Pride Month is coming to a close, but don’t fret, Pride celebrations continue throughout the summer with notable events such as Pride in London and Brighton &amp; Hove Pride still to come. Get ready to celebrate with the ultimate go-to guide for affordable vegan makeup for Pride season. Whether you’re at a parade, a Pride event in your city or out partying with friends, we’ve got everything you need, from sun protection to eye-catching eyeshadows. Let’s find the perfect products for a cruelty-free look! <h2>Protect your skin</h2>Now that the sun has finally arrived in the UK, it’s more important than ever to protect your skin. Don’t miss this step in your routine. Brands such as <a href="https://uk.theinkeylist.com/products/mineral-sunscreen-spf-30" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The INKEY List</a>, <a href="https://www.gruum.com/product/skyda-50spf-5-star-uva-dermatologist-sunscreen-50ml/?utm_source=Google&amp;utm_campaign=Shopping_Ads&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_term=820988&amp;gcid=2733964&amp;gcid=2733964&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=allproducts&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwp6CkBhB_EiwAlQVyxRU8GBlzvFnDJqcCDuq4ffLsLUONe97sa1-bR5nKvC300bDXnkftORoCorsQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">grüum</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://uk.glossier.com/products/invisible-shield" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Glossier</a> offer 50+ SPF that is non-greasy and leaves a matte finish on your skin, ready for your base makeup. <h2>Create a flawless canvas</h2>Primer helps to smooth out imperfections, fine lines, and pores before you put your foundation or concealer on. e.l.f. Cosmetics has a <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/make-up/face/primer/face-primer/elf-power-grip-primer/p/816693?&amp;&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwyqWkBhBMEiwAp2yUFpI2TGFRztW9WgB8FxqalrIMufNGCpWoa-jO6B7rIaWXYw5csQMr4RoCI98QAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Power Grip Primer</a> that blurs your complexion and helps your makeup last longer. For an affordable concealer that blends seamlessly, try the <a href="https://www.elfcosmetics.co.uk/16hr-camo-concealer/300152.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer</a> or the <a href="https://www.boots.com/nyx-professional-makeup-cant-stop-wont-stop-contour-concealer-10259706?cm_mmc=bmm-buk-google-ppc-_-PLAs_HeroCompare-_-Beauty_Nyx-_-UK_Smart_Shopping_Beauty_Nyx&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwyqWkBhBMEiwAp2yUFkes1Q31-QdnujAhwElIr43ScLakRfzgCQdkV0qXYgdN_vN1FKuGjRoCs_QQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Contour Concealer</a>. If you’re looking for full coverage, a long-wear foundation that lasts all day, then try the <a href="https://www.muastore.co.uk/products/mua-pro-base-matte-finish-foundation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pro Base MUA Matte Finish</a> from MUA Makeup Academy or the <a href="https://www.revolutionbeauty.com/uk/en/brands/makeup-revolution/conceal-and-hydrate-foundation-f9/1181617.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwyqWkBhBMEiwAp2yUFs0EcBLP_pUJG_3iBmnmHwfyNEqSl6atHgNXgneDVWus70l9NqzWeRoC34YQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Revolution Conceal &amp; Hydrate</a>, with 50 shades available and impeccable coverage and hydration.&nbsp; If you prefer a lightweight coverage, try the <a href="https://www.boots.com/bareminerals-complexion-rescue-tinted-hydrating-gel-cream-spf-30-10272720" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">bareMinerals BB cream</a>, a fragrance-free, light-weight tinted moisturiser with SPF 30 protection. <h2>Experiment with electrifying eye looks</h2>Make a statement and experiment, whether that’s with eyeshadow, graphic liner, or glitter. All-vegan brand 17. by Boots has a £5 limited edition vibrant eyeshadow palette, <a href="https://www.boots.com/17-eyeshadow-palette-limited-editionbrights-070-10331807" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Brights 070</a> where all the proceeds go to Stonewall. While <a href="https://www.boots.com/nyx-professional-makeup-ultimate-shadow-palette-brights-10223101" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">NYX Ultimate Shadow Palette Brights</a> has a highly pigmented palette with 16 shades for all colours of the rainbow. Alternatively, you can opt for a vegan eyeliner to accentuate and draw attention to your eyes. If you want to experiment with eyeliner colours, patterns and makeup artistry, Glisten Cosmetics is the perfect choice. The <a href="https://www.glistencosmetics.com/products/pride-liner" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pride Palette</a> by Glisten Cosmetics donates 100% of proceeds to an LGBT+ anti-abuse charity, Galop. Their site boasts hundreds of colours to explore, all with vegan ingredients. For a mascara that offers length and definition, try the <a href="https://www.boots.com/elf-lash-it-loud-mascara-black-7g-10291593" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">e.l.f. Lash It Loud Volume Mascara</a> or the <a href="https://barrym.com/products/lash-vegas-2-black?variant=39392430096466&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwp6CkBhB_EiwAlQVyxbyJ36lCciwS_qAhodlWISjv5fd4Rx8gnkgIyiASm2kveL6k88FkwhoC_UcQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lash Vegas Mascara by Barry M</a> - two must-haves for your everyday and going-out makeup bags. If you’re a lash lover, avoid mink lashes and try <a href="https://www.boots.com/beauty/beauty-accessories/eylure-fluttery-light-008-multipack-10276951" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Eylure Flutter Light Lashes</a> or <a href="https://www.boots.com/beauty/beauty-accessories/false-eyelashes/nyx-professional-makeup-jumbo-lash-strip-false-lash-everyday-volume-fringe-glam-10314063" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">NYX Jumbo Lashes</a>, which have a soft, silky quality. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1687552626/Image_1_52_pic_2_2ca0bb0c50.png" alt="Multicoloured vegan makeup pallet">davidfillion/Getty Images <h2>Pucker up!</h2>It’s important to keep your lips hydrated, find a colour that works for you, and remember your lip balm! For those looking for bold and vivid lipsticks, <a href="https://limecrime.com/collections/shop-all-lips" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lime Crime</a> offers liquid lipstick, liners, and gloss in a range of vibrant colours, all cruelty-free and eye-catching. <h2>Add a glow to your cheeks</h2>Whether you prefer a natural flush or a dramatic pop of colour when applying blush, try the all-vegan brand, Milani. <a href="https://www.boots.com/milani-bakedblush-08-corallina-10312363?affwin&amp;cm_mmc=affiliates-_-Shopping%20Directory-_-https%3A%2F%2Fwww.octer.co.uk%2F-_-863943&amp;utm_source=affiliates&amp;utm_medium=Shopping+Directory&amp;utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.octer.co.uk%2F-863943&amp;sv1=affiliate&amp;sv_campaign_id=863943&amp;awc=2041_1686763087_b2376c7194d49edaa84ec769c35fbb7a" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Milani’s Baked Blush</a> has shades that suit all skin tones and desired looks. If you want to accentuate your cheeks and add a glow to your skin, try the <a href="https://www.revolutionbeauty.com/uk/en/makeup/face/highlighter/illuminating-face-and-body-shimmer-highlighter/illuminating-face--body-shimmer-highlighter.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Revolution Face &amp; Body Shimmer Highlighter</a>. Revolution has a diverse range of highlighters for all skin tones; find the perfect match for your desired look. <h2>Make your makeup last!</h2>If you want long-lasting makeup, it’s important to set your makeup, especially when you’re out in the sun, dancing, or out all night. <a href="https://www.urbandecay.co.uk/en_GB/face/makeup-setting-spray/all-nighter-setting-spray/ud803.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray</a> is a vegan, cruelty-free spray that is a make-up artist's go-to and ideal for high-energy events.&nbsp; Alternatively, <a href="https://www.boots.com/elf-makeup-mist-and-set-clear-spray-10256867?cm_mmc=bmm-buk-google-ppc-_-PLAs_HeroCompare-_-Beauty_New_Brands-_-UK_Smart_Shopping_Beauty_New_Brands&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwyqWkBhBMEiwAp2yUFguZVAHWi7PnWZS27B-2sRuyB4iNJ_IlrVYJfy5PCdK3qITiwhumtRoCBRIQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">e.l.f. Cosmetics Mist &amp; Set</a> offers an affordable vegan setting spray that keeps your makeup looking fresh while giving your skin a boost of hydration. It's lightweight and helps set your makeup for a flawless finish. <h2>Add-ons&nbsp;</h2>If you’re looking for cruelty-free tools for your makeup kit, Eco Tools has a range of high-quality, eco-conscious brushes to help you flawlessly apply your looks. A fun idea for a boost of colour is to use the roll-on face paint flags that you can purchase from the <a href="https://gayprideshop.co.uk/collections/lgbt-facepaints" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Gay Pride Shop</a>. There are seven LGBT+ flags that you can easily roll on your face or body and share with your friends. Pride Month is a time to celebrate equality, love, and acceptance. You can show your support for a more humane and sustainable society by using vegan makeup outside of the celebrations. Let your makeup reflect the beauty of diversity, both inside and out, as you experiment with looks, dance with your friends, and revel in the joy of difference. Happy Pride Month! ﻿If you’d like to read more Pride-themed content, why not check out our interview with <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/up-close-and-personal-with-sean-o-callaghan-aka-fat-gay-vegan" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Fat Gay Vegan</a> or <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-do-lgbtqia-and-vegan-movements-overlap-where-do-they-differ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">how do LGBTQIA+ and vegan movements overlap and differ?</a>

