5 steps to greener Christmas
By Florenne Earle Ledger published 30/11/2022
Ho Ho Ho, the Whering Christmas Grinch returns. We’re here *again* to help you navigate the environmental landmine that is Christmas.
We have a couple of tips to help you get involved in the festive cheer, without costing the earth. Think of it as your gift to Mother Nature (it was so thoughtful of you to get her something).
Since we’re a fashion app, we’re keeping our tips within the fashion realm. But don’t let us stop you from discovering other ways to be more sustainable this festive season , such as enjoying a veggie Christmas dinner or boycotting single-use plastic tape.
The Build up
Our first tips cover the exciting period before the big day.
Rent & Repeat
This first one might seem a little basic, but why not set yourself the challenge to rewear the same outfit on more than one festive occasion?
Whether you’re wearing the same look to your work Christmas party and for New Years Eve, rewhering outfits is easy.
If you are craving something new, try borrowing from a friend or renting a dress. Let’s be honest, we can’t afford most of the dresses on rental platforms at full price. That’s why rental is great — it’s a more affordable way to wear high quality clothes.
You don’t even have to rent a dress, you could borrow a bag, a jacket or some shoes from a friend— anything that dresses up your look and makes you feel brand new without buying anything.
Shop Smart
We’re not going to tell you not to shop the sales because discounts are great for getting things you need for less, buttt we’re never going to encourage revamping your whole wardrobe in the Boxing Day sales either, tempting as it may be.
It was literally just Black Friday but the sales are back on Boxing Day and, shortly after, the ‘New Year, New Me’ tactic will be out in full force.
This year we're trying not to give in to the adverts and convince ourselves we need things we don’t even like that much. Listen to yourself and enjoy having your own taste.
Gift Giving
Don't Buy Fast Fashion Gifts
It’s simple, don’t buy gifts from fast fashion brands this year (or any year whilst you're at it). People might ask for things from Urban Outfitters or ZARA, and it’s always hard to say no to someone you love, but this year why not label yourself as the person boycotting these brands beyond their own wardrobe? Your decision may spark that all-important conversation with friends or family.
Gift an Experience
Most of us have too many clothes or belongings already, that’s what makes 'experience presents' so much fun. It’s a great way to spend more time with someone and have something exciting booked in the diary.
There are so many great experiences you can book online but if nothing takes your fancy, why not plan something yourself? Set aside a random day next year and plan what you’ll do from breakfast to post-dinner drinks — not only a thoughtful gift, it has less of an impact on the planet (within reason!!) than buying random, little bits for the sake of it.
Slow fashion sleighs
If your bestie is a Slow Fashion Queen, then we have a range of gift ideas perfect for them — and if they don’t care about the planet, change their mind with these thoughtful presents.
Is your friend always asking to borrow that jacket you never wear? You can probably guess where we’re going with this, but why not give it to them? If you don’t wear it, then there really is no harm in gifting it to them.
You could also pay for a friend to get an item repaired or altered. Life is so fast-paced that there’s never time to get clothes repaired, so it really is a great gift to be able to sort out a repair for a friend or family member. It doesn’t have to be the whole gift, but it definitely saves them time and money.
Last but not least, ask your friends and family to share their Whering wishlist with you so you can be sure you’re giving them something they’ll love!
There’s so many more things you can do to have a more sustainable holiday season, so please get involved in the conversation on Instagram and Twitter @whering__ and let us know what we’ve missed. Happy holidays ✨
Something on your mind?
Share your thoughts with Whering community.
If you have an idea for an article around fashion, culture, environment, news, wellness, shopping or DIY, submit a pitch to us!