string.  Perfect!

I have been a huge fan of Bird & Blend Tea Co for many years now - and not just for their huge range of delicious + innovative teas! From day one, Bird & Blend have made sure their teabags are 100% plastic-free & biodegradable too. So you can pop the kettle on guilt-free! Their luxury pyramid-shaped teabags contain only whole leaf teas & high quality ingredients.

This Dreamer's Gift Cube would make a perfect Christmas gift for the tea lovers in your life. Containing 12 individually wrapped tea bags, in 6 different sleepy-time teas, it will help them chill out in no time!

Item kindly gifted by Bird & Blend Tea Co.

Another independent brand I've loved for years, and local to my home city of Norwich, is Lisa Angel.

Lisa Angel produce the most stunning jewellery and homeware. They put quality-first and everything is always so well-made, meaning your recipient will treasure their goodies well past December! Their friendly customer service is second-to-none and many of their pieces can be personalised for that extra-special touch.

When picking jewellery or homeware, I always think it's best to pick timeless pieces. This ensures the item will be cherished for life, rather than worn a couple of times and discarded. Lisa Angel have so many unique and bespoke pieces, you can easily find something for almost anyone!

So there we have it! My Independent + Sustainable Christmas Gift Guide with items people will actually use! I hope you've found this short-list helpful, but if you're in need of some more ideas, please check out my blog on Sustainable Christmas Stocking Gifts.

And remember, the most sustainable gift you can give this Christmas is your time and company, followed by an experience or a charitable donation that means something to them. But if you wanted that little extra-something - I hope this list has given you some eco-friendly options to explore! 

Nobody is perfect, but the fact you're trying to shop more mindfully this Christmas is amazing! Keep on doing what you're doing, ask yourself that series of questions before purchasing, and try to shop locally + independently where you can.

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and an incredible 2020! ♥️

Want to give you loved ones more sustainable gifts this Christmas? Then take a look at my eco-friendly, independent gift guide, filled with ideas for things they will actually use or cherish for years to come!

Independent + Sustainable Christmas Gift Guide

Want to buy more sustainable stocking fillers this Christmas, but haven't a clue where to start? Fear not! I've created this handy gift guide with some of my favourite eco-friendly gift ideas to get you started! I've tried to keep these as practical as possible, so you can feel confident they will be used or loved for many years to come.

Have a tea or coffee lover in your life? Then no sustainable stocking would be complete without a KeepCup! Well, unless they already have one of course. Try looking for BPA-free plastic if you can, or better yet, spend a few extra pennies on one made from glass.  Keep cups can reduce waste and plastic consumption massively, so they're a no brainer when it comes to the environment. 

A gift for anyone who drinks water or liquids - which is everyone right?!  A reusable water bottle is a great all-rounder and can be used on a daily basis. Single-use water bottles are currently one of the biggest contributors to the plastic-waste problem, so this would make a welcomed gift for anyone wanting to reduce their impact. This one is from Chilly's.

These BeeBee food-wraps are an amazing alternative to clingfilm, and keep food fresh without waste! Simply wash them lightly with cold water after using and reuse! Perfect for the foodie in your life. 

You can find some really cute cutlery sets for eating-out on the go (without the plastic!) These ones are made of bamboo and come in a little fabric case, but you can also find metal version if you want something even more durable. 

Designed in Sweden, these eco-friendly and socially responsible toothbrushes from HumbleBrush are made from bamboo.  We all need to clean our teeth twice a day, so you can be sure this gift will get plenty of use! The Humble Smile Foundation also manages oral health outreach projects, to help keep smiles on the faces of kids in the most vulnerable areas around the world.

I made the switch to a bamboo safety razor this year, and I've not looked back! Treat the man or woman in your life to this beautiful razor, and get them to ditch their plastic disposable ones!  As long as the handle is well maintained (be sure to clean + dry after use) all they'll need to do is switch out the metal blades as they get blunt.  Overtime it's a big money saver, so it really is the gift that keeps on giving! 

Another sustainable swap that's changed my life this year (or my haircare at least!) I recently purchased this Go Green Detangler designed specifically for brushing wet hair. I've noticed far less breakage and the brush just glides through with ease! WetBrush reports over 45% less damage and 56% less effort compared to a standard hairbrush, and this eco-version has a handle that's made from an all-natural biodegradable plant starch, that will naturally break down in landfill within 5 years. I definitely think it would make a great practical gift for any eco-friendly Christmas stocking!

