Stylists in Bristol are urging a shift towards sustainable fashion, warning that the planet already has enough clothes to last six generations. Meg Cox, a stylist from the city, has curated a fashion show using items from Brandon Trust Charity shops and sustainable labels to spark conversation on the issue.
Linda Bennett, owner of vintage shop Bristol Saint, who will assist backstage at the free event, said sustainable fashion is essential because 'there's no choice anymore'. She criticised the rise of 'super-fast fashion', noting that clothes are mass-produced without care and often end up in landfill. Bennett buys all her clothes second-hand, saying it feels 'special' and 'earned'.
Amber Watson, 30, will model for the first time at the show, describing it as an opportunity to 'feel really empowered' while celebrating sustainability. She wears a jacket her grandpa wore in the army, saying second-hand clothes make her 'feel connected to history'. Watson added that the show will be inclusive, allowing more people to enjoy fashion sustainably.
Ms Cox said thrifting is cheap and offers unique items that last longer. 'One item tends to only be worn seven times, so let's elongate that by wearing second-hand and wearing your grandma or mum's wardrobe,' she said. She also runs styling sessions at a Brandon Trust shop in Bedminster through her brand Clothemod, supporting adults with learning difficulties.
The free and pay-as-you-feel event is supported by Brandon Trust, Sparks, and local sustainable designers. Petra Littlefair, retail manager at Brandon Trust, highlighted the role of charity shops in the 'circular economy', offering eco-friendly, community-based shopping that benefits people with learning disabilities and autism.
The Clothemod Re-wear Revolution Fashion Show will take place at Clothing X Change in Broadmead on Thursday at 19:00 BST.
