Snigdha Ahuja
Updated on: October 11, 2024 10:42 am GMT
Cat Deeley made a notable impression at the 2024 National Television Awards, showcasing not only a standout fashion choice but also her commitment to sustainable fashion. The television presenter, known for her role on ITV’s *This Morning*, donned a vintage red gown from Saint Laurent that resembles the one she wore during her wedding party in 2012. Deeley’s decision to wear vintage reflects her belief in the importance of eco-friendly practices within the fashion industry.
A Nod to Nostalgia and Sustainability
Deeley’s choice of dress was more than a fashion statement; it was a blend of sentimentality and environmental consciousness. The figure-hugging Saint Laurent gown, which Deeley described as “almost like wearing a nightie,” was initially discovered through an Instagram site. “The dress does all the work. I knew it would work because I had worn it already for my wedding…it’s done and done, I will love it forever,” she explained. While *This Morning* did not win an award during the evening, Deeley’s look was deemed one of the most remarkable of the event.
A Love for Thrifting
Known for mixing high street with designer pieces, Deeley has a passion for thrifting. She enjoys unearthing “diamonds in the rough” and finds many vintage treasures while shopping in person rather than online. “If you go looking for something it’s very rare that you will find it,” she shared. Notably, Deeley’s approach to thrifting involves casual exploration rather than a structured hunt for specific items. “My technique is always a bit like, go, have a mooch, see what treasures you can find and if you see something get it… if all the stars align and luck is on your side you’ll find something absolutely exquisite.”
Championing Sustainable Fashion
This year, Cat Deeley is advocating for Oxfam’s Second Hand September campaign, which has been promoting the benefits of purchasing pre-loved clothing since 2019. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of fast fashion. Deeley expressed her growing consciousness regarding the carbon footprint created by the fashion industry and emphasized her preference for recycling and sustainable sourcing of clothing. “Because I style myself, I have a view to either buy things that I keep and recycle again… or I find something secondhand, something vintage and secondhand,” she remarked.
Personal Attire and Lifelong Favorites
Deeley also highlighted her fondness for vintage items in her wardrobe. Among her most cherished possessions is a pair of ballet flats by River Island, which she believes cost her less than £20. She stated, “I’ll have them forever, they weren’t a lot of money, but I will hang on to them. Just because I don’t pay very much for something doesn’t mean I won’t hang onto it.” Her affinity for thrifting extends back to her childhood, where she relished exploring antique fairs with her mother. “We used to love having a little potter around… I loved it from being a little girl,” she added.
A Commitment to Conscious Choices
Deeley’s approach to fashion is guided by a commitment to sustainability. This commitment is evident in her choices for television appearances, where she opts for pre-loved items rather than disposable fashion. “It’s certainly not disposable in any way, shape or form,” she clarified. She carefully selects items she genuinely loves, emphasizing a style philosophy that transcends fleeting trends. “At 47, I have finally come to know what suits me and I know what works for my body,” Deeley said. For her, fashion is less about following fads and more about comfort and self-expression.
Addressing Environmental Awareness
Deeley noted an overall shift in public consciousness regarding fashion and its environmental footprint. “Like everybody else, I think we’ve all just become much more environmentally aware… it’s a slow-burn but I feel like we are slowly educating ourselves,” she stated. This sentiment is echoed by analysis from Oxfam, which highlights the significant water savings associated with purchasing secondhand clothing. Lorna Fallon, Oxfam’s retail director, stressed that simple choices, such as buying secondhand jeans or t-shirts, can conserve vast amounts of fresh water, making a meaningful impact on environmental sustainability.
The Thrill of the Chase
Deeley expressed her enjoyment of various secondhand markets, from local car boot sales to established venues like Christie’s. “You just never know, it’s the thrill of the chase,” she reflected on the process of seeking out vintage items. Her experiences demonstrate that sustainable fashion can be exciting and rewarding, encouraging others to consider similarly conscious shopping habits.
Engagement with Oxfam’s Campaign
To support the Second Hand September campaign or learn more about the benefits of purchasing pre-loved clothing, individuals can visit Oxfam’s official site. Deeley’s active participation underscores her belief in the power of collective action to create a positive environmental impact.
Fashion is changing, and people like Cat Deeley are showing us how to be stylish while also caring for the planet. At the 2024 National Television Awards, we saw not just the amazing talents of the nominees and winners, but also how fashion can let us express who we are while being good to the environment.
