CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

When we hear “community action”, we often think of village halls, parish councils and tight-knit rural groups. When you think about it, there are so many more examples of communities. Take students, for example; In recent years, the UK’s student population has hit as high as 2.90 million in higher education. There are entire neighbourhoods of student apartments in London, Bristol, Manchester and more, forming pockets of tight-knit, environmentally aware micro-communities. Collectively, communities, like these are a huge, country-wide demographic in its own right.

This leads to an important question: what can groups do, as a community, to help the environment? One surprisingly powerful area of change may be hidden away in their wardrobes. Or floordrobes, we’re not here to judge.

Sadly, the global fashion industry is a hefty polluter, contributing roughly 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of wastewater. Given that it produces more greenhouse gases than international flights and maritime shipping combined, it’s no surprise that the fashion industry is under growing pressure to clean up its act. This information may come as a shock, but for style-savvy this serves as a wake-up call – and a chance to make better choices when it comes to what we wear.

Sustainable fashion isn’t a fringe movement any more, but a status symbol and badge of honour. Being stylish and sustainable is the new gold standard, and whether you’re dressing for clubbing or chilling at home, here are some practical tips for building a wardrobe that’s both chic and climate-conscious.

Most of us have fallen into the trap of buying an outfit for a single occasion – only for it to vanish into the depths of our wardrobe, rarely (if ever) worn again. The truth is, special occasions don’t always call for permanent purchases. Platforms like HURR, By Rotation, and My Wardrobe HQ offer individuals access to high-end looks, without the financial or environmental costs.

These services operate on a circular fashion model, which helps reduce demand for new garments and extend the lifecycle of existing ones. With curated designer options and next-day delivery, the rental economy makes it easier than ever to wear the brands you love – sustainably.

Some people love the thrill of a charity shop rummage. Others? Not so much. But the truth is, vintage, or new to you, and second-hand fashion outlets are a treasure trove for statement pieces and individuality. Whether you’re after 90s denim or a classic Burberry trench, platforms like Vestiaire Collective, Depop, and Vinted offer access to luxury fashion with significantly lower environmental impact.

Buying second-hand keeps clothes out of landfill, slashes emissions, and gives you something no one else on is likely to have. A win-win-win!

Fast fashion might feel like the cheaper option upfront, but long term, it’s not doing your wallet — or the environment — any favours. Instead, invest in timeless wardrobe staples that will actually last – think neutral cashmere knits, well-tailored trousers, or an iconic coat that will last across seasons.

Luxury brands are increasingly leading this shift. For instance, Stella McCartney’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection was made with 92% responsible materials, including grape and mushroom-based leathers – both cutting-edge innovations in sustainable textiles.

Sustainability has become a bit of a buzzword in recent years, but sadly, not all “sustainable” claims are created equally. Look for independently verified certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), which ensures organic fibres and fair labour. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 guarantees your fabrics have been tested for harmful substances, while a B Corp accreditation indicates a brand meets rigorous standards for social and environmental impact.

Stylish brands like Patagonia are setting new benchmarks for eco-conscious luxury – and it’s worth knowing what the values are of the brands you’re buying from.

We’ve only covered a few of the certifications that you might see while you’re out in the Wild West of Wardrobes, but a little research will help you support the causes you care about.

Some designers are completely rethinking what fashion can – and perhaps should – be seen as. For example, PANGAIA (which translates from Greek to “all the Earth”) conducts research and development of sustainable materials in Florence, Italy. They’re perhaps best known for their use of materials like plant-based denim and grape leather.

VEJA, on the other hand, offers stylish trainers made from organic cotton, natural rubber and recycled plastic bottles. Mara Hoffman prioritises regenerative organic cotton, which improves soil health and carbon drawdown, while Reformation produces limited-run fashion with transparency on water use and carbon emissions.

These brands, and many more, combine innovation, transparency, and timeless design – making them firm favourites among those who care as much about the planet as their presentation. They don’t just make clothes that look good – they’re doing good at the same time.

Remember, there’s something kind of cool about being able to tell someone your outfit used to be a bottle of your favourite soft drink – it’s certainly a strong conversation-starter!

In many ways, your wardrobe is its own little ecosystem. If something no longer sparks joy (or just doesn’t fit), move it on before bringing new pieces in. It’s better than hoarding – and definitely better than binning items altogether. We’ve already mentioned platforms like Vinted and Depop as great places to buy clothes, but as you’d expect, they’re also ideal for reselling.

