I’m a strong believer in the freedom that comes from reinvention. Secondhand style has meant that I have been able to reinvent myself at moments in life not only when I was flying high on success as a TV presenter, but also when I had hit rock bottom. Through break ups/ addictions and breakdowns. My clothes always hold memories, you ask me where a piece is from in my closet and I will tell you the whole backstory. So when I wanted to change things up, start a new chapter, I was able to curate new looks that looked premium and priceless on a budget. Secondhand styling is about reusing, reworking and rethinking a look.
It’s about being resourceful, intentional and caring with clothes and most importantly it’s about encouraging people to believe that reinventing your look and life is a good thing. Change is good and generally we shy away from it because of fear. There is no fear with second hand styling. It’s affordable and it doesn't cost you a fortune if you do make a mistake. How we consume clothes needs to change and how we treat the secondhand space needs to be elevated. Showcasing the goodness that can come from re-loving past tales of fashion will help enrich not only our environment but also the people that live in it. When people ask me where my clothes are from, I remember myself as a teenager, being too embarrassed to admit that my dress for the disco was from a charity shop. Now I say with pride, it’s secondhand.
New to sourcing secondhand? Let's start with the basics. This is everything you need to know when it comes to buying pre-loved essentials that will fundamentally be the foundation to any strong outfit.
The capsule wardrobe requires a well-edited closet, selecting pieces that work together and that can be worn many different ways to maximize your choices.…Staples are so important. I had none of these when I moved back to the UK.
Even though secondhand shopping is more affordable than purchasing the items retail, you still must keep your budget in mind. So carving out room on your wish list for relaxed essentials will help you upcycle your looks time and time again.
For me, items like a good pair of jeans, a crisp white collared shirt, a black skirt, a black pair of jeans, a jean shirt, and a good blazer are all wardrobe essentials.
When choosing your essentials it’s key to think about quality. You want these pieces to last and of course the main goal is to wear them as many times as possible . I’m a sucker for cashmere, true vintage pieces and absolutely love silk. Also, here’s a little secret. Keep an eye out for men’s shirts as good additions to the essentials list. I am all about upcycling my boyfriend’s Ralph Lauren shirts.
When thinking about essentials, focus on building a foundation full of pieces that can help you maximise looks. It may not feel as exciting when buying the simpler styles, but without a strong base, the fun, floaty, one of a kind garments will be lost.
When styling secondhand essentials- essentially it’s all about the quality. They make the additional layers always look premium.
You may think you can shop fast-fashion and get those essentials new and at half the price, but the truth is they won’t last. Choose to be conscious about your decisions and invest in garments that will help your transition your looks from one season and chapter of your life to the next.
I’m Lucy, and remember you don't need a million to look like a million.
Watch the full Essentials Episode HERE
