Fashions come and go, but one that seems to be on the rise in returning (and sticking) is recycling. You heard me right, re-using and taking on the whole ‘make do and mend’ approach made famous by Britain has been back in style throughout the late 2010’s, with it seemingly reaching its peak between 2015 – 2017.
It began with back combing and the tutus of the 80’s but is now stretching even further back at present to incorporate the 40’s – 60’s. You might think this sound likes hogwash, but really think about it and you’ll realise that about 10 minutes ago you saw a colleague with some horn rimmed glasses or a fellow student with a rather fabulous satchel. Once you start seeing it, it starts to emerge everywhere and then the obvious step from there is asking why is this the case? Why is it that the previously dormant recycling is suddenly THE ultimate trend on the tongues of the public?
I think that it’s a mix of things, because there is never any sole factor that leads to anything fashion related or otherwise. A big factor in the rise of re-using the old is cost and a world where the pound is fast on the rise. Everything is so much cheaper because it has been worn and loved, adding an extra layer of comfort to a sweater or pair of sandals alike. On top of that, it means being able to take a keen interest in history, with the opportunity to get in touch with new icons from other ages.
In this regard, it’s definitely evidence of the pro-side of being a millennial because not only is everything vintage so readily available in thrift stores but we have the internet and our parents, grandparents, etc to guide us through what was to die for and what can be our next move in keeping one step ahead when starting our own fashion checklists. There are a thousand different trends and identities to play with in constructing our own unique image. Being able to learn from such inspiring women and model my own look on them is something I really enjoy about shopping through an older range.
On top of this, in an age where the world is constantly in crisis due to new discoveries related to the growing emergence of global warming and the contribution to this damage via all things plastic (I’m looking at you, microbeads), it is comforting that the approach to combatting it is in making the most of what is already readily available opposed to forcing new manufacturing. Afterall, just because something new is easilly accessible and on offer doesn’t necessarily mean that it is going to be something that will last.
Recycling for fashion means not only a sophisticated look with a modern twist on the existent, but also the opportunity for the world to take note through this that trends can surpass merely what we wear or accessorise with. Why is it, do you think, that as this recycling trend has risen so too have the numbers of those investing in others such as minimalism and veganism? People are becoming more morally conscious and where is the first evidence going to be rooted when we need to see what exactly is going on in the mind of our societies? In our pop culture, in our daily habits, in our homes and of course, in our wardrobes!
If you’ve ever needed an excuse to go thrifting then let this be one – head out and treat yourself to something cute and environmentally friendly. And when you do, remember exactly how one action like that can change the world.
