I am not a complete tree hugger, but lately have started to become a lot more aware of how my consumer choice can effect the environment, particularly where clothing and fashion is concerned. Recent years have shown a move by some fashion retailers to produce and sell cheap and badly made fast fashion to keep up with the latest trends as dictated by the industry. Whilst on occasion, I have been tempted and have even bought some of this fast fashion, I have been very quick to realise the errors of my ways. I have come to the conclusion that you get what you pay for, very cheap clothes generally look very cheap. Whilst they may be cheap in price, there is also an additional price to pay.

Fast fashion clothes are usually worn just a few times before been thrown away. The quality of the clothes means that they usually have very little second hand value and so are unlikely to be recycled. The disposal of clothes into landfill contributes to the methane emissions, a green house gas which is released from landfill as waste breaks down. Even worse, many synthetic materials do not break down at all and so remain in the ecosystem for ever.

Whilst I am concerned about environmental issues, I am determined to still look stylish and believe it is possible to be a responsible and stylish shopper. Here are my stylish tips for being stylish and minimising the environmental impact of your fashion choices:

• Where possible, choose natural fabrics produced locally
• Choose well made clothes that will last for more than season and can be sold recycled once you no longer want them.
• Take good care of your clothes - often mending or repairing can be an economical alternative to just throwing them away.
• When you have finished with your clothes sell them, swap them or donate to charity.
• Develop your own personal style so that you do not have to change your wardrobe every season to keep up with the latest fashions.

This wool Amanda Wakeley coat will last you for years and will definitely not end up as landfill in the near future.