You can also organise swap parties with workmates or friends- not only is this good for the environment, but it could be great for your social life too!

If you’re feeling a little more charitable, you can donate items to charity shops that support textile recycling, or even use apps like Nuw, which promote clothes-swapping and community sustainability.

When clothes shopping, an item’s fit and feel may be the main concerns you have, but if you want to start a more eco-friendly wardrobe, it starts with a few simple questions.

Before your next purchase, ask yourself the following:

• Can I rent this instead of buying it?
• Is this made to last?
• Does the brand meet certified ethical standards?
• Am I supporting a designer committed to change?
• Would I be willing and able to sell, swap or donate this if I no longer needed it?

If you find yourself saying no more than yes… maybe find something else.

At its heart, sustainable fashion is a celebration of creativity, consciousness, and forward thinking. More than that, it’s about doing better – for yourself, for the planet, and for the people making your clothes. Shopping with the environment in mind is creative, expressive, and empowering, and for students juggling budgets, big dreams, and busy calendars  it’s proof that elegance, style and bold statement outfits doesn’t have to cost an arm, leg or indeed, the earth.

When two heavyweights from opposite sides of the Atlantic team up, you pay attention. And when that link-up involves Champion — the undisputed godfather of American sportswear — and Duke’s Cupboard — London’s cult vintage hub turned street style institution — what you get isn’t just another capsule. It’s a cultural moment. A meeting of minds, fabrics, and basketball dreams.

The Champion x Duke’s Cupboard limited-edition collection is exactly that: a reverent nod to ‘90s court style, community-rooted storytelling, and the undeniable power of vintage. It doesn’t just wear like nostalgia; it feels like a reissue of a memory you forgot you had.

Duke’s Cupboard has long been a treasure trove for vintage heads, stylists, and anyone with a discerning eye for that perfectly faded tee or era-authentic windbreaker. What started as a streetwear stall in Soho quickly evolved into a cultural fixture — and Champion noticed.

This collection celebrates that journey. Think heavyweight jersey hoodies in collegiate cuts, mesh shorts that echo Rucker Park summers, and tonal tees that look like they’ve been aged under the right sun for 20 years. Everything is co-branded but subtle — a nod, not a shout.

And yet, beneath the seams, there’s something deeper going on here.

What sets this collab apart isn’t just the look — it’s the why. Duke’s and Champion both understand the importance of community. Basketball isn’t just a sport; it’s a connector. It links generations, cities, even continents. This capsule was made with that spirit in mind.

Shot on location with members of the Duke’s community, the campaign oozes authenticity. There’s no forced hype here — just people who genuinely live and breathe the culture. From London’s inner courts to NYC’s playground legends, this collection sits in the sweet spot where heritage and now collide.

So what can you expect if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a piece? Boxy silhouettes that don’t compromise on comfort. Garments that hang right whether you’re layering for the gram or just running to the corner shop. And materials that feel like they’ve been worn-in — without the wait.

But make no mistake: this is limited. And in the best way. No mass drops. No endless restocks. Just one focused capsule that hits harder because it’s fleeting.

In a world oversaturated with collabs for clout’s sake, Champion x Duke’s Cupboard feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s thoughtful. Rooted. And stylish as hell.

Because sometimes, the best way to move forward is to honour where you’ve come from.

With Summer 2025 being dubbed The Summer of OASID and all being dominated with all things Gallagher, there is a serious buzz around the world about the OASIS tour. We caught up with multi award winning men’s hairdresser, Jim Shaw, to discuss a trend that’s certain to make a comeback as the tour creeps closer – the Oasis inspired Mod Haircut. 

Originating in the 1950s/60s and taking inspiration from Liam Gallagher’s 90’s hairstyle with that OASIS rock and roll feel, the mod cut is characterised by a medium length on top with volume, a short, cropped fringe and medium length sides that almost resemble long sideburns. The look is structured and combines layering techniques and shapes to create movement within the hair whilst keeping a straight, precise line on the top of the head. 

This cut is a versatile style that can be tailored to suit most face shapes and hair textures, including those with curly hair, however, it is particularly flattering for those with square face shapes, as it helps to soften any angular features whilst complimenting the jawline and cheekbones for a more balanced look. For oval face shapes, this look is also great as it can enhance natural proportions whilst framing the face.

For those with thinning hair, this style is particularly beneficial as the addition of lots of layers and texture work to give the appearance of thicker, fuller looking hair.

