Here at IDEAL we realise that there’s more to this crazy dance than the accumulation of ‘stuff’. A life of accruing possessions will only accrue dust. Oiling the Capitalist wheels with your wallet won’t bring clarity, of that there’s no doubt….
But who can deny the positivity that a bit of pampering brings? There’s nothing wrong with taking a look inwards from time to time, letting go and just spoiling yourself. But let’s face it; a ‘buy, buy, buy’ mentality is a little wasteful, to say the least, for both our wallet and more pertinently, the planet. With that in mind, this week we’re taking a look at better caring for the stuff we already own. Here are 5 IDEAL things we’re into this week.
SHOESPA’S & RESTORATION SERVICES
Care and repair shops are on the rise, and ShoeSpa is a service that should be in everyone’s Little Black Book. The workshop, based in London’s King’s Cross, boasts a team of highly skilled restoration artisans and experts who can customise (monograms, artwork), repair and revive even the most damaged items by hand, treating your luxury goods with care and giving them a new lease of life. What’s more, they’ll deliver the finished product direct to your door.
They take a sustainable approach to fashion and regularly repair and restore everything from Christian Louboutin shoes and Gucci sneakers, to Hermes handbags and Chanel purses (they also have a sister bag restoration service, BagSpa). Just the ticket at a time when we should all be doing more to forgo the pull of fast fashion.
For more info visit shoespa.co.uk
SEWING KIT BOX
Speaking of fixing and repurposing items already in your wardrobe; upcycling old clothes that are still in good condition but not necessarily in fashion is a smart, savvy way to readdress your wardrobe and redress yourself.
If you’re handy with the old thread and needle, you could repurpose old items and turn them into something new and groovy in no time. Giving a new lease of life to a benched bit of clothing can bring added sentimental value, encourage creativity and most of all, it’ll without doubt be a unique, one-of-a-kind piece. Thrift has never sounded so fashionable.
Build your own stash of sewing necessities with these gorgeous sewing baskets from John Lewis; so attractive you’ll be looking forward to your next sewing session just to show off your toolkit.
From www.johnlewis.com
THE CLOTHES DOCTOR
If you’re not so skilled at sewing but are still keen on the ethos of repairing rather than buying (in fact, many are taking on the challenge to not buy any new clothes for a year), then the website Clothes Doctor might be for you. These London based restoration experts will fix or adjust any item from your wardrobe, with a ten day maximum turnaround and delivery an option. Alternatively, you can collect from their Farringdon workshop.
This one is ideal for those who have recently lost or gained weight, want to reinvent themselves or simply want pieces which fit perfectly to avoid those mad dashes to the high street for another top you’ll only wear once.
For more info visit clothes-doctor.com
WATCHBOXES RAPPORT LONDON
A watch is for life, not just for Christmas; is that how the old saying goes?. And ain’t it heartbreaking when you leave it on ‘the side’ (every house has one) only to find it battered and bruised a few days later. For most, the timepiece you wear is one of your biggest investments, a statement of subtly and sophistication when done right. Make sure that ‘doing it right’ extends to protecting your watch; a priority.
We love these bespoke watch boxes from Rapport London. Sturdy, assured, confident and available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colours. Their watch rolls are perfect for those on the move and ideal for taking a day and an evening watch away with you. So, say goodbye to scratched watch faces if you’re guilty of just dumping your timepiece somewhere at the bottom of your back when you travel. They also do worldwide delivery.
From www.rapportlondon.com
DR BRONNER’S PURE-CASTILE LAVENDER LIQUID SOAP
We just can’t get enough of this guy; a product which has been around forever. Biodegradable, versatile and effective – this soap is the business. The all-in one-product is good for just about any cleaning task, whether it be your clothes, your dirty dishes or even your face. With no synthetic preservatives, detergents or foaming agents, this is a sustainable, environmentally friendly product which cuts down on the packaging in a big way, too. Our theory is – the more thought you give using eco-friendly products, the more conscious you will be of looking after your things and yourself. Just remember to dilute before use.
