Little Green Story

We’re learning to be cautious about cheap clothes.  

When I see a low price tag, an alarm goes off in my head flashing ‘sweatshops!’ in neon lights and I’m immediately worried about quality and durability too. So it’s not surprising that ethical fashion has earned itself the reputation of being expensive. 

But in many ways that’s not a good thing. If ethical fashion is going to make it into the mainstream it needs to be accessible to people and as long as the message is out there that purchases should always be considered ones, however cheap, surely a low price tag is a good thing? 

With this in mind, we’ve sought out the best fashion buys under £30. Lovely, well made stuff by ethical brands we trust… 

Click on the images below to see them in their full glory. 

Unless you’ve been living under a rock the past few months, you’ll know about Emma Watson’s range for people tree. Not only is it fabulous, but it’s affordable too. This summer dress with elasticated waist is perfect for a cover up at the beach, or thrown over a long sleeve top and leggings whilst the winter chill is still hanging about. Snap it up for £30. Keep patriotic with Emma’s Union Jack t shirt dress. Keep it casual with slouchy boots or sandals, or put on your favourite killer heels for a dressed up, casual look. Also £30, available from peopletree.co.uk. 

I’m still obsessing over our Fashion Week find, Little Green Story. Their great designs are perfect for getting a high fashion fix at high street prices. I love their t shirts. They come in a range of cute designs, and definitely don’t break the bank. They look great over a pair of jeans, or tucked into a high waisted skirt. At €25.73, which converts to just over £23, you can buy in bulk. Available at littlegreenstory.se. 

Little Green Story have a great section on their website where you can buy vintage pieces directly from them. I’ve fallen in love with the cream-coloured cigarette trousers, which look great turned up at the bottom. Teamed with one of their t shirts, you’ve got a killer work outfit, or a smart-casual summer get-up. Keep an eye out for their Autumn/Winter range as well – I love this label! 

Ascensiononline.com have a great range of ethical brands. Stand out pieces include a red, boat-knecked t shirt by Bibico, £30. The nautical look is back this spring, and this striped number is perfect. Team it with denim shorts or boyfriend jeans for a cool, casual look. 

Another piece is the cross front dress by Braintree. This is a great piece that is easily taken from day to night. Wear with opaques and a blazer for work, and bare legs and statement necklace for after-work drinks. The cross over detail is very flattering, and the straight neckline means it would be great for ample bosomed ladies, or those of us with a more discreet cleavage. Available in two colours and priced at £29. 

Nomadsclothing.com have a great little number in the form of a gypsy-style, short sleeved dress. This is a great dress for summer festivals, and I also picture it teamed with wellies, a woolly hat and a chocolate labrador in the country! At £24.90 there’s no need to worry about mud. 

hug.co.uk have an excellent range of ethical clothing on offer, including a peacock print dress that’s perfect now spring is on its way. Great pulled over thick tights and boots now, and with sandals and a straw hat when the sun comes out. Priced at a fabulous £17.50. 

There’s no excuses – ethical fashion is out there, and it’s affordable. So what are you waiting for? 

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