HOW TO: Invite over a friend whose style you love and have them dress you up in 5 new looks that they choose. Chances are they will see your clothing from a different perspective and give you some new looks to play with.

HOW TO: Host a “stitch and bitch” party with friends and bring clothing that needs repair, or that your just getting tired of wearing. Youtube videos on how to add patches, beadwork, chain stitch, cross stitch, or other creative repair techniques and have fun! If you have a garment that is worn out, cut the part that is still good and use it as patches, or make a patchwork piece to sew on the back of a plain shirt. Also making dye-baths for those worn out looking black clothes or stianed white clothes will breathe new life into them.

HOW TO: Host a clothing & stuff swap! Be sure to include a few people in each size category so no one is left out. Bring gently used or new items (that gift your aunt gave you that you’ll never use). Another great resource are your firends! Borrowing (clothing, dishes, party supplies, games, tools, etc.) for a special project, event or date is a great way to stretch your resources. Be respectful to take care of the item and return it as soon as your done to keep these channels open and reciprocal.

HOW TO: So you’ve exhausted your resources in numbers 1-3 and it’s time to make a purchase. Look for brands that have quality fabrics, or mash-up a couple of pieces with those sewing skills (a sleeve from one garment on the sleeve of another, and give that 2nd piece to your best-twin, or a 3x skirt with cool fabric you can turn into a shirt). I love to get flower vases or unique cups from the thrift store and give them as gifts with spring flowers in them. Also looking for re-sell items on platforms like Craigslist is a great way to get a deal. Make sure to meet your seller in your cities designated safety zones, a police station, or a well lit and monitored area with high traffic.

HOW TO: If you are crafty, handmake that scarf or planter pot you’ve been needing. If you are not the crafty type pay a friend who is. Be sure to set out a clear expectation of how much you want to spend and what materials you like. Enjoy being collaborative and creative! If you are needing a gift for a friend consider what that person enjoys doing- cooking, gardening, baking, slinging cocktails? Make a themed gift by utilizing pinterests for ideas.

HOW TO: Shop craft fairs, farmer’s markets, and boutique stores that focus on locally made goods. Some of my favorite local items to purchase are soap, honey, candles, jams, stationary, pottery, cards, and jewelry. Near and dear to my heart is also shopping artisan made goods. Make sure the company has an “about us” section that talks about the workers and who is making your items. There are, unfortunately, a rise of brands claiming to be ethical but are far from it. Use your intuition. If something looks like cheap, fast fashion, it likely is.