Being a uni student can be expensive at times but shopping sustainably doesn’t have to cost the planet - or break your bank account!
Whether you're an 18-year-old fresher or a seasoned postgrad, there's one thing we can all agree on - Sheffield has an incredible vibe when it comes to shopping sustainably.
From vintage gems to charity steals, this city is packed with eco-friendly spots to help you ditch fast fashion without sacrificing style. Here's your guide to navigating Sheffield's sustainable shopping scene.
Why shop sustainably?
Let's face it, fast fashion is tempting. It's cheap, it's everywhere, and TikTok influencers make it look irresistible. But fast fashion is one of the biggest contributors to environmental damage and unethical labour practices. Shopping sustainably isn't just a buzzword; it's a way to make a difference while still styling outfits that turn heads. Plus, it's often cheaper and more unique than hitting the high street.
Vintage treasures: Sheffield's top spots for retro gold
If you're into timeless, one-of-a-kind pieces, Sheffield's vintage shops are your playground. Here are a few must-visits:
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The holy grail for students who love vintage vibes. Whether you're after 90s windbreakers, 70s flares, or retro accessories, Good Good has it all. Prices are student-friendly and with a 10% student discount, you can upgrade your wardrobe without maxing out your overdraft.
@goodgoodvintagesheffield
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Stylish, sustainable, and oh-so-cool. Their reworked pieces and curated collection means you'll find pieces that feel modern yet nostalgic. While known for affordable fashion, they also offer pre-owned designer labels such as Prada, Stone Island, Burberry, and more! They also offer a 10% student discount.
@vulgarshop
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Glass Onion is the UK's biggest second-hand store; they rescue a whopping 20,000kg of clothes every week from ending up in landfill! You can score some seriously cool pieces without breaking the bank, and feel good about saving the planet at the same time. It's not just pre-loved clothes they sell; they transform damaged or unwanted clothes into totally unique, reworked items - think fresh takes on vintage styles. Plus you can get 15% off with your student ID!
@glassonion.sheffield
Charity shops - doing good while looking great
Charity shops are the ultimate way to save money and support good causes. Luckily, Sheffield is brimming with them.
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Forget the other St. Luke's - the Broomhill shop is where it's at. Seriously, this is where all the best vintage ends up. They've got their stuff together (literally!), with everything neatly organised so you're not wading through piles of clothes. Think proper vintage shop vibes but with charity shop prices - we're talking classic cuts and even vintage Jaeger for around a tenner! Need to kit out your student digs? They've got a nostalgic range of crockery, homeware, and books too.
Every penny spent at St Luke's charity shops supports care for Sheffield residents (18+) with terminal illnesses. With 15 shops citywide, your purchase helps an amazing cause!
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An absolute treasure trove of preloved and new finds - BHF have everything from clothes, shoes, and accessories to books, toys, and even homeware. Plus, being located on popular student road, their rails are bursting with fresh drops from students emptying their wardrobes! Think brands like Zara, Nike, PrettyLittleThing, SHEIN, Adidas, and tonnes more. Whether it's a vintage gem or a brand-new bargain you're after, these guys have it all.
When you buy from BHF, you're contributing to funding lifesaving research into heart and circulatory diseases, even more of a reason to shop there!
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Need to furnish your student digs without going over budget? Look no further. A short walk from Ponds Forge, Emmaus Superstore isn't your average charity shop - they've got everything from preloved and vintage fashion to furniture, electricals, books, vinyl, and loads more. They even have refurbished and handmade items from their own workshop - talk about unique! Oh, and did we mention they have goats you can pet?!
All money spent goes directly to providing homes, support, and work for people experiencing homelessness in a drug and alcohol-free environment. So, you can grab a bargain and support a great cause - win-win!
Eco-friendly shops - beyond the clothes
Sustainable shopping isn't just about clothes. Sheffield has plenty of eco-friendly shops where you can stock up on essentials guilt-free.
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Unwrapped makes zero-waste shopping easier than ever! This vegetarian (and largely vegan) shop stocks all your weekly essentials, catering to various budgets. Tired of eco-friendly options being either difficult or expensive? Unwrapped is the answer. This shop prioritises evidence-based sourcing and are constantly working to improve their environmental impact. As Sheffield students, supporting local, sustainable businesses like Unwrapped helps keep our city green!
@theunwrappedshop
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Head to The Bare Alternative for all your eco-friendly essentials without the hefty price tag. This store is all about making sustainable living accessible for everyone, which is perfect for students! Stock up on package-free food and ingredients but just remember to BYOC (bring your own container!). They've also got you covered for natural cleaning products and everyday sustainable swaps like bamboo toothbrushes, steel straws, and other eco-friendly cosmetics and hygiene goodies. They're not just about organic or vegan - their main goal is to make low-impact living affordable and convenient for the whole community.
@barealternative
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For unique, ethical finds that support independent makers and give back, check out MoonKo in Sheffield! This shop offers handmade ceramics, jewellery, prints, and more, all made with care and often by local designers (some even fellow students!). MoonKo uses eco-conscious materials and supports charities fighting poverty and other important causes. Skip fast fashion and head to MoonKo for high-quality pieces with a story – you'll be supporting local creativity, ethical production, and a good cause.
@moonko____
Top tips for sustainable shopping in Sheffield
- Plan ahead: Sustainable shopping takes a little more effort than scrolling through ASOS, but it's so worth it. Make a list of what you need and where to go.
- Don't be afraid to haggle: Some vintage and charity shops are open to negotiation, especially if you're buying multiple items.
- Look beyond labels: Sustainable doesn't always mean secondhand. Many local shops stock eco-friendly brands that focus on ethical production and materials.
Final thoughts 💭
Shopping sustainably in Sheffield isn't just about reducing your carbon footprint; it's about embracing a lifestyle that's kinder to the planet and your wallet. With so many vintage shops, charity stores, and eco-friendly outlets, you're spoilt for choice. So next time you're tempted by a fast fashion haul, take a stroll down Division Street or Abbeydale Road instead. Your future self - and the planet - will thank you.