A solid investment for anyone becoming more conscious about the environment. Conventional cotton pads and make-up wipes are a disaster for our planet. Cotton is grown with massive use of pesticides, fertilisers and water. Wet wipes contain plastic. PLASTIC!? So moving away from these single-use items can be a really positive and sustainable step. 

These ones are from Bambaw and would make a lovely gift set. They're super soft and come with a handy laundry bag to wash them all together. You can find out more about them in my earlier review here. 

Everyone loves a pampering! It's just a shame that so many cosmetics products come in plastic bottles. But there are some really amazing brands out there, doing the best to reduce their waste and their impact. For example, brands like Neal's Yard create some gorgeous organic products and gift-sets. Neal's Yard mostly use glass bottles and jars, which means your recipient can upcycle them, and use them time and time again afterwards! They've also partnered directly with TerraCycle, to enable you to take empty products from any brand and recycle them responsibly. Visit here to find out more.

From plastic-free to packaging-free! Go one better by buying products free from packaging. Lush are particularly good for this. They have a huge range of bath bombs, shampoo bars and deodorants - all available to buy package-free. 

You can even purchase a handy tin  or two to store them all in. These will keep the products fresh and acts as a reusable storage container for them. Everything is cruelty-free too!

With products this beautiful and cute - why not give someone the gift of self-care this Christmas?

Say no to plastic bottles with handcrafted solid shampoos, conditioners, face & body bars. These Ethique beauty bars are full of natural goodness. They're also vegan + cruelty free. Ethique are committed to being zero-waste and have prevented over 6 million plastic bottles from being made and disposed of so far. A pretty perfect-sized stocking filler too - if I do say so myself!

And there we have it! I hope you've found this gift-guide useful and you've at least come away with one or two sustainable gift ideas. Are you creating an eco-friendly Christmas stocking this year? I'd love to hear what you're planning on putting in yours! Please feel free to let me know in the comments below. 

I would just like to point out that these products were not gifted and this is not a sponsored post. Just putting out my genuine love for these brands and products. All stats and prices correct as of Dec 2019.

Want to create a more sustainable Christmas stocking this year? Here are my favourite gift ideas to get you started!

Sustainable Christmas Stocking Fillers - Gift Ideas

Today I thought I would bring you some of my natural make-up favourites! Over the last couple of years, I've slowly been trying to switch out my conventional make-up products to something that's kinder to my skin and the planet.

I wanted to ditch dodgy chemicals and those ingredients that you're not sure what they're made of or even where they come from, in favour of something more plant-based or organic. I also wanted to make sure the make-up I was using was vegan and cruelty free if possible.  In this day and age, we really do not need to be harming animals for our beauty, and it should not be a normalised 'price we have to pay' in the cosmetics industry. 

Now I know these kinds of products can often be a little, if not a lot, more expensive than their conventional counter-parts. So I realise I'm in a position of privilege where I can afford them. I want to reiterate, that if you can only afford drug-store mascaras or own-brand lip balm - that's totally ok. I certainly dream of the day when natural, cruelty-free beauty becomes more affordable and accessible for all . But until then, you do you! I just wanted to highlight the products I've been loving lately (and hopefully show you ones at a fairly affordable price-point too!)

One good tip, if you want to switch over to these kinds of products, but are intimidated by the cost and investment, is to switch out your products bit by bit. You can do this slowly, rather than refresh your entire make-up bag all in one go. Just wait until you run out of a product and then switch them out one by one. This spreads out the cost, and hopefully won't be too much of a hit to your bank balance. This is the way I have made the change to something greener, and although it's taken me years, it's most certainly been rewarding and satisfying over time.

Plant-based products are definitely booming. The industry is innovating like never before, and new brands are emerging all the time, and they're truly doing amazing things. So while a few years ago, it might have felt like you would need to compromise when going au naturel - I honestly feel like you don't have to anymore. To me, the products I've included in this post are just as good (if not better) than the drug-store equivalent. They also have so many added benefits!

One brand I have discovered on this journey is Tropics. Finding their skin-care and make-up range was like striking gold! Enriched with powerful, natural botanicals, their range of freshly made makeup glides on like a dream. They've truly harnessed the latest in green beauty innovation to bring a host of fun and effective products.

