'Make do and mend'
History
When we look at history ‘From June 1941 until 1949, buying new clothes was rationed in Britain, the Ministry of Information in 1943, launched ‘Make Do and Mend’. It was part of the Government's campaign urging people to repair, reuse and reimagine their existing clothes during the Second World War’. This ‘make do and mend’ ethos was soon discarded when the war ended and the economy boomed.
The ‘Purchasing and discarding of clothing became a form of freedom which override saving and repair.
Visible mending techniques working into cable knits. Blanket stitch, cross stick and patchwork. Designer - Mollie Fawcett
As we have entered the 21st century ‘Make do and mend’ is resurfacing with the environment at the core. Trending topic include upcycling , reworking and repairing clothing to make unique individual pieces. This technique creates one-of-a-kind garments which have a sense of nostalgia and history, the make do and mend practice is also a way to get creative and show your identity in a more personal way towards clothing.
Visible mending techniques. Layering over snagged knit and using blanket stitch, cross stich. Designer - Mollie Fawcett. Using wool and embriodery thread.
The most sustainable clothes are the ones we already have in our waldrobe and by making do and mending these this is the most sustainable option. By ‘making do’ you are not consuming anything unnecessarily or contributing to over consumption and are giving garments a new lease of life.
Scraps of knit fingerless gloves with elements of upcycled Barbour jacket. Part of the knitted acessories collection.