“When I create this cut, following using scissors to cut the style, I love to go into the hair with a razor to create a feathery texture and lots of movement.  

When it comes to styling, the mod haircut can be styled a variety of ways. However, it stands out from other mullet/shag inspired looks by featuring more precision within the cut and smooth styling. American Crew Cream Whip is a lovely product to use to slightly enhance the texture within the hair whilst keeping it smooth, soft and moisturised with a natural shine. 

The wolf cut is a similar style to the Mod Haircut and has been a favoured style by men over the past year. This style also features volume on top with texture and layering; however, it features more of a choppy fringe, and the styling is a lot more effortless and untamed. A product like the American Crew Light Hold Texture Lotion can be used in damp hair before styling or on dry hair to give the hair added texture and grit or alternatively American Crew Matte Clay Medium to Strong Hold Styling Paste is one of my go to’s to create instant texture and hold on the finished look. 

Both styles are great options for men who like a more effortless day to day style that requires little to no styling but still want to look incredibly on trend.”

As soccer, sorry Football, continues its rapid rise, finally, in the US of A, NFL and Fanatics are proud to debut a bold, culture-blending initiative: the NFL Football x Football Collection. This unique range sees all 32 NFL clubs paying homage to proper football with fan tops inspired by classic soccer designs of the past.

Fanatics, for those unaware of them, is a leading global digital sports platform.Igniting the passions of global sports fans and maximize the presence and reach for hundreds of sports partners globally by offering products and services across Fanatics Commerce, Fanatics Collectibles, and Fanatics Betting & Gaming, allowing sports fans to Buy, Collect, and Bet. Through the Fanatics platform, sports fans can buy licensed fan gear, jerseys, lifestyle and streetwear products, headwear, and hardgoods; collect physical and digital trading cards, sports memorabilia, and other digital assets; as the company builds its Sportsbook and iGaming platform.

This release will debut exclusively at Fanatics Fest NYC – a 3-day fan festival that connects fans with the biggest athletes, leagues, and sports brands in the world – held June 20-22 at the Javits Center in New York City. The collection brings global soccer culture to the heart of the American sports landscape.

Each of the 32 fan tops has been meticulously designed, with bespoke detailing that speaks directly to the identity, history, and spirit of every NFL club. The collection was developed by a global design team based across Europe, South America and the U.S., combining deep expertise in soccer culture and NFL heritage. This unique collaboration ensured each fan top pays homage to the traditions and identities of both sports.

First worn by 19th-century French sailors —a pattern chosen so they’d be easier to spot if they fell overboard. Later picked up by artists rebels and minimalists. A uniform for those who prefer quiet impact. Sheep inc keeps the design. Rewrites the fabric. Crafted from superfine regenerative Merino.Light. Breathable. Odour-resistant.Soft enough to forget. Strong enough to remember.Subtle stripe. Sharp silhouette. No noise. Just structure.

From sea to street, Sheep inc keeps the design, but rewrites the fabric, in Merino. Merino’s moisture-wicking superpowers soak up 30% of its weight in moisture and still feel dry. Keeping you fresh all day long.

Naturally anti-bacterial, our Merino fibres prevent odour build-up by locking in moisture and repelling bacteria. Stay odour-free, even after multiple wears, without the need for constant washing—a must for sustainable and low-impact living.

Your personal climate control system, powered by nature. Our Merino wool works like magic—the wool’s natural crimp structure creates insulating air pockets, making it an expert in temperature regulation, no matter the season. Think of it as nature’s A/C, no thermostat required.

At Sheep Inc, each knitwear piece tells a story, starting with a single thread spun from the fleece of a hand-selected Merino sheep. The journey of every garment can be traced back to its origin, thanks to the innovative Connected Dot, an NFC tag ingeniously integrated into the hem. This revolutionary technology offers full transparency, allowing the wearer to unravel the tale of their garment’s creation with a tap of a phone.

But their mission went beyond creating exceptional knitwear. They sought to reimagine the fashion industry’s approach to the environment. Instead of merely offsetting emissions, Sheep Inc strived to make a positive impact, pledging to remove more CO2 from the atmosphere than the manufacturing process created. This vision led to Sheep Inc becoming the first carbon-negative fashion brand, a true pioneer in environmental responsibility.

In the eyes of the Founders, each Sheep Inc garment is not just a product but an embodiment of their vision, an artefact of the world they strive to create, and an invitation to join a journey that transcends fashion. It’s a dream, woven into reality, one stitch at a time.