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The lowdown on vegan makeup for Pride

When we think of fashion, we think of luxury, runway, or the right combination of clothes that will catch the eye of others. But fashion goes beyond exotic clothing or anything that's trendy. Fashion is simply everything and everywhere around us. That's why today, we need to talk about <a href="https://syssportswear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">SYS</a>, the brand that has created fashion but not for the luxury market. It’s for those of us who like to be active and, either during or after training, want to wear something comfortable, beautiful and sustainable. That's what the British brand SYS has produced in its two years of existence. Clothing aimed at athletes and people who simply love going to the gym or working out at home. The brand has shorts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies etc. in its range for both women and men. Their style is not just for the gym but also truly comfortable clothing that can be worn around town that can make you feel stylish and classy. A lot of sportswear is made to be throwaway fashion but SYS make it their mission to provide an eco-friendly alternative for sportswear, playing their part in helping to ease the carbon footprint that the fashion industry creates. SYS feels that it is their duty to use the most eco and sustainable approach possible, to help ease the carbon footprint created from day-to-day operations but also with a hope to inspire other companies to follow suit. Their criteria for phenomenal products relies on functionality, comfort and sustainability. Their product range allows customers to make conscious purchasing decisions and provides the opportunity for them to become more sustainable than before.&nbsp; The brand believes that the introduction of more forward-thinking ideas for the long term, will help encourage the change in social attitude towards issues such as fast fashion, which desperately needs to be addressed, in order to protect our planet. For every product that is sold, SYS will plant one tree. Our V-Land team has been wearing and loving their clothes and that’s why for us it’s our pleasure and responsibility to recommend SYS to our readers. Also, SYS has branched out into eco-corporate wear as well as sportswear, in an effort to provide employers with an alternate solution to combat climate change and waste accumulation. So, if you are in business and want to invest in sustainable, quality uniforms for you and your team, you can reach out to SYS via their contact page on <a href="https://syssportswear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">their website</a>. If like SYS you want to see a move away from fast fashion check out our article which investigates <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/can-haute-couture-subvert-fast-fashion" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">whether haute couture can subvert fast fashion?</a>

Man and women lying next to each other in the sun on some concrete both wearing the same outfit by SYS Sportswear (grey sweatshirt and black shorts)

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SYS Sportswear: Clothing for the conscious athlete

