Posh Swaps Blog

Just sometimes the process of using recycled materials in fashion designs causes something amazing. In the case of his SS10 collection it was Christopher Raeburn who brought about this transformation turning decommissioned military stock that would usually be destined for the bin into some very beautiful clothes. The designer who is a graduate of the Royal College of Art and has recently been awarded NEWGEN sponsorship reinterprets streetwear into luxurious high end pieces made from parachute silk, heavy wools leather and quilting. The collection will also be accompanied by a range of hats and bags.

This has to be recycling at its best.

This gorgeous neutral coat (Available to buy on Posh-swaps.com) is great for weathering the April showers in style, very SS10!

As the SS10 trends start to emerge in the shops, magazines and fashion websites, you might well be getting something of a feeleing of deja vu. This is not unusual as in the case of so many of this seasons (and every seasons) trends, we quite simply have been there before. The looks are usually inspired by fashion from a previous decade or just another take on a trend that comes around every few years. Take for example polka dots, we have most definitely visited this one before on numerous occassions, I should know, I have enough of it in my wardrobe. So what is so different about it this time - not that much really. Mix with a pop of colour or clash with a floral pattern and voila you have an up to date and trendy look for Spring Summer 2010. So here are a few trends for 2010 that you may well find on the rail of a second hand clothes shop (or this website) which can easily be updated for SS10.

Neutrals - this is a really easy one. Anything in beige, cream, nude or neutral will be big news this year. Chiffon dresses, jackets, shorts, trousers take your pick then wear with tan colour or neutral shoes a simple hairstyle and natural looking make up.

Trench Coats- these classic just keep coming back season after season. Try wearing with a contrasting brown belt as seen at Burberry Prorsum for for an updated look.

Florals- another key look that doesn’t really ever go out of fashion. Florals for SS10 fall into 2 categories. The dark ditsy print florals which can be worn with black opaques and Doctor Martin boots for the Nineties revival grunge look and the really bold and bright florals which are great for layering and clashing with bright colours and prints.

Minimalist -clean cut simple tailored pieces worn with minimal jewellery, pattern or fuss were another big nineties trend that is on its way back in this spring. This is a great trend to do second hand as you will be able to afford slightly better tailored pieces than you would new. For an updated look try wearing a minimalist tailored jacket with rolled up jeans and some strappy heels.

Safari / tribal prints- this season both safari and tribal prints were mixed for a eyecatching effect. Try layering different bold prints with the neutral sandy coloured safari pieces to work this trend. Also look for scarves with bright graphic prints to accessorise the look.

Denim - this never really goes out of fashion but for SS10, try all over denim (easy jeans plus denim jacket) or mix light colours with light blue denim. Another great look is the classic white shirt and denim skirt seen at Stella McCartney.

So there you have it. It is really not difficult to create this seasons looks from second hand clothes. Just mix it up a bit, layer pieces, roll the sleeves or trousers up and combine with up to date shoes or accessories. Not only will you save money but you will be investing in some great quality pieces that are sure to come back into fashion again in the future. The best thing is that no one will even know that you are wearing second hand clothes.

Spring is on its way and I can’t wait, longer days, warmer weather and a whole new wardrobe. Well actually, just because we are about to move in to a new season, it doesn’t mean that you need to buy a whole wardrobe of new clothes. It is likely that you will already have many items in your wardrobe that fit in with the seasons new trends or some really classic items that never go out of fashion. If you really don’t have anything or are in desperate need of an updated look why not try swapping some of your old clothes or buying some second hand clothes? Not only is it environmentally friendly, but you are likely to get more style for your money and will be able to afford better quality that will last for seasons to come. Here are my tp 5 items to swap or but second hand this spring.

Tailored Jackets - for a really up to date look, try wearing a tailored jacket with jeans or a t shirt and pencil skirt. Tailored jackets are a great secondhand buy as they have usually only had light wear. They are also usually quite flattering. I love this black and white tweed jacket which would look great over a really bright pink t shirt.

Trench Coat - this is one of those pieces of clothing that just keeps coming back into fashion time and time again. In fact, I am not really sure if it ever really goes out of fashion. It is classic, versatile and practical. I love this purple mac, it will work equally well for daytime or evening.

Unusual Jewellery - an unusual piece of jewellery is a great way to update and finish an outfit, add interest and stand out from the crowd. By wearing something unusual, you will not need to worry about following trends, you will be unique. I love these sweet earrings, they would look great with a bright green, pink or blue top or dress.

Leather Handbag - a good leather handbag will become better with age. A designer bag is always a good investment buy whether it is new or secondhand. This brown Mulberry messenger bag is the perfect colour and style to go with almost any casual spring outfit.

Designer Dress - the great thing about a second hand designer dress is that it is a fraction of its price new but is likely to have been well looked after and in good condition. This Notte by Marchesa Gown will really turn heads at parties, weddings and other events over the summer.