Our Senior Marketing Manager, Angela Spiteri, shares how she’s keeping her autumn wardrobe stylish, affordable and planet-friendly.
From crisp mornings to cosy nights, autumn always feels like a style reset. The chunky knits, funky boots, bold layers, and those gorgeous golden tones leading into the sparkle of Christmas.
But instead of splurging on fast fashion, I lean into preloved, repaired, and reimagined style to keep things fresh, affordable, and sustainable. With a little creativity, autumn outfits can be just as stylish (and way more unique) that new, without costing the earth.
Here in Wales, we’re already the world’s second-best recycling nation, and nearly 70% of us buy preloved clothes at least some of the time. We want to become a zero-waste nation by 2050, and moving away from fast fashion is the best gift we can give to the planet this autumn, and beyond.
Here are my go-to tips for looking stylish the planet-friendly way – from everyday layering to Halloween fun and Christmas sparkle.
1. Shop your wardrobe first
At the start of every season, I give my wardrobe a reset. I pull things out, rediscover old favourites, and play around with new combinations. Summer skirts become autumn-ready with tights, boots, and a chunky cardigan for that cosy boho feel, while a jacket thrown over bold prints gives them a whole new edge.
It’s incredible how many “new” outfits you can create just by looking at what you already own with fresh eyes. Zero spend, maximum style.
2. Preloved autumn style
When my wardrobe needs a little refresh, preloved is my go-to. plan carefully and look for pieces that work across different outfits. Coats, boots, knitwear, vintage party sparkles – there are so many gorgeous and unique preloved options. They’re kinder on your wallet and give you a stylish look that’s full of personality that you just wouldn’t find on the high street.
If I’m searching for something specific on Vinted, here are my go-to tips:
Search by colour, style or brand alongside your size to narrow things down.
Save searches so you’ll be notified when the perfect item pops up.
Keep an eye on Vinted’s “similar items” suggestions – that’s where some of my best finds have come from.
Charity and vintage shops are also awesome for preloved buys – whether you’re after a retro autumn coat or a kids’ Halloween costume. I’ve picked up some absolute gems over the years – unique, affordable, and always with a story.
3. Halloween the sustainable way
I love Halloween – but not the plastic, single-use costumes. Instead, I start with my wardrobe and get creative. Reinvent my festival outfits, a splash of face paint and gems, and a few DIY touches can create your own spookyliciously unique, stylish and sustainable Halloween look.
That colourful festival outfit + flower crown = Day of the Dead queen.
Layer up all your leopard print = Fierce, funky cat costume.
Sparkly dress, horns + dramatic makeup = Disco demon.
For kids, swaps, charity shops and second-hand online marketplaces like Vinted and Ebay are full of spooky outfits that have only been worn once or a handful of times, making them both affordable and low-impact.
4. Christmas sparkle without the waste
Not quite there yet, but it’s creeping into our radar, and whilst it does, it’s definitely worth considering how you can craft your festive wardrobe the green way.
December outfits can be a minefield, but I’ve learned not to panic-buy fast fashion pieces. Instead, I lean into reimagining last year’s looks with different accessories; indulging in preloved sequins and festive pieces, or investing a statement accessory that instantly transforms a look.
If it’s a one-off occasion, borrowing or renting is also a great option. That way, I still get to enjoy something gorgeous and glam, but without it gathering dust in the wardrobe afterwards.
5. Repair: Fix, refresh, reinvent
‘Tis the season to give loved-but-worn pieces some TLC. Small fixes such as stitching seams, repairing holes or sewing on a button can give clothes years more life.
And if you’re not handy with a needle, head to your local Repair Café. Volunteers can fix clothing (and even electricals and bikes) for free while you enjoy a cuppa and a chat. It’s simple, social, and saves your favourites from landfill. Check out Repair Cafe Wales for events running in your local area.
Upcycling is also a great option and it’s such a mindful – keep an eye out for workshops and courses running in your area.
