Well hello to you my reader chums! This past year, I've tried to take the step in living more sustainably and doing my part in trying to help the planet; it really is the little things that can help. I've made eco-friendly changes to my beauty routine, shared how to travel more sustainably and other lifestyle tips.

One thing that is hugely affecting the planet is fashion, fast fashion to be more precise. The type of clothes that are unethically made in the masses and sold cheaply worldwide. I used to be a shopping addict and spend excess money on clothes I really didn't need and I never actually thought about where they came from. However, in a bid to reduce my personal carbon footprint, I've taken a huge step back with my wardrobe and started to rethink my choices, spending habits, and how I can dress more sustainably.

Heiko Clothing is a sustainable clothing brand I saw on my Instagram feed and fell in love with their ethics and designs of their clothes straight away. When they offered to send me some items, I was so excited. They started the brand with one goal in mind - to bring an affordable eco-friendly and fashionable alternative to the market. The team at Heiko works closely with independent designers to create lovely pieces and aim to work together to save our planet. Amazing ethics to match some super cute clothes.

What did I think of Heiko Clothing?

The team at Heiko kindly send me two t-shirts which the prints 'plants are friends' and one with an ice cream cone, the earth being the ice cream to represent the damage being done to the planet. And, a tote bag with 'planet or plastic?' I'm a massive tote bag fan so when this arrived, you can imagine I was thrilled. I love how Heiko are representing the message about the planet on their clothing as it's a bold way to make people think.

I'm a sucker for a caption or printed tee and I definitely will be getting my use out of them, pairing the tops with denim skirts or jeans and a cosy cardigan over the top in the autumn months. The texture of the tops is well made and I know it's going to last through wash after wash, due to the material.

A lot of sustainable brands I come across are really expensive, however, at Heiko, it's the same sort of prices I spend in Topshop - so I think it's much better to invest in a brand with better morals for the planet than a larger corporation.

If you're looking to shop more sustainable or make eco-friendly choices when it comes to your wardrobe, here are a few ways to dress more sustainably:

• Second-hand shopping - I've been doing this a lot lately and utilising Depop as much as possible. The temptation out there for high street shopping is unreal, however, when I scroll on Depop, my high street is already there. People are selling clothes that have barely been worn for half the price so it's a no brainer really. Also, charity shops, Gumtree, and Facebook marketplace are great places for some second-hand clothes.
• Do your research into clothing shops - A lot of big companies 'greenwash' which means they claim to be eco-friendly with what they're selling but if you dig a little deeper, their clothes aren't actually ethical. Research into the companies, what they stand for, and how their clothing is being made - and invest your money correctly.
• Invest in sustainable clothing - You don't need every cute top you see on the market as much as you think it'll look good on Instagram (I'm terrible for doing this.) But, instead,  try and buy more versatile pieces from sustainable brands. They may cost more, but in the long run, they'll last a lot longer and you won't be needing to pick up new clothes as often (shoutout to Heiko Clothing here.)
• Rework your wardrobe - I can guarantee you have pieces in your wardrobe that you have and don't wear ever - I know I do. And, it's these pieces that you can utilise and style in different ways to make a whole new outfit.
• Clothes swap with friends and family - We all have at least one friend of similar clothing size to us so instead of repurchasing a new outfit for a night out, shop in their wardrobe, and they can do the same with you. It'll be a new look because you haven't worn it before and it'll save you money.
• Make new clothes - If you're feeling really creative, one of the best ways to be sustainable is by making your own clothes or altering pieces you already have in your wardrobe. I've seen this a lot on Instagram lately and I think it's so inventive and fun too.