As a first year Fashion Promotion student at USW, the way that I behave as a consumer of fashion has developed and evolved since moving here to Cardiff. Not only were my shopping and buying habits slightly different back home in Kent but how I choose to style myself has also notably changed.
Sustainability has always been an interest to me, likely from being influenced by my mum who is always trying to be a sustainable consumer. Although my shopping habits have not always been sustainable, the occasional purchase from fast fashion chains such as Pretty Little Thing or Missguided, I always try to purchase garments which I’m sure to wear for a long time or are second hand. I often shop in Charity Shops or on Depop. As a consumer, I try to buy sustainably or ethically made garments when I can and I often shop on ASOS under the ‘sustainable edit.’
I also enjoy shopping at vintage stores online and in-store at Rokit, Rick’s Retro, Lovely & Loveless and COZY NATION; to name a few. I try to incorporate these pieces into my own wardrobe.
As a consumer, I follow current trends within the media and follow influencers on social media: Instagram and YouTube. I take inspiration from influencers such as PAQ as well as ‘ASOS insiders.’ While taking inspiration from current trends and influencers, I enjoy having my own individual style.
I like to choose garments which are relaxed, comfortable, quirky, fun and bold. I often find these pieces at brands such as ASOS or Urban Outfitters. My favourite wardrobe staples have come from ASOS or UO. For example, a bright sky blue floral jacquard puffer jacket from ASOS or a floral UO wrap summer dress.
‘A unique and imaginative’ is how my style has been described; a strong mix of eclectic and artsy pieces with a bright, vibrant colour palette. ‘Almost streetwear’ is how my boyfriend chose to describe it. The freedom to choose what I want to wear, without having to worry about ‘matching’ means I can feel comfortable in my own skin, whether that be wearing a luminous yellow ‘construction site’ jacket or hot pink flares. However, while saying this, I find that my style evolves to wherever I am and so I dress according to my location; here in Cardiff, my style has become a lot more relaxed and casual.
One of my biggest dilemmas I’ve had living in Cardiff is only having half of my wardrobe here with me and half at home; I often find myself thinking ‘that would go great with that top!’ Only to remember that the top is at home!
Zoë x
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