Vegan beauty is rapidly expanding and improving by the minute. We can be particularly pleased that even more natural fragrance brands are refining their recipes and creating new ones. Whether they've altered their ingredients and packaging or become plastic-free, vegans, and anyone wanting to become more eco-conscious now have more choices than ever with their selection of perfumes. Below are five of our favourite vegan perfume brands, offering cruelty-free high-quality perfumes.&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2 class="ql-align-justify">Ffern&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ffern.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Ffern</a> is a natural fragrance maker based in Somerset and established in 2018. They are organic, vegan and use sustainably sourced natural ingredients. With significant sustainability goals in mind, Ffern aims to be reusable, plastic-free, recycled and recyclable. With a minimalist appearance and using a subtle and soft aesthetic to sell its products, Ffern creates a vegan perfume brand that feels intimate in their description of how each scent smells and what the creators tried to capture.&nbsp; The rare part about Ffern is that they make one new perfume each season, with batches tightly controlled to avoid waste. These perfumes are available after signing up for their exclusive Ffern Ledger, and they are also the first perfume maker to eliminate plastic from its packaging.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Experimental Perfume Club&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/experimentalperfumeclub/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Experimental Perfume Club</a> creates vegan, unisex luxury fragrances commended by Vogue, Elle and Refinery29. Launching in 2016 and based in London, Experimental Perfume Club has a modern feel to its brand and vegan perfumes. EPC has crafted scents to wear alone or designed to be blended to create individual, aromatic fragrances.&nbsp; We love that EPC uses delicate ingredients in all their scents with hints of figs, jasmine, citrus, rose and many more. EPC believes in mindful consumption and only produces what they sell. EPC comes with the ability to create your fragrances in custom workshops and consultations to find your perfect fragrance match. They also offer online <a href="https://experimentalperfumeclub.com/product/free-miniclass/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">mini-classes</a> from their EPC academy to guide you through perfumery, learning about ingredients and understanding their components. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Eden Perfumes</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/eden_perfumes_vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Eden Perfumes</a> are another vegan perfume brand based in the UK, which started in 2013 and is based in Brighton. Made for vegans by vegans, Eden perfumes team are cruelty-free conscious people who believe in compassionate shopping. The sublime part about Eden perfumes is that they make vegan perfume dupes of popular brands at affordable prices. Eden perfumes create fragrances that are suitable for all and aren't scared to shy away from the commercial florals or sweet smells of perfumes. Eden perfumes are IRCA certified and contain no synthetic preservatives.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Floral Street</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/floralstreet_/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Floral Street</a> are a vegan, cruelty-free perfume brand based in London that launched in 2017. Their founder, Michelle Feeny, with experience with The Estee Lauder Companies and Mac Cosmetics, has transformed the brand entirely. Floral Street creates fruity, imaginative scents packed in pretty and inviting packaging. Floral Street has won beauty and sustainability awards with its perfume <a href="https://floralstreet.com/products/wonderland-peony-eau-de-parfum" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">wonderland</a> and is regarded highly by Cosmopolitan. Their packaging is reusable, recyclable or compostable and contains no beeswax in candles.&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2 class="ql-align-justify">Shay &amp; Blue&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/shayandbluelondon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Shay &amp; Blue</a> are a gender-free, vegan and organic perfume brand. With their fun and young slogans and playful colloquialisms, their advertising appeals to everyone. Founded in London in 2012, Shay and Blue have won various awards and are regarded highly by the likes of Vogue for their best scents. Shay &amp; Blue are devotedly plant-based, made with fruit, spices and flowers. They are also on the road towards plastic-free and carbon-zero net-neutral production with their packaging. Shay &amp; Blue offer fragrance consultations to ensure you find your perfect match.&nbsp;

Bottles by vegan perfume brands on a pink background

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5 vegan perfume brands you shouldn’t turn your nose up at