I actually discovered Tropics by chance, after one of my friends hosted a Tropics pamper party at her home. This is an amazing way to test out the products and see what works for you, and it's something I would definitely recommend if you're scared to commit to something without trying it out first. 

I've been absolutely loving their skincare range and many of these products have integrated into my skincare routine (blog post on that coming soon!) In terms of make-up, I adore the Beauty Booster Sheer Foundation.  This foundations gives me a gorgeous dewy glow. The coverage is quite light however, so it depends on the kind of finish you need and like. Even though the coverage is sheer and weightless, it still lasts all day long! Especially when topped with the Make it Matte Setting Powder.  As we all know, SPF is also very important when it comes to skin products, and this foundation has broad spectrum sun protection and protects against HEV artificial light damage, so you can feel confidently skin-safe throughout the day.

Possibly one of my favourite discoveries was the customisable Colour Palette. Here you can build your own palette and fill it with all your favourite staple products. I love this idea, because it cuts down on plastic waste and means you can switch up your palette based on your changing needs and colour preferences. Simply choose your desired tray sizes, and fill up as required. The trays are magnetic and slot into the palette with ease. Once empty - keep your tray and refill it all over again. Such a great zero-waste incentive! If you complete a Colour Palette within the same purchase - you receive your case and trays (worth £16) for free! Another great money-saving tip there!

If you're interested, I filled my tray with the following products...

Another brand I've been loving over the years is Benecos. Their brand message is "Certified natural makeup that’s hip yet affordable!" - and I can certainly vouch for that. Benecos is Germany’s fastest growing natural cosmetic brand, and their pure plant + mineral-based products have won multiple awards. All Benecos items are GMO, soy, gluten AND cruelty-free!

Personally, I've been loving the Natural Blush Powder (in Mallow Rose) and the Natural Liquid Eyeliner (in Black). Many of the ingredients are certified organic, and are packed with nourishing and soothing properties. The silky smooth paraben and lead-free liquid eyeliner glides on effortlessly, for a dramatic look. Made with organic plant oils and pure minerals, it's gentle on sensitive skin. It's also long lasting and non-caking. The lightweight blush has such a beautiful pigment and delicate shimmer, and blends so well. Besides, nothing gives you that I-live-on-kale-and-yoga look quite like blush powder.

Poppy Austin has also become a firm favourite. I'm very particular about my mascara, and this argan oil mascara is by far the best natural-based one i've tried. Made in small batches to preserve the quality and integrity of every single drop, their nutrient-rich products are sold as close to their natural state as possible. Cold pressed to perfection, with absolutely nothing added or taken away from the raw organic ingredients.

They are also committed to responsible, sustainable production. Delivering fair-trade cosmetics while minimising their environmental impact, and opposing all forms of animal testing. They even donate a % of every bottle sold to the Moroccan women's co-operatives.

This award-winning mascara, lengthens my eyelashes beautifully. They feel luxuriously long, and like i'm living in my own personal snap-chat filter. The all-in-one volumising and lengthening formula is gentle, vegan, cruelty-free and 100% natural.  It's also smudge, smear and flake resistant, easily providing 24-hour coverage.

Lavera is another great affordable brand to try. For over 25 years, Lavera has been committed to creating innovative all-natural cosmetics – from their pioneering Sunless Tanner to award-winning natural makeup, their products are designed to suit even the most sensitive skin. Only natural and effective plant-based ingredients and pure minerals are used, certified organic and 100% free from harmful chemicals. All cosmetics are gluten-free and many are certified vegan.

At the moment I've been adoring this Eyebrow Styling Gel. This is a clear brow gel that can also be used on eyelashes. It helps tame and style my brows, holding them in place without them feeling stiff or sticky. I feel like this product really finishes and polishes off my look.

The mascara-like wand on one side with brush on the other makes application easy, and the natural formula is a treat for your brows and lashes.  Not only does it keep my brows and lashes in place, but it conditions and strengthens too. Including shea butter and coconut oil to hydrate and strengthen lashes, and organic sea buckthorn, liquorice root, and rose flower extract to provide nourishing protection. It's also been formulated for those with sensitive and allergy-prone eyes and skin.

Now I couldn't write a blog post about natural beauty, without including Burt's Bees. They have an incredible brand story, and I've been a lover of their products for many years. Even before all of my green-beauty swaps. I feel they are a great entry-level brand, as their products are easily accessible in stores like Holland & Barrett, and I also find the products are very reasonably priced. (Especially when they're on offer, you can easily grab yourself a bargain!)

