Categories
#GreenQueen INSPO Wellness

5 New Year’s Resolutions for a Sustainable 2023

We’ve all been caught in the cycle of forgetting about New Year’s resolutions soon after making them. This year, we’re creating goals based on sustainable values that are much more exciting (and rewarding) to keep up with 💚. Planet-friendly New Year’s resolutions can help you flex your creativity, gain knowledge, and help reduce emissions and clothing waste. Kick off the New Year with a closet clear-out, and use the sustainable resolutions below as a starting point to extend the life cycle of your closet.

Hold a Clothing Swap with your Community 👯‍♀️

Clothing swaps are the perfect opportunity to connect with your community and add some cute new pieces to your wardrobe. Swaps can range from a small group of friends having a home-cooked meal together and trading clothes from their closets, to a large event that helps out those in need of warm clothes for the winter. You can even make a pact with your fam to bring extra clothes to family parties to trade (or hand down to younger ones). No matter the size or intention of your swap, have some fun with it – flex your design skills by creating an event flyer for social media, create a playlist, and set up some food and drinks ♥️.

Clear out your Closet to Sell Second-Hand 👗

The best part of selling second-hand is knowing for sure that a piece you no longer want is going into the hands of someone who wants or needs it – and can easily pass it on in the future. One of the best ways to resell consistently is by doing recurring closet cleanouts. This gives you the chance to slow down and decide which items you’d like to let go of or add to your wardrobe (plus it keeps your space less cluttered✨). As a seller, you can try challenging yourself to use sustainable shipping practices, like reusing packaging you already have or adding thank you notes for buyers on recycled paper ♻️.

Mend your Clothes 🪡

The longer you have a piece of clothing, the more wear and tear it may get, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to toss or donate it! There are so many ways to mend your clothes, from getting them fixed at a tailor to learning how to sew so you can fix holes and tears yourself! To avoid having to do too much damage control, take a little extra time to give your clothes some TLC from the time you first get them. One of the easiest ways to start doing this is to learn how to read clothing care labels (because who can really tell what those random shapes and symbols actually mean?) Once your clothing can’t take any more washes, consider upcycling it into something like a purse or reusing the fabric for cleaning (or even a fabric art project ).

Upcycle your Old Threads 🎨

Upcycling – which is basically giving unused materials new life/value –  is the perfect way to let your creativity shine. One quick scroll through upcycling TikTok will start you off with tons of inspiration, and you’ll never look at the old fabrics, charms, and unworn clothes you have laying around the house the same! A lot of upcycled items with parts from brands like LV and Chanel can be found on Curtsy, but you don’t have to have a luxury element in the upcycled pieces you create. By upcycling, you can keep finished products from ending up as waste, and add your own twist for a whole new design 🪡💛.

Try out Sustainable Brands ♻️

To help keep your sustainable habits going past New Years, keep yourself up to date on sustainability in the fashion world. On top of doing your own research, it also helps to read articles and purchase clothing (secondhand is even better, of course) from sustainable brands like Patagonia and Levis. The people behind these brands are dedicating endless hours towards being industry leaders in sustainability. On their websites, some brands like Patagonia have environmental activism sections about their values, opportunities to get involved in environmental groups, and inspirational stories from activists around the world 🌎.

From the closet of a friend, to a unique upcycled accessory, to the Curtsy feed, there’s always more life to give to your clothes ✨

Categories
Curtsy Comeback Trending

Comeback Queens: UGG Boots

Once the Classic UGG Boot was introduced to the world, it stuck in the minds of all different kinds of people as an iconic, blanket-by-the-fire warm shoe. Originating in 1978, UGG evolved from surf-wear to luxe-casual wear worn by everyone from y2k reality stars to your middle school best friend. Most recently, they’ve collaborated with visionary artists and designers to bring their brand to the next level. Learn more below about UGG’s rebrand and how to style UGG boots, slippers, and handbags to complete your winter outfits. 🤍

UGG’s History

Before becoming a major staple across high fashion and everyday wear, UGGs were the best kept secret across surf culture in Cali. In 1978, the brand originated with the vision of Brian Smith, a surfer who moved from Australia to SoCal¹. They were created as warm shoes to put on right after surfing in cold waters, but the practice of creating boots from sheepskin dates all the way back to rural 1920s Australia². It’s no wonder that after all these years, comfort is still key for UGG.