The reasons why people become vegan are as varied and as many as the number of vegans in the world. One thing we all agree on is it’s a lifestyle which everyone tries to live in the most genuine and ethical way.&nbsp; When we talk about veganism or plant-based, the first thing that comes to the mind of non-vegans and even new vegans is “What will I eat if I become vegan?”. Questions like these about food are the most common when we talk to non-vegans, or vegans who have just started their journey.&nbsp; But the more pressing question for those who have been vegan for longer is “How will I take care of my beauty now, since many brands test their products on animals?” and “What are the best vegan products on the beauty market that will bring me the results I want?”. The beauty market is the second largest in the world after the food and beverage market, according to Forbes magazine. For this reason, and as we vegans also want to take care of our body and our skin, we decided to bring to our readers some of the best vegan skincare brands for you to try out this Veganuary. And best of all, these brands are based in the UK and prices are suitable for all budgets. <h2>Luna Skins&nbsp;</h2>The founder of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lunaskins_/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Luna Skins</a>, Luna Seto, has developed a keen interest in homemade beauty remedies and would look on the internet for hours upon hours searching for the best, natural homemade remedies for her skin. Luna products are packed with caffeine and antioxidants; the formula may improve blood circulation, could reduce the appearance of cellulite, and help prevent premature ageing. The ingredients are different to most brands as 85% of Luna Skins products are made from coffee beans that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help beat acne blemishes.&nbsp; Luna Skins have gone on to create several products on the market, all of which have given great results for users and this has been noticed by customers, influencers, beauty magazines, and our V-Land UK team. Luna Skins aim to provide high-quality natural beauty remedies for all skin types. They want to help their customers build confidence by giving that individual glowing, radiant skin. Their products can help with those annoying acne scars, cellulite and stretch marks so that you can feel like the best version of yourself. Luna Skins products are about achieving great-looking skin that glows under the spotlight. They are organic, simple, natural products that have no artificial chemicals, and most importantly are 100% cruelty-free. One of the best vegan skincare brands in our opinion. One of our most liked products is the <a href="https://lunaskins.co.uk/shop/coffee-coconut-oil-face-scrub-100ml/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Coffee &amp; Coconut Oil Face Scrub</a> which left our skin silky-smooth by eliminating impurities from the skin, the results were impressive. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1673032382/Luna_Skins_0659271d25.png" alt="Vegan skincare products by vegan skincare brand - Luna Skins.">Luna Skins <h2>LU Skincare</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/_lu_skincare/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">LU Skincare</a> ensures only the highest-quality ingredients are in their skincare products and could improve the health and appearance of your skin. They cater for all complexions and skin types so wherever you are in the world you can find the one that suits you perfectly. Whatever your skin type is, if you are prone to breakouts or acne, or if you want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and have fully hydrated, clean and healthy skin they can help you achieve the best results. So they have simply followed Mother Nature’s lead by offering natural skincare with honest ingredients. All their products are beautifully blended using the finest oils of argan, coconut, passionflower seed, avocado, evening primrose and more. Combined with other ingredients such as oat silk means they are amazingly smooth and highly nurturing and hydrating to the skin. Many products contain essential oils which further enhance their range with uplifting or soothing properties. They are suitable for vegans and are not tested on animals. We love all their products, especially their <a href="https://laurenceandumehltd.com/product/skin-boosting-moisturiser-and-serum-2-in-1-with-lavender-and-rose-essential-oils/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Goutte de Rosee</a> and <a href="https://laurenceandumehltd.com/product/almond-scented-skin-rejuvenating-night-cream/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Minuit Cream</a>; the former is especially hydrating and nourishing and the latter is our team’s go-to. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1673032493/LU_Skincare_6d7afd650d.png" alt="Tub of pink vegan skincare cream by vegan skincare brand - LU Skincare.">LU Skincare<h2> </h2><h2>Circular Technologies</h2>At <a href="https://www.instagram.com/circulartechnologies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Circular Technologies</a>, they are advocates of sustainable skincare. Sustainable skincare is essentially choosing products that will meet your skin and beauty needs, without harshly impacting the environment or the safety of humans. They have biodynamic gardens where they cultivate several herbs and flowers: such as rose and lavender. From these plants, they produce macerates, hydrolats, extracts and infusions which are used in their formulations. Circular Technologies mission is to create products with as minimal negative impact on the environment, natural world, and yourself as possible - which is why, this year, they have invested in a biomass boiler so the production of their skincare is one step closer to being carbon neutral in line with people targets. Their guide for true sustainability is supporting planet Earth’s ecosystems in all of their diversity. Respect for nature’s systems and how we can harmoniously create within them is at their core, from choosing raw materials to manufacturing, packaging and distribution. The brand remains at all times true to their principles, defining beauty above all, as the joy of nurturing not only your own body, but all expressions of life on this planet, with equal and absolute love and respect.&nbsp; Their <a href="https://www.circulartechnologies.co.uk/product/hand-restore-lotion/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Hand Restore Lotion</a> smells amazing; it is deeply restorative and moisturising, leaving your hands soft. Our team also loved the <a href="https://www.circulartechnologies.co.uk/product/day-hand-soothing-cream/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Day Hand Soothing Cream</a> which kept our hands hydrated all day long - not to mention the smell is wonderful. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1673032620/Circular_Technologies_a6a44155f5.png" alt="Vegan skincare hand cream by vegan skincare brand - Circular Technologies">Circular Technologies

Man massaging vegan skincare products into his face

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Vegan skincare brands you have to try this Veganuary 

Each person has an average of <a href="https://futuretechtrends.co.uk/2022/02/24/theres-a-whopping-26-items-of-clothing-in-the-average-wardrobe-that-are-never-worn-they-could-be-worth-200/?noamp=mobile" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">twenty six items</a> of clothing that have never been worn. Approximately ninety-five per cent of clothes in landfill could have been re-used. Circular Economy Researcher, <a href="https://theecologist.org/2020/jan/13/rise-community-fashion-swaps" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rebecca Clube</a>, highlights that even though fashion retailers are marketing their green strategies and efforts in recycling capabilities, the volumes of garments being produced has not noticeably decreased, so the conflict of the “underlying commercial objective persists: to sell more garments”. Clothes swapping or swishing is an easy way to recycle unwanted garments and revamp your wardrobe sustainably: “swishing works like a giant clothes swap: you bring items you no longer wear and exchange them for something <a href="http://www.getswishing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">new-to-you</a>!” <h2>What do swishers want?</h2>Fashion marketing expert Claudia E Henninger’s [et al.] research found that clothes swapping participants are driven by conscious consumption and “fashionability”, particularly retro trends. Individuals participate “to gain classic and/or traditional pieces of clothing that are seen to be retro and whilst trendy and preppy, do not go in and out of fashion easily.”&nbsp; One participant in the study echoed a common sentiment: “I really like shopping for stuff that’s quite vintage, and it’s hard to find that in the high street… and you feel like you’re doing something good anyway.” <h2>Organise clothes swapping parties</h2>Ever eyed up your bestie’s gold hot pants? Get them to your clothes swapping party and explain that gold won’t go with their Edgar Poe phase. Set the rules and expectations before the party. You may sort the swishers’ clothes behind the scenes and decide on a ticketing system. <a href="http://www.westlondonwaste.gov.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">West London Waste Authority</a> has a dedicated site, <a href="http://www.getswishing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">getswishing.com</a>, which explains the process in detail.&nbsp; You can also keep it local by creating a social media page for your community. Love Your Clothes have a guide to making a <a href="https://www.loveyourclothes.org.uk/guides/sharing-swapping-swishing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">local Facebook group</a>. <h2>Attend swishing events</h2>Informally swapping between friends, family, and neighbours is nothing new. However, more formal community swapping is on the rise, particularly among ethical trend-setting consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp; Chunmin Lang’s research highlights the benefits of this collaborative social-economic model by “sharing the cost of products and reducing the burden of ownership”; helping reduce waste. As well as confirming that consumers who are drawn to swapping score higher in leadership personality traits; their want for uniqueness equates with being “more open to new ideas, in an effort to differentiate from others.”&nbsp;Keep an eye out for events with <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/clothes-swap/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Eventbrite</a>. <h2>Digital swish</h2>Consider apps and websites if you’re finding swapping in person inaccessible. The clothes swapping app, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/untaggedfashion/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Untagged</a> expands your choice as you can swap with people outside your neighbourhood. “Instead of cash, your no-longer-loved clothing becomes the currency for buying something new-to-you.” <a href="https://www.dontshopswap.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Don’t Shop, Swap</a> specialise in high-quality, vintage &amp; designer brands. Your unwanted clothes turn into swap coins you can spend.&nbsp; <h2>How not to swish&nbsp;</h2>Being a conscientious clothes swapper is key to fueling this circular fashion model. Henninger found that participants of events in the UK often had negative experiences such as lack of sizing, damaged and unwashed clothes, which put them off from returning. Interestingly, participants in Finland indicated that swap shop garments were of good quality, and the reasons for swapping were they no longer fitted, were unwanted presents or were worn for a one-off occasion.&nbsp; So, to be a pro swapper, check that your items are clean and wearable. Additionally, good-quality items will encourage more people to become part of the community of swappers, which in turn should diversify sizing. You could also sign up to <a href="http://www.instagram.com/oxfamgb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Oxfam’s</a> <a href="https://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved/second-hand-september/?pscid=ps_ggl_gr_Google+Grants+-+Communications+-+Brand+-+DSA_Whole+Site&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw3qGYBhBSEiwAcnTRLmCCferp5ljYIpNZypml1iAP0-2K9sa2uKylCNgZolJygYOMLZXZ4hoCdSwQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">#SecondHandSeptember campaign</a> and go that extra mile to commit to sustainable shopping as a whole, not just our wardrobes. For vintage and slow fashion brands check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/slow-fashion-for-your-summer-wardrobe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">slow fashion for your summer wardrobe</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/fashion-doesnt-need-to-cost-the-earth-exploring-ethical-vintage-clothing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">fashion doesn’t need to cost the Earth: exploring ethical vintage clothing</a>.

