Borrowing Clothes – Zero Waste Fashion Tips

I’m calling for people to borrow more clothing.

In the past, I’ve lent out dresses to friends of a similar size. In fact, my party dresses used to get so much more wear than they do now. If anyone wants to borrow one, please do!

In reality, it is madness to buy new when you potentially have another wardrobe to pick from. Wedding guest and event wear can be expensive and impractical to wear many times so it makes sense to look to a similarly sized friend or family member and raid their wardrobe. It’s even considered good luck for a bride to wear something borrowed while they get married!

Day to day our clothing can become monotonous. Especially at the end of a season, I’d rather be cold than wear that jumper again! Try having a browse in a friend’s wardrobe to see if you can swap something out. I often borrow shirts, tees or jumpers from my husbands’ wardrobe. Not because I need too, but it lends a new slant to a pair of jeans and stops me feeling like I have nothing to wear. All the images in this post include shirts and a sweatshirt borrowed from my husband. And a belt from my dad, although I’ll be honest – I’m not sure when he’s getting that back!

In terms of borrowing clothes from men, it can often be cut differently and with thicker fabrics which means they feel quite different to wear. I quite like the boxy shape of menswear, especially to dip into now and then.

If you are a different size from friends or family there is always the option to borrow bags, jewellery or accessories. How many times have you wanted to wear a dress but didn’t have the right bag or shoes to wear with them? It can be daunting having to go out and buy new, however, you really don’t have to.

Don’t fancy lending out your favourite clothes?

It goes without saying that some people just don’t like to lend out their clothing. I totally understand. Clothing can be so personal and there is a degree of trust in handing out your worldly goods. It’s a fine line between cherishing and taking care of our clothing and remembering they are material possessions.

If you want to give it a go, create some boundaries: Nothing sentimental, ask when they will return it and make sure they are the same size. Stretching out a friend’s clothes is a big no-no. It can add to the story of a garment if a trusted friend borrows it. And you are can raid their wardrobe next time!

Borrowing Clothes – A Few Rules:

Always as permission. An absolute must. Even if you know if they will lend it, it’s common courtesy to ask beforehand.

Treat With Care. Imagine it’s the most precious thing you own and treat it as such. Mistakes and accidents happen but try to reduce the risk.

Clean It Afterwards.  No one wants to smell your stale sweat on their favourite blouse.

Return It Quickly. If you borrow clothes for one night, it’s nice to give it back soon after.

Return The Favour! Nobody is saying you have to lend out your clothing, but if you borrowed from someone else before then…

Would you lend or borrow clothes from friends or family? 

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