Shop your own wardrobe this Second-Hand September

Hello September! It’s one of my favourite months which I feel like - regardless of whether you’ve finished school many moons ago like myself - i’ll always just associate this autumnal month with freshness and new beginnings.

It’s somewhat of an easier month to start new things instead of January where you’re still possessed by festive lethargy.

In September you’ve enjoyed a lovely summer and now you’re ready to enter the autumn months with a fresh new look. You’re not quite ready to pack away the summer gear, so it’s all about subtly transitioning your pieces and wearing your summer bits while adding in slowly some warmer weather clothing.

Also, as its Second-Hand September, I encourage you to take a good look at your wardrobe and donate any pieces you feel like you won’t wear or pop a few bits on Vinted and make some extra cash all while doing your bit for circular fashion.

I also am trying very hard to not buy anything new this season which I am finding a bit difficult, but I’m determined to shop my own wardrobe and I know when I start going through my autumn pieces they will feel like new again. If I do have to add in any bits, I’m going to be hitting up my local charity shops where possible.

For second hand shopping inspiration, there are lots of people on Instagram doing great posts about this. Just follow the second-hand September hashtag and you should find a whole host of people styling their pre-loved pieces. Find someone whose style you like and set up an inspiration folder for those days when you’re feeling less than inspired.

At this time of year, I like to keep things simple and focus on the basics. I love to incorporate a great jacket into my autumn wardrobe and of course leather jackets are having a sartorial moment. I bought a leather blazer a few years ago and I have worn it so much.

It gives a more tailored, formal feel than a biker and could even be styled for workwear with trousers and a simple t-shirt underneath. I’ve started wearing my black cigarette trousers a lot lately with this sort of look and styling them with trainers for a smart casual feel.

I’ve also pulled out some of my wider leg trousers and again these are perfect to wear with boots or with a trainer. I also have a grey wool blazer that I bought in the sales last year and it has been one of my best buys in a long time. I wore it so much last year and now I’ll be using it to transition my wardrobe over to autumn. I’ll wear it with jeans and t-shirts (a classic style choice) but it also works so well with skirts.

I still am not prepared to give up on my white midi skirts, so I’ll style it with trainers, a light knit and my grey oversized blazer and I’ll get another month out of it before I pack it away for next year. The blazer also works so well over silky slip skirts and an oversized white shirt for workwear or over a simple dress. Add a scarf for a pop of colour or an injection of print and you’ll be all set for the season.

Essentially all you need to bring your wardrobe up to date is a few versatile jackets so have a look at what you have and get inventive with your styling.