pile of multicoloured folders sweaters, a pink small backpack and shoes with a sign that says “Clothes Swap Today” in the centre in front of a white background

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Forget crypto: Clothes swapping is the new currency

According to a recent study, there’s a “spiralling demand for cruelty-free and vegan” cosmetics. “Clean Beauty” trends&nbsp;demand vegan and cruelty-free makeup. 100% vegan makeup brands don’t use any animal-derived ingredients or by-products, but vegan labelling doesn’t automatically mean certified organic, ethically-sourced, fair trade, or toxin free. Cruelty-free equates to not conducting tests on animals, not using ingredients tested on animals, and not outsourcing cruelty to third parties. It’s best to check that brands are <a href="https://www.treehugger.com/cruelty-free-certifications-5204677#:~:text=The%20Leaping%20Bunny%20certification%20is%20probably%20the%20most,non-U.S.%20and%20Canadian%20companies%20is%20Cruelty%20Free%20International." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">certified</a>, and it’s worth considering that some vegan companies have parent companies that are not certified cruelty-free. Sustainability is also a factor, but finding brands with these attributes can feel like searching for an honest politician.&nbsp; Here are some vegan, cruelty-free and sustainable essentials for your travelbag!*&nbsp;&nbsp; <h2>Foundations and concealers</h2>Gone are the days of anxiously covering up perceived imperfection with slabs of paste or <a href="https://theconversation.com/dying-for-makeup-lead-cosmetics-poisoned-18th-century-european-socialites-in-search-of-whiter-skin-176237" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">lead</a>. Even the fashion industry has glamorised acne with “<a href="https://fashionmagazine.com/beauty-grooming/acne-acceptance-beauty-industry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Beauty ‘mishaps’ being repurposed as runway trends</a>.” If you do fancy facial nakedness, remember to use sun protection. Makeup that contains SPF is no substitute for using a dedicated suncream. <a href="https://instagram.com/greenpeopleuk?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Green People</a> have a comprehensive suncream collection.&nbsp; Regarding foundations and concealers, not only are vegan and cruelty-free makeup brands important but so are inclusive brands: <a href="https://www.treehugger.com/elf-cosmetics-cruelty-free-5248542" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">e.l.f Cosmetics</a>' <a href="https://www.elfcosmetics.co.uk/flawless-satin-foundation/300061.html?dwvar_300061_color=Bisque%20(Previously%20Natural)&amp;cgid=#start=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Flawless Satin Foundation</a> has 39 shades. And if you need a bit of staying power for that all-nighter, try their <a href="https://www.elfcosmetics.co.uk/16hr-camo-concealer/300152.html?dwvar_300152_color=Light%20Sand&amp;cgid=#start=2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">16HR Camo Concealer</a>. <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product-category/makeup/foundations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Peace with the Wild</a> stocks ethical beauty products, including numerous foundations and concealers. If your skin needs extra prepping based on skin type, such as mature, acne, or sensitive, <a href="https://www.wearthlondon.com/skin-concern" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">WearthLondon</a> has a comprehensive range of creams, facial oils and balms. <h2>Blusher&nbsp;</h2>Ever feel a bit flat? A little blusher can make your face freshly pop. Cruelty-free brand <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciatelondon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Ciate London</a> has created a glass-like balm, <a href="https://www.ciatelondon.com/collections/dewy-collection/products/dewy-blush" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dewy Blush</a>, which has reached cult status.&nbsp; Or if you want something more muted, check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zaomakeup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">ZAO</a>’s eco compact and refillable blushers in <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/zao-compact-blush-brown-pink-322/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Brown-Pink 322</a> and <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/zao-compact-blush-golden-coral-325/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Golden Coral 325</a>. <h2>Eyeshadow</h2>There are many preferences for eye makeup. If you’re after some richly pigmented “impossibly sensuous textures” <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/mineral-eyeshadow-bolds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Love the Planet’s eyeshadows</a> come in individual pots for carrying ease. For versatility, <a href="https://odylique.com/organic-eye-shadow-gold.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Odylique’s Organic Mineral Eyeshadow in gold</a> is a must-have eyeshadow to brighten eyes, especially when combined with smoky tones for glamour, and doubles as a highlighter to sweep over cheekbones. Also suitable for sensitive skin and includes organic plant oils which take care of delicate skin around the eyes.&nbsp; If you yearn for variety, makeup artist Jamie Genevieve has developed VIEVE’s extensive collection of eye makeup. <a href="https://www.vieve.co.uk/vieve-muse-palette" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Muse Eyeshadow Palette</a> covers ethereal shimmers, delicate base shades, romantic reds and smoky hues.&nbsp; <h2>Mascara</h2>For product innovation and robustness for travelling, <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product-brands/bain-savon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Bain &amp; Savon</a>'s <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/bain-and-savon-mascara-cake/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mascara Cake</a> can be used as “both a lash colour or eyeliner, perfect for those who have sensitive eyes”, and comes in a handy recyclable tin. If you want a traditional mascara wand, open your eyes with <a href="https://dirtyhippiecosmetics.com.au/listing/594672581/lengthening-mineral-mascara-toxin-free" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dirty Hippy's Lengthening</a><a href="https://dirtyhippiecosmetics.com.au/listing/594672581/lengthening-mineral-mascara-toxin-free" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://dirtyhippiecosmetics.com.au/listing/594672581/lengthening-mineral-mascara-toxin-free" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mineral Mascara</a> which nourishes your lashes with lavender and Jojoba Oil. <h2>Red lipstick</h2>A vibrant red lipstick smacks of iconic confidence. For holiday nights out or playful pouts while visiting your local library. It’s often hard to find vegan lipsticks as many use beeswax, but brands such as <a href="http://www.instagram.com/lilylolouk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lily Lolo</a> prove it is possible with their &nbsp;<a href="https://www.lilylolo.co.uk/vegan-lipstick/?sku=VLS-UN?setCurrencyId=1&amp;msclkid=910b4929fc14189c28c32bf36d43545f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Lipstick</a> range including the intensely red shade, <a href="https://www.lilylolo.co.uk/vegan-lipstick/?sku=VLS-UN?setCurrencyId=1&amp;msclkid=910b4929fc14189c28c32bf36d43545f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Flirtation</a>. For everyday deliciousness, try the coffee caramel hues of <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/organic-sweetness-lip-tint-10g/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Organic Sweetness Lip Tint</a> by <a href="http://www.instagram.com/NirvanaNatural" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Nirvana Natural</a>. If you want to save room in your makeup travel bag or forget your blush, a good lippy can double as a smudge of rouge across your cheekbones. <h2>Eyebrows</h2>Enhance the underrated caterpillars above your eyes to frame your face. Vegan makeup brands have excelled in taking your brows to Frieda perfection - from pencils to powders. A go-to for the makeup travel bag is e.l.f Cosmetics’ <a href="https://www.elfcosmetics.co.uk/ultra-precise-brow-pencil/200156.html?dwvar_200156_color=Neutral%20Brown&amp;cgid=#start=6&amp;sz=24" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Ultra Precise Brow Pencil</a>. Smudge-proof and comes with a spoolie. This creamy consistency makes it easy to manipulate brows - puffing them out for some drama or utilising the preciseness for neatening.&nbsp; <h2>Bonus</h2>If you couldn't get Glastonbury tickets and have decided to camp in your grandmother’s garden, then you may need a bit of sparkle with eco-friendly <a href="https://wildglitter.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wild Glitter</a>. *always check products as ingredients and brand ethoses are subject to change.