Honestly, I'm a huge fan of all Burt's Bees products, but I've been particularly loving the Matte Lip Crayons lately. Available in 6 full-coverage shades, the lightweight and creamy formula is infused with Shea Butter, Kendi Oil, and Jojoba Oil. Made with 100% natural ingredients, it's comfortable and moisturising. Suitable for everyday wear, they can last for up to 8 hours!

Growing up, I was never without my trusty Burt's Bees Lip Balm either. It's tempting to go absolutely nuts with these, as they stock nearly every flavour imaginable, including tinted varieties too! My go-to flavour is this beeswax lip-balm infused with Peppermint + Vitamin E. Again,  a 100% natural formula with a refreshing, tingly flavour. It leaves my lips feel super hydrated after using. 

And there you have it! I hope this has given you an insight into green-beauty and some of the skin-loving benefits you might find. Hopefully I've also offered some tips on how to make the switch as frictionless as possible. For me, it's been a journey of trial and error. It's a very personal process too; what works for me might not work for you and vice versa. So please take your time and consider each swap, asking yourself how it will compliment your skin, your body and your lifestyle. 

I've spent a lot of time researching organic/natural brands and ingredients, and trialling products to find ones that perform just as well as my trusty old products. I must confess, sometimes it has been tricky, but if you're willing to experiment and do some research, you will fill up that make-up bag in no time! 

I would just like to point out that these products were not gifted and this is not a sponsored ad. Just putting out my genuine love for these brands and products. All stats and prices correct as of Oct 2019.

Today I thought I would bring you some of my natural make-up favourites! Over the last couple of years, I've slowly been trying to switch out my conventional make-up products to something that's kinder to my skin and the planet. I wanted to ditch dodgy chemicals and those ingredients that you're not sure what they're made of or even where they come from, in favour of something more plant-based or organic.

Switching to Natural Make-Up - Organic + Plant-Based Favourites

Does anyone else think that autumn feels like the perfect time to regroup, get organised and declutter? Move over spring, there’s a new clear-out season in town!

I for one, have enjoyed spending some time rethinking my possessions and the things I own this season. Particularly my wardrobe! While I’ve really kick-started things in autumn, I’ve spent the last year researching the best ways to keep a sustainable, minimal wardrobe. It’s become so fascinating to me, and something I’ve put a lot of time and energy into, because the rewards have most certainly been worth it.

Part of my research has been around capsule wardrobes, and why they're good for decluttering your closet space, your mind + the environment. And this is the method I decided to adopt. So what actually is a capsule wardrobe? Let me try and break it down!

While there tends to be many different approaches to a capsule wardrobe, the basics are as follows…

A capsule wardrobe is a term coined by Susie Faux in the 1970s due to her frustration with the lack of well-made clothing. According to Faux, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of a few essential items of clothing that don't go out of fashion, such as skirts, trousers, and coats, which can then be augmented with seasonal pieces. Most of these items are interchangeable and can be worn together with ease. This is usually achieved by buying what are considered to be "key" or "staple" items in coordinating colours.

Caroline Rector of Unfancy, describes the concept this way: 

[A capsule wardrobe is] a practice of editing your wardrobe down to your favourite clothes (clothes that fit your lifestyle + body right now), remixing them regularly, and shopping less often and more intentionally.

Over decades our consumerist culture and fast fashion have encouraged us to buy lots and buy often. For many fashion retailers, four seasons in a year turned into 52 seasons, giving us new lines of clothing every week (if not every day.) The result is a stuffed wardrobe full of clothes that we very well may never wear, and landfills piled with clothes that we longer want. Sustainable living, fashion, and beauty all come down to intentional consumption and decision making. This inspires us to truly value the clothes and things we buy, and discourages us from contributing to this throwaway, high-turnover culture.

So how do you start a capsule wardrobe? Let’s get straight down to it.

It all starts with cleaning out your closet. I’ve learned that the best way to do this (thanks, Marie Kondo) is to completely empty your wardrobe first. I know, it sounds like a tonne of work. But trust me on this one, it works. Take absolutely everything out of your closet and lay it out on your bed. It may look like a scary mountain of clothes, but we're going to navigate and climb up this messy mass together. 

