50 – 60 years ago, fast fashion didn’t really exist. Many people handmade their clothes, and made them to last. Their clothes were a statement,

In 1960s London, everywhere was a catwalk. The streets, a trip to the bar, even your weekly food shop. Fashion was brought to the forefront with two distinctive groups, Mods and Rockers showing up in all their best gear whatever the occasion.

In 1970s America, amongst a era of protests and social change, Earth Day was born over growing concerns for the planet. Hippies and wanderers defined the style od the decade (which we’re seeing a revival of thanks to the release of Daisy Jones and The Six. It’s all about free silhouettes, sustainability and all the love.

So how am I supposed to relate this to my wardrobe now, we hear you cry. We’re getting to that. First, it’s spring cleaning time baby. Go through your wardrobe make an (somewhat) organised pile of pieces you’re unsure of.

Now, let’s take inspiration from these eras and apply them to our wardrobes.

1960s

Just like the Mods and Rockers in 60s London, it’s time to stop saving things “for best”. See if you can style your maxi dresses for daily wear, or bring out that jazzy jumpsuit for meeting a friend for some drinks. So much of what we wear ends up reflecting how we feel, so why not bring out the best and rewear them as much as you can.

If you’ve got any pieces that are reallllyyy fancy, then don’t worry, you can still hang on to them. Just make the pledge to yourself to rewear and show them off as much as possible.

1970s

Embrace your inner flower child and think plant-first when it comes to your clothes. Think, mend, restyle, swap and recycle.

Mend: If you’re handy with a needle and thread, then it’s time to start fixing holes and reattaching buttons. For big changes, unless you know your way around a sewing machine, it might be time to visit your local tailor. You’re fave dress will be good as new in no time.

Restyle: It’s kind of in the title. Try as many different outfit combos as you can with the item of clothing. If you can’t find a way to love it, it’s time to send it to a new home.

Swap: Our fave part. Shake things up just like the Hippies of the 70s. Instead of buying new pieces to replace the ones you no longer love. Upload them to Bandi! You can swap them for a new-to-you item, and all you have to pay is postage.
Recycle: Some things are beyond saving. So when you’re clothes have truly reached the end of their life, send them to textile recycling so they can be repurposed into something new.

So, which era are you feeling?