a variety of make up brushes, lipsticks, foundations etc. on a white background 

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Vegan and cruelty-free makeup for your travel bag

Ready to update your summer wardrobe but worried about fast fashion’s impact on our environment? Slow fashion brands might just be the answer to your moral dilemmas.&nbsp; <h2>But what is slow fashion?&nbsp;</h2>The slow fashion movement creates more sustainable garments by slowing down our consumption, respecting people, animals and the environment by ensuring that waste is reduced by making clothing in small batches with recycled and recyclable materials; saving materials from landfill. Slow fashion ensures that garment workers are paid a fair wage in a safe environment. When buying from slow fashion brands you are almost guaranteed to pick up a higher quality item due to the time spent on creating a handmade piece.&nbsp; Here are five eco-friendly and fun slow fashion brands that have sustainability at their heart. <h2>Sew Wasted</h2>We love <a href="https://instagram.com/sewwasted?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sew Wasted's</a> collection of made-to-order dresses. Founded by Elysha from Manchester who makes all <a href="https://sewwasted.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sew Wasted's</a> unique pieces. She started by making herself a couple of tartan dresses - the businesses's signature look - during lockdown and was inundated with messages asking whether she was going to sell them. Describing her slow fashion collection as "whimsical'' Elysha is definitely not afraid to play with patterns and patchwork design. Browse funky patterned dresses and more on her <a href="https://sewwasted.com/collections/all" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">website</a>. <h2>Joanie</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/joanieclothing?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Joanie</a> makes nostalgic and feminine vintage style dresses. Founded in 2016, their easy-to-wear retro prints are available in sizes 8-22. They are named after their designer’s Great Aunt Joanie who "enjoyed nothing more than curling up with a good book and a cup of tea" which we think is something most of us can relate to. There's something very wholesome about <a href="https://joanieclothing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Joanie</a>, and we love their ethics.&nbsp; As a sustainable business that focuses on slow fashion, they pride themselves in creating good quality, exclusive garments. They limit their production runs so that they limit waste and clothing doesn't end up in landfill. Joanie have recently released a collection with <a href="https://instagram.com/hotpatooties?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dawn O'Porter</a>, British writer, TV presenter and director. Dawn is known for her love of vintage clothing and retro style. This limited collection of ten 70s inspired dresses are all named after Dawn's favourite cocktails. Shop the collection <a href="https://joanieclothing.com/dawn-oporter-x-joanie" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a>. <h2>The Hippie Shake</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/thehippieshake?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Hippie Shake</a> are a 70s-inspired slow fashion and vintage online store, the owners sold vintage clothing and decided to design their own collections to create "living, breathing, wearable art". We'd say they succeeded in their mission! Their beautifully embroidered, floaty, layered and flared collections are absolutely dreamy. <a href="https://www.thehippieshake.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Hippie Shake</a> travel to meet their suppliers in China and India once a year to ensure that working conditions are safe, that workers are fairly paid and that no exploitation takes place. They do not apply fast fashion pressure to their suppliers and they continually work towards using more sustainable fabrics in their garments, although 50% of their Heroes collection is already made from recycled or organic fabrics.&nbsp; The Hippie Shake are an influencer favourite as seen on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYj3207IB02/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Florence Given</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CGiE_I_gcep/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Amy Valentine</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce39Mcsoyb5/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Maddie Close</a>. Check out their latest collection <a href="https://www.thehippieshake.co.uk/collections/rising-of-the-moon" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a>. <h2>Love Your Look</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/loveurlookclothing?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Love Your Look</a> clothing are the queens of wacky, colourful sprints and fun, flattering designs. The brand "unashamedly embraces female empowerment and inclusiveness." Owner and designer Ronke visits their factories in India twice a year to ensure ethical treatment of their garment makers and she purchases surplus fabrics to make dresses and jumpsuits, saving fabric from landfill. Shop playful and sparkly prints <a href="https://loveurlook.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a>. <h2>Onjenu&nbsp;</h2>Independent slow fashion brand <a href="https://instagram.com/onjenu?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Onjenu</a> creates elegant and fun limited collections in vintage-inspired prints. In 2019 they decided that their new goal was to plant a forest. They started planting one tree for every item sold in their online store through <a href="https://instagram.com/onetreeplanted?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">One Tree Planted</a>, a non-profit organisation driven towards global reforestation. Browse Onjenu's summer arrivals <a href="https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.onjenu.com%2F&amp;e=ATNfGuuNvHOUYEFgQtVlVQ_vS3aiOe_khxZHbS6gyWZio6-rTgIZWBE9CG9H3B7LexeZQwbobTopUXG-k-U5RA&amp;s=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a>. Shopping with a conscience has never been so easy! You can find slow fashion brands to suit every style. Check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/organski-planet-friendly-fashion-forward-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Organski</a> for more sustainable fashion inspiration, and find out whether <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/can-haute-couture-subvert-fast-fashion" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">haute couture can subvert fast fashion</a>.

