What do we get from shopping Trends?

Welcome back to Ben Asks, where I pose questions, big and small. This time, I am pondering what we get from buying into clothing trends and consuming items from fast-fashion outlets.

Over the past few years, I have consciously tried to slow down how I consume fashion. Whether that is buying second-hand, or trying to turn to my wardrobe first instead of shopping.

This season, I found myself lured into the new in sections of a few places. The shiny, fresh pieces were calling my name. Why not buy a few things? Update my wardrobe, I said to myself.

I bought some trend pieces, and I also bought some basics. Nothing was simple, and repeatedly I asked myself what I was getting out of all this.

Let’s start with the trend pieces. I bought a jacket from M&S and an asymmetric camisole from Sainsbury’s. Both pieces look great online, on the model, and on the influencers who have been styling the pieces.

The jacket was great, but just not my style. I have no idea why I thought it would work. The top was lovely, but sizing meant it just didn’t work for my body. I spent a few days feeling really bad about this, that my body somehow wasn’t good enough for trendy fashion.

Before I stopped myself and realised that I didn’t need to change, the clothes were just not made for me. I don't need to change, the industry does!

Both M&S and Sainsbury’s state that if returns are not faulty or damaged, they will be resold, so while there is an impact in the shipping and return of items, the item itself is not committed to landfill like some brands’ returns.

Of the basics I bought, I kept 50%. The sizing was so inconsistent. I was able to wear three different sizes. I bought the same style of trousers, both the same size, in two different colours, one fit, the other didn’t.

I have forgotten that I’ve been buying second-hand for so long. You ask for measurements, so you know if something will fit. Buying from high street stores means you can’t guarantee the fit. When I returned the items, the staff were not even surprised when I mentioned the sizing inconsistencies.

We have seen that we all need to slow our consumption, and it can be tricky when we exist in a culture that wants nothing more than to sell to us.

The lure of the new is a strong force, but my recent experiences have taught me that slower, more sustainable options greatly reduce the chance of retail misery.

So I am renewing my commitment to shop my own wardrobes, and if I have to shop, then I will ensure that I utilise second-hand and sustainable options.