Now here’s the important part. It’s time to ask yourself the big questions. Pick up each item and ask yourself a series of questions. Have I worn this in the last month? Is the item in good condition? Would I buy this again if I saw it in the store now? Does it spark joy? (Sorry, I just had KonMari it.)

Now sort each item into one of these four piles:

LOVE. It fits. You wear it all the time. You feel comfortable and confident wearing it. Amazing! Back in the wardrobe it goes!

MAYBE. This is for items that don’t fit quite right, the colour is a little off, have sentimental value, you can’t put your finger on it but you just don’t wear it, or you’re keeping it because you paid a lot for it but you don’t wear it. Put all this stuff in a box and store it somewhere out of sight. You can always go get stuff out of it, but you probably won’t. If it’s still in the box at the end of your season, it’s time to say goodbye to it.

NOPE. Self-explanatory. If it’s in good condition, donate, swap with a friend, or sell it. I’ve recently discovered Depop for this! If it’s not in good condition, then you can recycle the item to prevent it going to landfill. Many supermarkets or local councils have recycling schemes/bins, so be sure to check those out.

SEASONAL. Denim shorts in winter? Wool coat in summer? You probably don’t need it handy. But there’s no need to get rid of a staple like that. If it’s not in season, but you love it, store it away until the appropriate season rolls around.

Assess what’s left in your closet. Place the clothes in your LOVE pile, back into your wardrobe. From here it’s easy to start identifying your true style. It should be practically screaming at you by now anyway. 

From here, add in the appropriate SEASONAL items you’ve kept, and store away the out-of-season clothes you still love.

From this point, I would suggest going on a shopping hiatus for however long you like—especially if your wardrobe is less than perfect (and trust me, it will be). Mine is not even close to being how I want it, but I’m enjoying the journey. Living with what you have for a little while will teach you so much about your style and what you really need.

Once you've finished with your shopping hiatus, make a plan for your wardrobe and stick to it. As you go along, make note of anything that’s missing or anything that needs replacing for a higher-quality item. I’ve definitely come to appreciate the importance of quality over the last year, and over-time I’m aiming to switch out some of my fast-fashion, low quality items, to something more hard-wearing that will stand the test of time. 

So, now that we’ve gone through how to actually start a capsule wardrobe. Here are some things I’ve learned along the way, and hopefully these tips will help you too!

For example, a lot of people try to stick to a 37-piece capsule wardrobe. As I’ve just started, I decided to keep that number fairly fluid, and not be so strict on myself just yet. In theory, I have a 37-piece basics and all-year-round wardrobe but, for now, I’ve supplement this with seasonal items amounting to around half of my all-year-round capsule.  

As you go along, you can edit this process to fit your own lifestyle. If you need two capsule wardrobes, like one for work and one for the weekends, go for it. If you need more than 37 items, add ‘em in. If you hate numbers and rules, scrap them all together. No matter what, make it yours - and enjoy it. For anything to be sustainable, you have to enjoy it. 

Don’t be tempted to Marie Kondo (or KonMari) the crap out of everything overnight. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Don’t be blinded by the ‘get rid of it all’ mentality. Pace yourself and take your time over your decisions to keep or discard. 

If you’re nervous about getting rid of some clothes, simply store them instead. This acts as a safety net, so you avoid any rash decisions (which can be easily done when you’re on a clear-out rampage.) Plus, this gets the visual clutter out of your wardrobe but takes the pressure off. And later, if you realise you miss something, go grab it. Once the new season comes around, you can reassess items in storage. If you've not even thought about it, chances are you're best donating it.

I think one of the most important things is to focus on finding yourself in your wardrobe, instead of defining your style by other people’s standards.

For instance, I have a very monochrome all-year-round wardrobe, with plenty of white, black or grey pieces (see above.) I love me a bit of Scandi-chic. But, I've supplement this with a few colour pops in my seasonal wardrobe (see below.) I’ve found that I’m particularly drawn to mustard yellow and bottle greens. I also love anything with spots, stripes or daisy print.

Now while this seems like perfection to me, someone else might feel mildly nauseated by the mere thought of mustard yellow in their wardrobe. They might recoil at the idea of a monochrome capsule, and find that incredibly dull and boring. Some people need variety, some people want bold pieces and others want something more cohesive, and any version of that is ok. What’s important is that it’s 100% you, and you’re not basing your decisions on trends or what your friends might wear.

