No New Clothes

We’ve all been there - our fifth outfit hitting the floor as we try yet again to find something that is on trend and not something I’ve already worn that week. You’re out of breath, sweating, and feeling as if you have nothing in your wardrobe for the eighth time this year. Before you turn to Shein and spend an absurd amount of money on cheap clothing that will not only fall apart after one wear, but also probably give you some sort of health issue in the future due to all the chemicals it’s dyed with, let me give you some tips on how to re-wear, reuse, and renew some of those pieces in your wardrobe that you may think are too far gone to save. You don’t have to turn to fast fashion to stay up with the current season's trends — allow me to show you how.

Tip #1 - Layering, Layering, Layering

Anything can feel new when it is combined with other pieces to create a new aesthetic. Maybe it is that old white turtleneck you have had in the back of your closet for years - throw a sweater vest on top, or put it under a slip dress and it becomes an entirely different look. Or how about that knit cardigan you picked up at Goodwill that you swore you would wear in the colder months - add an oversized jacket on top to give it a harder edge. Accessories are also a very easy way to spice up any typical look - chains, harnesses, corsets, and bodices are just a few different items that can make any drab item feel new again. Especially in the winter months, this can spice up your typical sweater and jeans look.

Some of the people to look to for layering inspiration are Lucy McFadin, Ruby Lyn, and Amy Nathalie all on Instagram.

Tip #2 - Embrace the Ugly

We all have those pieces in the back of our wardrobe that we think are too far gone - there’s absolutely no salvaging them. Maybe they just never fit quite right, the color is just off, or maybe it was a gift from someone who does not know you very well. Have you ever tried upcycling them into something new? I know not everyone can be a world-class seamstress, but even just taking some scissors and cropping that old t-shirt or sweater can give an old item new life. You can even try using fabric glue or stitch tape to create those clean hems on your next new piece.

If you’re feeling like trying something new, get yourself a needle and some thread and try to turn your least favorite top into a one-of-a-kind piece. I understand the struggle that comes with not knowing how to sew, but just sitting down and trying can lead you to a lot of cool things. Plus, Youtube can be your best friend in this situation! Since I started learning how to sew just last summer, I have been able to hem skirts, dart jeans and even take in the waist on flowy dresses.

Regardless of your upcycling abilities, give the items in the back of your closet a chance. You never know how your opinions may have changed.

Some people to look to for upcycling innovation are UGA’s own Lillian Maple, Ashley Rous, and Dani Dawks.

Tip #3 - If You Like it, Dye it

Similar to my last tip about upcycling, dying dingy or stained clothes can give them an entirely new look or feel. I know the struggle all too well of spilling something on a white top or dress and being unable to wear it again because the stain is too set in, but just buying some fabric dye can help give that once-ruined piece a chance to be worn again. Some dyes can be harmful to the environment though, so just be conscious about what you are purchasing before you start.

Alternatively, natural dying methods have become very popular over the last few years via Tik Tok and Instagram. Whether it’s using avocado pits to create a beautiful mauve-pink color, or turmeric for a bright yellowish, orange, natural dyes can be just as effective as store-bought brands when used on the right fabrics.

The most eco friendly fabric dyes are always going to be natural, but if you want one from the store Rit Dye has a lot of good color options.

We all want a new wardrobe every time the seasons change, but that isn’t sustainable for our wallets or the planet. The next time you feel like you have nothing to wear, or you’re just bored with your closet, try some of these tips and see what sticks. In the end just trying different combinations of clothing could make your next favorite outfit so do not get discouraged —get dressed.

Strike Out,

Haley Wolf

Edited by: Jordan Ross

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