There it sits on the rack, urging you to run your fingers through its fabric, try it on and take it to the till. But is there a similar item you’ll demote to the back of the wardrobe or, even worse, throw away? If so, you’re not alone. The stats are mind-boggling: An estimated £140 million of clothes are thrown away every year One-third of clothes clogging up our wardrobes haven’t been worn for a year or more This week the British government announced a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions in the UK to zero by 2050. That means we’re all going to need to change our ways and reduce, reuse and recycle – and ditch our throwaway habits fast. Watching a David Attenborough documentary then tweeting a sad face emoji isn’t enough. Here are some you can do your bit: Follow the slow style road – When you […]

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As we’ve got a passion for reuse, repairs and upcycling here at The Zip Yard, we love to share stories about folks across the UK who share our values. A recent story that warmed our hearts comes from the South Wales valleys, where Maesteg Comprehensive School adopted a refreshing approach to the traditional prom party for its Year 11 students. When the school’s head teacher realised that a pupil was reluctant to attend because of the cost of a new outfit, two PE department colleagues put out an appeal on social media for donations of prom gowns for pupils to use for free. The response was overwhelming. Around 200 gowns, plus shoes and accessories, were donated by ex-pupils, local people and businesses. A wedding shop loaned 30 brand new dresses. This is a win-win situation for the school and the wider community. It presents a real opportunity to discourage teenagers […]

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