TOMS and ethical footwear: what to check before you buy
Use TOMS as a worked example for separating company giving, material information and the practical qualities of a particular pair of shoes.
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Explore the latest guides, ideas and useful explanations from our editorial team.
Build a useful capsule wardrobe from what you own
Find the combinations already working in your wardrobe, deal with repair gaps and make a short needs list before buying anything new.
Clothing care labels: turn the symbols into a routine
Recognise the main groups of care symbols, check the complete garment and turn label instructions into a simple sorting habit.
Five small clothing repairs worth learning
Start with a loose button, open seam or dropped hem, then recognise the repairs best left to a professional.
A practical checklist for buying second-hand clothes
Check measurements, construction, condition and likely repair costs so a bargain becomes something you will actually wear.
Leather alternatives: read beyond the plant-based headline
Understand coatings, backing and material percentages before assuming vegan or plant-based tells the whole story.
Choosing, caring for and repairing denim
Look beyond the wash and size label: check fit and construction, plan care and catch worn areas while they can still be repaired.
A lower-waste laundry routine that fits real life
Build a practical routine around what needs washing, care labels, detergent dosing and a drying plan that suits your home.
How to check clothing quality before you buy
Use a few checks for fit, seams, fabric and fastenings to compare garments without assuming a high price guarantees a long life.
Five questions to ask about a clothing sustainability claim
A short, repeatable way to examine a claim's scope, evidence, comparison, conditions and relevance to your own wardrobe.