UGG in the 2000s

UGG evolved from strictly surf-wear to a pop culture force when celebrities such as Pamela Anderson, Kate Moss, and Beyonce started casually wearing them². For Millennials especially, UGGs were all the rage, so much so that I remember having an 8th  grade teacher who had a collection of 60 different pairs! Not only were there endless styles and colors, but the materials that UGG uses to craft their items are unmatched in quality.

UGG’s Rebrand

From the early 2000s on, UGG carved out a spot in fashion history, but the brand hit a wall as their classic shoes were basically everywhere. Since 2018, UGG has pushed beyond their limits with tons of artsy collaborations. In 2020, designer Telfar Clemens teamed up with UGG to create FEEL YOU, a collaboration with over 30 creatives who combined the two brands’ unisex, everyday luxury values. Items from the collection, like the UGG X Telfar Small Reverse Shopper, can now be found on Curtsy!

Style the Staples

Whether you’re the queen of minimalism or like to experiment with colors and layers, you can always fit UGGs into the mix. Trending UGG styles like platform boots, ultra-minis, and slippers are so versatile. See how to style them below!

Maxis & Minis

Classic UGG boots are reliable and comfortable, but there’s always room for a twist. Experimenting with extreme lengths has been all the rage for clothes and shoes this year. Maxi length pieces are perfect to balance out the unique, unexpected look of UGG ultra minis or platforms, two of the trendiest styles out right now.  Whether you wear a cozy but structured maxi coat or a denim maxi skirt with a sporty top (like a half-zip hoodie), long and clean lines will draw attention to your ultra-short (or tall) shoes.

Light Wash Denim

Light wash denim is an absolute classic pairing with UGGs, and it can also give you the chance to play with bright colors more. Try pairing light wash denim jeans (or a skirt) with a simple white top and bright colored UGG slippers or boots (I love the pink ones 💖). You can also add a matching cardigan for more boldness (like Bella Hadid’s all-denim look with pink UGG slippers and a matching cardi 💅). The key to adding more texture and layers to this for winter is accessories (that you can thrift on Curtsy 💛)– from chunky scarves, to clean white socks, and pre-academia headbands.

Earth Toned Layers

Shades of brown and green are big this season, and UGG pieces in neutral colors – from boots to handbags – pair perfectly. Keep yourself warm this winter with layered fits in colors inspired by the calmness of nature. To make sure your layers don’t get overshadowed by each other, try mixing fabrics like corduroy, suede, sherpa, and denim. Adding in an off-white top or skirt can also create some contrast between similar earthy colors. Treat your UGG ‘fit like a canvas with the warmest colors you can think of 🌞

Whether you’re searching for your first pair of UGGS or have you worn them for years and want to switch up styles, Curtsy has a ton of options. Can’t wait to see the looks you create!

Sources

¹ “Who We Are.” UGG, Deckers Brands, https://www.ugg.com/our-story.html. Accessed 25 Nov
2022.

² UGG Express Shop. ​​“The Evolution of Uggs.” Ugg Express, 8 July 2019,
https://www.uggexpress.com/blogs/news/the-evolution-of-uggs. Accessed 25 Nov 2022.

Categories
INSPO Selling with Curtsy

Closet Clean-Out Tips: 4 Questions to Ask Yourself💬 

Cleaning out your closet doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful! Like looking through old photos or meeting up with a past friend, a closet clean-out can be a chance to reflect on how you’ve changed and where you’re headed. By taking the time to ask yourself four simple questions, you can be one step closer to having a thrifted wardrobe that changes with your lifestyle ♻️.

1. How does this fit me?

Try to dig a little deeper beyond how the piece fits your body – when you wear it, do you feel comfortable and confident? Try on some clothes in the mirror, turn on your favorite music, and take note of how the color, texture, and movement of the piece makes you feel. If you’re sure you’d want to resell a piece on Curtsy, you can use this time to start creating content for Try-On videos! Create a yes, no, and maybe pile, and remember that they aren’t set in stone. Pieces can be moved around as you keep asking yourself these questions.

