2014 Update

I can’t believe I’m here writing my first post of 2014 and we’re already half way through January! Apologies for the silence, I’ve been stuck in an essay hole that I’ve finally resurfaced from, which means I’ve now got time to blog again. I was very lucky and got some beautiful clothes for Christmas this year, so lots of outfit posts on the way and also an interview with the lovely Noorin Khamisani from Outsider Fashion that I’m really excited to share with you.

Although there has been lots of positive press in response to Ethical Fashion Show Berlin, which was put on in collaboration with the Greenshowroom last week at Berlin Fashion Week,  I can’t seem to find much in the way of the brands showcased. I did come across a post by Green Stilettos though who mentions the German brand Luxaa in her highlights. The brand use clever recycling techniques to produce their beautiful pieces. As usual, it is their minimalist design that I’m drawn to and the use of simple, classic shapes. Sadly, all out of my price range at the moment, but hey, a spot of idealistic dreaming’s what fashion week’s all about.

Can Fashion Change the World?

Back in November I went to hear a talk at the V&A hosted by fair-fashion pioneers Livia Firth and Lucy Siegle entitled 'Can Fashion Change the World?' Due to a totally hectic last few months at Uni I never got round to writing anything about it but now that life has calmed down a little I’ve written a little response by way of UoN's Impact Style that can now be read online here.

It was really amazing to hear Livia and Lucy speak, and to hear first hand about the problems surrounding the fashion industry, but also the incredible progress that the two have made alongside Eco-Age and The Green Carpet Challenge. The V&A put on some amazing talks and events so keep an eye out, this one only cost £7 for a student ticket.

For anyone who wants to know more, Livia gave a similar talk for Apple as part of the Fashion In Conversation series, the podcast of which can be downloaded for free here.

Here’s what I wore to the talk: Second-hand pyjama-esque trousers and vintage bag, with Zara jumper and jacket, and Office boots.

Cashmere Convert

How many oversized pieces can you work into one outfit? I’ve taken my love for baggy, mannish shapes to the extreme this time, taking inspiration from my previous post with neutral colours and loose shapes. Alongside my second-hand Jupe cashmere trousers, I’m wearing an old white shirt from Gap bought several years ago in the sale with my vintage coat and very old sneakers that Father Christmas has now kindly replaced.

Part of my bid to shop sustainably involves buying less and sourcing classic, versatile pieces that can be worn in various different ways. I think these trousers definitely fit that bill. Although I’ve dressed them down here they could also work with heels and a little jacket for a more feminine feel. Their colour also allows for versatility, so I’ll be shedding my winter comfort blanket of black, grey and white and taking them into spring with lighter t-shirts and more vibrant hues.

Hope everyone had a lovely christmas. What was your favourite thing you got this year? I was very lucky and got some beautiful clothes, including a prized second-hand Michael Kors blazer from my boyfriend, discovered in an antique centre and that luckily fits like a glove. The boy did good. Said blazer will feature on a post in the new year. 

And just quickly a big thank you to everyone who has taken an interest in A Sustainable Thread over the past few months. Whether you’ve read it occasionally or tuned in devotedly to every post I am very grateful and totally thrilled by the positive responses. Have a very happy new year and see you in 2014!

PPhotos taken by Jamie Biles

Comfort Dressing

I finally seem to be getting the hang of Pinterest so rather than just re-pinning pretty pictures I’ve started using it to search for specific outfit inspiration. Seeing how others have styled certain key pieces really helps me to plan ahead and buy with purpose, yet also highlights how I can make the most of what I already own.

Lately, I've been after a pair of wide-legged baggy trousers so that I can indulge in a bit of winter comfort dressing. After unsuccessfully trawling the Internet in search of a second-hand pair I very luckily stumbled across some cashmere (!!) ones in a vintage shop just before leaving Notts for Christmas. They were an absolute steal and as always with amazing vintage pieces I couldn’t believe they were still sitting there or that someone had given them away in the first place!

Outfit post on said trousers will follow shortly but in the meantime here’s some wide-legged infused inspiration. Common denominators seem to be neutral colours, turned-up hems and lots of loose-fitting layers.

Images via Pinterest

Pick of the Week

As of 2014, 'Pick of the week' will become a regular feature on A Sustainable Thread. Each week I'll be sharing a favourite sustainable, ethical or vintage piece from various online, and so easily accessible, outlets. Let me know what you think or if you have any suggestions as I'd love to hear them!

I've been searching for a good-quality grey knit since October and it seems hanging on for the perfect one has finally paid off. I came across &Daughter the other day through Vogue's online feature on them, see here. Though not marketed as specifically sustainable, they adhere to a sustainable mind-set with their philosophy for timelessness, investment and quality.  Their range of knitwear is made on the borders of Scotland from natural yarns such as cashmere and wool. I've got my eye on their ribbed crewneck sweater as I love the less-chunky looking shape and slightly shorter fit. 

Photo see link