Side note: If it was down to my partner Dan, he would for sure have an entire wardrobe of garments in different shades of grey. And while I joke that he’s my “50 Shades of Grey” (I am utterly hilarious…) if it makes him happy then that’s all that matters.

Is the item flattering on you? Does it suit your body shape or complexion? These are some of the things you should also consider for a lasting closet. As with cuts of clothing, some colours are more flattering than others, to both skin tone and body shape. If the shape and colours are well-chosen, the items are more likely to remain your favourites.

As the idea of a capsule wardrobe is to own a few items of clothing that can be worn different ways, individual pieces get lots of wear. So it’s a good idea to choose clothing that is well made, and made from high-quality materials when you can. This is something you can work on over time, by replacing some of your cheaper items to something with a nicer finish. 

As well as lessons learned, I’ve also discovered some amazing plus points to the capsule wardrobe. Here are just a few!

It’s easier to pick an outfit - Yes, no longer will you stare into the cluttered fabric-abyss of your closet. Remember the days when you had a million clothes but still thought “What the hell do I wear today?” With less visual clutter, and only items left that you LOVE, you’ll pick out an outfit faster than you can say “That’s not my gusset!”

You save money - You’ve done the hard bit, you’ve raised a middle-finger to consumerism and damn it feels good. But you’re also saving money too - what a bloody bonus. Having a capsule wardrobe encourages you to shop less, and get more use out of the items you love. So even after a short period of time, you’ll have saved a hefty sum (particularly if you’re a serial pay-day shopper!) 

You’re more creative with fashion - This is one I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find. I’ve naturally experimented more. I’ve discovered new outfits hiding in my closet, that I might not have throw together otherwise. For example, I never would have thrown on this mustard jumper over my spotty dress, had I not created my capsule wardrobe. I’m absolutely loving this combo and it feels like a whole new outfit I purchased from the store - but it’s been sitting in my closet this whole time!

You appreciate your clothes more - This one sounds as fluffy as your tacky Christmas jumper, but it’s true. Once you’ve cottoned-on to the clothes you cannot live without (see what I did there) you have a new-found love and respect for them. It’s a pure kind of love. The kind of love you only see in movies.

You’re helping the environment - In the wise words of Orsola De Castro I’m a big believer that “the most sustainable garment is the one already in your wardrobe.” With fashion being the second biggest polluter in the world, it’s a huge contributor to climate change. If we want to make lasting change, we have to stop putting money into the hands of fast-fashion giants. We need to send a clear message to brands that we want a better. We want workers rights, sustainable cotton-farming, higher-quality garments, less production and far less waste. A capsule wardobe, is a great place to start to help the environment, and become part of the sustainable revolution. 

This is why, from this point, I have vowed not to buy new. I've decided I'm not going to fund high-street and fast-fashion labels anymore. I will only be buying second-hand or vintage to reduce my consumption from now on. This is something I have found huge joy in already. It’s reinvigorated my love for shopping, as I rummage through thrift/vintage shops, never entirely sure what gems or treasures I might find. If you’ve never tried it, I encourage you to give it a go and see what you think! It’s usually a great way to find high-quality pieces at a low price too. Plus your money could be going to a great charity. Another huge bonus!

If I absolutely have to buy new, I will thoroughly research ethical and sustainable brands, who hold the same values I do. While I know this isn’t for everyone, and sustainable fashion often comes at a higher price point, I feel it’s a price worth paying, especially if I’m in a position where I can afford it. 

So there you have it! I hope you enjoyed my starter’s guide to a capsule wardrobe and why I’m no longer buying new. I will be sharing more details and tips about my wardrobe transformation and what's inside my closet very soon! But for now, if you have anymore tips or tricks on how to declutter or shop sustainably I'd absolutely love to hear them, so please let me know in the comments below. 

Want some more resources on the capsule wardrobe or to learn more about sustainable fashion? Take a look at some of my favourites below.

Fashion's Dirty Secrets (Documentary on BBC)

A capsule wardrobe is the practice of editing your wardrobe down to your favourite clothes, remixing them regularly, and shopping less often and more intentionally. So how do you start a sustainable capsule wardrobe? Let’s get straight down to it.

Plastic Free Periods + Reusable Sanitary Pads

Independent + Sustainable Christmas Gift Guide

Sustainable Christmas Stocking Fillers - Gift Ideas

Switching to Natural Make-Up - Organic + Plant-Based Favourites

Starting a Capsule Wardrobe + Not Buying New