2. How does this fit my lifestyle?

What do you spend a majority of your time doing for work, me-time, and social time? If you work from home, you’ll need comfy yet professional basics. To make getting out of the house on weekends that much more exciting, you might want some extra glam dresses (Revolve dresses are my go-to 💛). If you’re on a sports team at school, maybe you could use some North Face pieces that keep you cozy on walks to class and activewear that fits just right.

3. Can I give this more life or am I ready to let go?

Sometimes you’ll come across pieces you’ve had for so long you can’t imagine letting them go, like a leather jacket that’s been with you through years of ups and downs. Think about the care the item requires and if you have the time/energy to fix any damage. If it’ll just be taking up space after many closet cleanouts, it could feel refreshing to resell that pre-loved item to someone new! Even better if the category or brand is trending on Curtsy and could sell super quickly 🤑!

4. How can I expand on styles outside of my comfort zone?

The best part about a closet clean-out is that it helps your closet evolve with you 🌱. Are there any pieces that stuck out to you that you’ve been nervous to wear, but want to try, like vintage sweaters? Or a piece you thought was your aesthetic but no longer feels right (that might even still have the tags on 🏷️)? Reselling is the perfect way to explore looks outside of your comfort zone while knowing you’re sustainably switching pieces in and out.

Ready to clear out the old and bring in the (like)-new? We can’t wait to see your listings!

Categories
INSPO

Curtsy Holiday Gift Guide 🎁

Everyone’s most anticipated month has arrived. What’s up December? While many of us are excited for holiday season ahead, others may be stuck stressing over the perfect gift. Look no further, your Curtsy fam has got you covered with fun and unique gift ideas for the holidays ☃️. 

Let’s start out small, and STUFF those stockings 🧦

  1. Socks. You either love ’em or you hate ’em, but we all need them. So throw in a nice pair of fuzzy socks, or even this snazzy Patagonia pair 🧦. 
  2. A new book 📖. More specifically, a popular novel that has BookTok in a chokehold. The perfect gift for the family member who needs a social media detox or just loves a good read.
  3. Cloud Paint Blush. Glossier is the reigning champ in aesthetics and branding, so toss in any of their products for a home run gift any girl will cherish 💋. 
  4. A new daily planner 🗓. While some of us have switched to digital calendars over the years, the lucky few who still enjoy analog planners would surely LOVE one for the next year ahead. 
  5. Drunk Elephant Gift Set. Drunk Elephant is THE brand all skincare gurus would love to see in their stocking. Grab a small gift set & let them try something new in their routine 🧖‍♀️!

Gifts for the Luxe Lover…for the boujee babes in your life 💎

  1. Steve Madden Platform Boots 👢. A closet staple to some, and statement piece to others. Black boots are always in style and a fun gift for someone who loves to show off their shoe game. 
  2. Glossier Hoodie. A Glossier hoodie is the perfect gift with subtle branding and fun color options 💗. It’s comfy AND cute!
  3. Philosophy Perfume 🌸. Philosophy keeps their scents clean, sweet, and still subtle. These perfumes are affordable and still feel luxurious with their beautiful packaging. 
  4. BaubleBar Customizable Throw Blanket. Throw blankets are always a gift guide staple, but make them visually appealing AND customizable and you have a WINNER 🛋. 

Gifts for the Party Host! Bring the party with these fun gifts 🎉

  1. Karaoke Microphone 🎤. The perfect gift for any age group. A rechargeable and Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone makes for a fun times wherever the night may take you.
  2. Wordle, the Party Game. Wordle is THE trend taking over the internet this year. Now that they’ve made it into a board game 🧩…it’s the perfect gift for friends and family to enjoy together. 
  3. Sunset Lamp 🌅. Another viral goodie, the sunset lamp, makes for the perfect gift to set the mood for any event or party. 
  4. Fondue Set 🫕. Okay seriously, who DOESN’T like fondue?!? Whether it’s fondue for two or fondue for a few, this set is a guaranteed good time. 
  5. Colorful Wine Glasses 🍷. Any party host would LOVE a set of fun wine glasses to use at their next get together. Perfect for Instagram posts and a colorful “cheers!”