Women in floral dress sitting on cupboard next to a tree with a wooden wall behind her

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Slow fashion for your summer wardrobe 

Brands are marketing vegan shoe ranges in light of consumers wanting ethical products, but is that enough?&nbsp; Shoes comprise one-tenth of the revenue of the fashion industry and, according to <a href="https://www.greensole.com/blog/the-case-for-sustainable-shoes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(102, 185, 102); background-color: transparent;">Greensole</a>, account for a “tremendous one-fifth of the industry's environmental impact. Twenty million shoes are manufactured annually around the world.” Capitalising on the term “vegan” doesn’t mean a product is sustainable. Often these shoes contain plastics and other harmfully sourced materials that have a negative environmental impact. “Fake leather” usually means synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are used. PVC emits toxic pollutants.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">My guilty purchase?&nbsp;</h2>Last November, I bought some vegan Dr. Martens (DMs) boots because in my leather-purchasing days, I equated Dr. Marten with long-lasting quality; however, it was only after purchasing these that I worried about the environmental impact of manufacturing that these shoes had already caused.&nbsp; I got swept up in the frenzy of being able to buy a brand I have always liked as a vegan. DM’s use PVC but Dr. Martens’ Strategic Sustainability <a href="https://www.drmartensplc.com/application/files/9216/2506/1932/Dr._Martens_plc_Sustainability_Report.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Report</a> commits to removing fossil-based products by 2030. Currently regrounding PVC waste and putting it “back into the production” of outsoles and partnering with “a local wellies and jelly sandals manufacturer, which recycles our PVC manufacturing waste into new footwear.”&nbsp; Ideally, they would already be fully sustainable and we’d all buy everything second-hand, but let’s be realistic, most of us won’t anytime soon. If that were the case, most brands wouldn’t exist today.&nbsp; So, can big brands transform? Take Burger King as an example; a few years ago, the idea that this enormous meat machine would transform their flagship <a href="https://v-land.co.uk/burger-kings-leicester-square-restaurant-goes-fully-vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Leicester Square branch</a> into a vegan-only food establishment would have been unfathomable. Yet, they have successfully done so. When acquiring my new boots, excitement filled me: my old “retail therapy” habits lit up my serotonin pathways, and I ignored that this brand still uses leather - why wasn’t I buying a fully vegan brand? Additionally, I’d committed to buying second-hand clothes, and now the deep-rooted carnage of “treat yourself” engulfed me. Am I wishfully thinking that my plant-based purchase can influence a brand into going fully vegan and sustainable? Am I hoping this will absolve me from some guilt? Please, Dr. Martens, help this human out and go fully vegan! Hopefully, you’re not as flawed as me, but if you are human, let’s transmute some guilt into exploring some options… <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Investment pieces&nbsp;</h2>Many sustainable / upcycled vegan shoes are not particularly cheap to buy; however, fast fashion is costing our planet its precious resources, destroying wildlife that inhabits delicate ecosystems and eroding the health and human rights of people working in factories across the world.&nbsp; To consume ethically, if you can afford to do so, consider buying less by investing in quality products that are durable and versatile for everyday wear. If you’re fashion-conscious, you’ll already know that no one cool wears flimsy heels anymore. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Vegan and sustainable shoes&nbsp;</h2>I wish I had a long list of fully sustainable, vegan, ethical shoe companies, but it appears to be early days. More prominent brands are beginning to enhance and produce vegan and eco-friendly lines, which, if the demand is strong enough, could encourage them to go fully vegan.&nbsp; Here are a few lines to check out:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/trashplanetofficial/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Trash Planet</a>: lead the way with über fun unisex vegan sneakers, all made from recycled post-consumer fabrics, including ocean plastics. To reduce their carbon footprint only locally sourced materials are acquired. Plus they plant 15 trees for every Trash Planet footwear purchased.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mattandnat/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Matt &amp; Nat</a>: vegan leather that “looks and feels just like real leather”. The name stands for Material + Nature. Made from vegan and sustainable materials. Their faux leather is made from PU, arguably a more eco-friendly version than PVC.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vivobarefoot/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Vivobarefoot</a>: vegan collection uses plastic bottles into high performance, durable shoes, aiming to “reconnect people to the natural world” by designing minimalist footwear that “improves balance and stability”. Claiming that their “plant-based shoes are the least petroleum-reliant performance shoes on the market.” <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drmartensofficial/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Dr. Martens</a>: vegan range has “kept all of the attitude” of the originals. Tough, durable, and recognises that they are “still evolving”. I must admit, I do love my Vegan Sinclair Platform boots - perfect for stomping into the distant future…&nbsp; Let us know your favourite sustainable plant-based footwear brand over on our <a href="http://www.instagram.com/vlanduk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(102, 185, 102); background-color: transparent;">Instagram</a>, and for more sustainable fashion choices, check out five eco-friendly alternatives to leather <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-plant-leather-alternatives-for-vegans-and-environmentalists" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">here</a>.

