‘Tis the season to be jolly, and for many, that means dashing through the shops to deck our halls and wardrobes galore. Christmas, albeit a joyful and wondrous holiday, is a time when fashion consumerism hits the roof faster than you can sing “fa-la-la-la-la.” Nowadays, the glamour of generous gifts and sparkly seasonal outfits can overshadow the Christmas spirit, and it is then that we must remind ourselves what the holidays are truly about. But why is it that we are so obsessed with overconsumption at this time of year and what are some solutions to this festive fast fashion?
Every year, once the Christmas season hits the shelves, we are bombarded with ads urging us to buy the latest festive trends. From sloganed Christmas jumpers, to the renowned “Christmas day outfit,” to the winter wardrobe palette that you must have this season, we are constantly being pushed to buy. The rush of the spending season and the temptation of the savvy sale prices often leads to excessive shopping, turning many of us into fashion hoarders and with a suffering bank account. With the fashion side of Tik Tok growing with talk of “what’s new in Zara,” or the colours that you “absolutely need in your winter wardrobe,” it can feel impossible to pry your fingers away from that two-factor authentication payment – making that hit to your bank account, not only painful once, but twice. By the time January rolls around, many of us find ourselves knee deep in garments that were never worn and with a wardrobe that won’t see the light of day til the following December.
Another element to consider of this sensational spending can also be nostalgia. Christmas is the most special time for many of us as kids. When we grow up and we no longer have a Santa Claus to bring us all of our desired presents, what better way to fulfil that emptiness than with a shopping spree where we can be our own Santa? Although I don’t particularly fancy walking around with a white beard and a beer belly, it can be comforting to buy the gifts that our inner child so dearly desires. Our holiday spending mimics that of what our parents spent for us. And with that, we can blame our parents for our wealthy spending habits!
But how can we shop more sustainably around the holidays? Well, take no shame in embracing the vintage vibe this Christmas. Charity shops across Dublin are filled with hidden gems just waiting for a second chance at the spotlight. Not only is shopping at charity shops budget-friendly, but it’s also a way to please the planet. Switch to sustainable spending habits and you may just guarantee yourself a spot on the nice list!
What we must remember is the true gift of the season: time and affection. Instead of splurging on the trendiest clothes for yourself and your loved ones, consider gifting experiences—like a spa day or a cooking class—that’ll create memories much more valuable than a leopard print skirt
So, as you embark on your holiday shopping spree, be mindful of your purchases. After all, fashion is fabulous, but being mindful and sustainable during Christmas? That’s the real trend we should all be following! Now, go forth and jingle those savings while rocking your unique style – because, at the end of the day, it’s not just about what you are wearing at the tree, but who’s gathered around it!