Gifts for the Sustainable Queen in your life… & please don’t forget the reusable bags ♻️

  1. Stasher Tupperware 🍱. These eco-friendly reusable ziploc bags are the perfect gift for the sustainable queens in your life. Not only are they waste free and reusable, they are ADORABLE!
  2. Fabric Gift Wrap Set. Now here’s something to wrap with, that doubles as a gift in itself 💝! Around the holidays, wrapping paper and other gift decorations can be wasteful and excessive. To keep it green, try using reusable fabric gift wrap!  
  3. Baggu Reusable Packable Tote👜. When was the last time you forgot your reusable bags at the grocery store? Baggu Packable bags are perfect for our forgetful friends, as they pack up into a small, portable size that fits in most purses! These bags reduce plastic waste while shopping AND double as an accessory with the CUTEST prints.
  4. Curtsy Gift Card. Hello, the perfect gift has arrived. Not sure what to get someone? Let them decide for themselves with a Curtsy Gift Card. Not going to see the recipient in person? Not a problem, Curtsy Gift Cards are digital 💳! Giving the gift of shopping sustainably is always a winner in our book. 

Gifts for the Traveler, dare we say…Mr/Mrs. Worldwide 🌎

  1. Baboon to the Moon Bag 🧳. Baboon to the Moon, makes functional fun with their perfect travel bags. With bags of all sizes, colors, and functions, treat your traveler to a swanky new piece.
  2. Thread Wallets Fanny Pack. NEWSFLASH. Fanny packs are IN. They can be worn as traditional fanny packs or crossbodys. Thread Wallets make great options that come in a variety of colors.
  3. Film Camera 🎞. A timeless way to capture the moment, on film. Snag your traveler a film camera to see all of their adventures unedited and in the moment. 
  4. Thread Wallets Airpods Case. For any airpods user, a case is essential to keeping them protected 🎧. Thread Wallets does it again with the fun print options and carabiners to attach easily to bags on the go. Never lose those things again!
  5. Luggage Tag/Passport Holder. Grab a fun and colorful luggage tag 🏷 and passport holder for the traveler who loves a good Pinterest moment or just a good old pop of color. 

Gifts for Him, whoever “He” might be 👀…

  1. Carhartt Jacket 🧥. These jackets are all the rage this winter season. Curtsy has a ton of vintage options for the perfect unique and functional piece.
  2. Nike Socks. You would be surprised how excited boys get when they receive these socks as a gift 🧦.
  3. Vinyl Air Freshener. Have a man in your life who loves music? These sweet Vinyl air fresheners are a fun and unique way to freshen up the car 💽! They come in packs with interchangeable “records” for different scents!
  4. Method Body Wash 🧼. Method body wash bottles are made from recycled plastic and use plant based cleansers. As something your man may not think to buy for himself, this is a fun gift to throw in at the last minute.
  5. New Balance 550. These sneakers are an awesome gift for one who loves fashion, clothes, or shoes 👟. They are the perfect neutral sneaker that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. 

Gifts for Mom 💐

  1. Salt Lamp 🕯. Everyone loves a little relaxation. Salt lamps bring warmth to a room and provide a calming effect for Mom (she’ll thank you later…).
  2. HydroFlask Mug. Surely Mom already has her favorite mugs, but does she have a HydroFlask mug ☕️? Remind your mom just how thoughtful you are with a gift she can use on the go. 
  3. DIY Tile Mat. These Pinterest worthy tile mats are the perfect gift for mom. She can create her own messages and designs. It’s perfect for year-round use and great for every holiday 🎄!
  4. Brooklinen Robe. Mom will definitely need to unwind after this year’s holiday festivities. Let her unwind in style with a high quality linen robe in her favorite color 🛁! 
  5. Birkenstock Boston Clogs 👞. Although she has had her Birkenstocks for decades, it may be time for a much needed upgrade. Get Mom a pair of Birkenstocks that are in style, in season, and that will be around for decades to come.