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How sustainable are vegan shoes? My guilty purchase

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Can haute couture subvert fast fashion?

The 90s are now officially classed as vintage. We couldn’t believe it either! Clothing over twenty years old is considered to be officially vintage. Think&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/seinfeldtv?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Seinfeld</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://m.facebook.com/friends.tv/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Friends</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/sbtbnow?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Saved By the Bell</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fresh_Prince_of_Bel-Air" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">The Fresh Prince of Bel Air</a>, to some of us it feels like only yesterday that these shows launched the careers of some of our favourite style icons, but now those old 90s fashion pieces you’ve had in storage all these years might just be worth something! Vintage shops and thrift stores have been popular places to pick up a quirky outfit and a good bargain for decades. In recent years platforms such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.depop.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Depop</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vinted.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(102, 185, 102); background-color: transparent;">Vinted</a>&nbsp;have exploded onto the scene and redefined thrift shopping. Where once we would spend our weekends pawing through rails to find the perfect ethical vintage clothing pieces, now we can find them with a quick search, usually at even cheaper prices. Depop and Vinted are online marketplaces where users can sell their used and / or vintage clothing online, accessories and more. Depop is incredibly popular, founded in 2011 they now have over thirty million registered users, four million active users making $70 million in revenue in 2020. Vintage and second-hand clothing is big business, but is it better for our planet? When we look at how clothing is produced, and how harmful fast fashion is to the environment, it’s clear that the trend of buying and swapping vintage and second-hand clothing online and in stores is the more ethical option. It prevents what we call ‘throwaway fashion’ where people purchase cheap items to wear a small number of times and then they end up in landfill. Buying second-hand and reworked clothing is a great way to recycle old garments. Fast fashion accounts for 10% of all carbon emissions in the world, let that sink in.&nbsp;10% of all carbon emissions come from cheaply making and transporting approximately one hundred and fifty billion clothing items every year. Since 2000, the fast fashion industry has doubled the number of garments they’re producing. Not only increasing carbon emissions but increasing textile waste and wasting water, one cotton t-shirt requires 2,700 liters of water to make – it would take the average person over two years to drink that much water! Dying and treating fabrics also releases chemicals into waterways which causes public health hazards. Imagine for a moment the shocking conditions that somebody must be working in, not just due to exposure to these chemicals but long working hours, low pay and often exploitative child labour and forced labour that make a £10 Primark top or a £20 ASOS dress possible. Many of us who are privileged enough to enjoy browsing online for clothing we love, are already shopping with a conscience by choosing to spend that bit more on independent slow fashion brands or buying vintage clothing store and second-hand ethical vintage style clothing pieces. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1661803337/Image_1_99_73e74af0b2.png" alt="Man with long hair, sunglasses and hat with a multicolour print shirt in front of a wall with graffiti"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/redandblueumbrella/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(102, 185, 102); background-color: transparent;">Red &amp; Blue Umbrella</a> Quality vintage and slow fashion pieces are undeniably more expensive than thrifting, but with good reason. Vintage pieces offer our favourite brands and designers at a much lower price than a piece would be new, but you’re still investing in a high-quality piece which is much more durable than less expensive fast fashion pieces, you may also come across very rare and unusual pieces that you can’t find elsewhere. Vintage clothing was made to last so is usually more durable. Slow fashion brands make in small batches, paying staff a fair wage and sourcing materials ethically which inevitably adds to the price, but reduces impact on the environment and improves working conditions. With second-hand shopping, you never know where the perfect bargain may be found, from online marketplaces such as&nbsp;<a href="https://en-gb.facebook.com/login/?next=%2Fmarketplace%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Facebook Marketplace</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ebay.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Ebay</a>, to scouring your local car boot sale or charity shop, eco-friendly shopping options are now widely available and a quality vintage piece may be hiding where you least expect to find one. For those that struggle with the idea of wearing second-hand clothing, a new wave of eco-conscious retailers are becoming available, which is showing promise that in modern-day society businesses care about how their products are made, and the long-lasting effects fashion can have on the planet. Vegan apparel brand&nbsp;<a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/ochi-eyes-on-fashion-and-the-ocean" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Ochi</a>, make clothes from 100% organic and recycled material and remove 1kg of plastic from the ocean per purchase on their website via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/cleanhub.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">Cleanhub</a>, and many brands are using&nbsp;<a href="https://v-land.co.uk/5-plant-leather-alternatives-for-vegans-environmentalists/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 185, 102);">plant-leather alternatives</a>&nbsp;which are less harmful to the planet. Whilst the above gives hope for the future of fashion, re-using what is already available will always be the most eco-friendly fashion trend, that thankfully, is becoming more mainstream by the day. Wearing ethical vintage clothing is the perfect way to put together a unique outfit, blending different decades and styles to create a look that is truly one of a kind, proving that fashion doesn’t need to cost the earth. For more information and insight on fashion check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/fashion-and-beauty" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">fashion &amp; beauty</a> section.

Woman in red shirt smiling and looking down, she is standing in front of  a blue graffiti wall