Glitter & glamour: how to find your party dress in a more sustainable way

The holidays are just around the corner: a time full of warmth, lights and of course… glitter! Whether you’re celebrating Christmas with family, dancing your way into the new year or attending a sparkling company party, this is the moment to shine. But how can we do that in a way that not only feels good, but is also good for the planet?

The solution is simpler (and more stylish) than you might think: rent, buy secondhand or invest in high-quality pieces that will last for many years to come. Because celebrating in a truly sustainable way starts with your wardrobe, or better said, outside your own.

1. Rent your outfit, wear the memory

Instead of buying a new dress, glittery top or festive skirt every year, you can choose to rent. More and more clothing rental platforms offer a wide selection of party outfits: from eye-catching sequin dresses to chic suits.

One of our favorite clothing libraries is LENA Fashion Library in Amsterdam. They now have two locations in the city: one in the Jordaan and one in De Pijp. In addition to their seasonal everyday collections, they also have a wide range of festive clothing.

Do you love glitter, sequins and everything bold and glamorous? Then the glitter glam collection from RENTGLAM is perfect for you! This Amsterdam-based clothing rental platform makes sure you can shine at every party, without having to buy.

We also have a favourite in Belgium: the clothing library Dressr. On their online platform, you can browse the entire collection, including a festive collection, and you can also visit their showroom in Antwerp. Book a time slot and head home with the (rented) party outfit of your dreams!

How does it work?

Renting clothes is simple, fun ánd affordable. Each clothing rental platform has its own concept, so it’s important to check the terms and conditions. You can rent individual pieces with credits, for example for one day, a weekend or up to 10 days. Often, you can also subscribe to a monthly plan that lets you easily and affordably mix and match new looks every month. Some clothing libraries also offer a discount if you decide to purchase the piece after the rental period.

What are the benefits?

• You get access to high-quality (designer) clothing without the high price tag.
• You save resources, water and energy that would otherwise be used to produce new clothing.
• You can wear a different look every year without overconsumption or an overcrowded closet.
• That way, you can shine with confidence, knowing your choice is just as brilliant for the planet as it is for you.

2. Secondhand glitter: unique and more conscious

Would you rather buy something that’s truly yours? Then secondhand shopping is the perfect way to go. In secondhand and vintage stores or thrift shops, you’ll find pre-loved festive gems with its own story to tell.

Think of an ​’80s velvet blazer, a sequin dress or a satin blouse that deserves a second life. By buying secondhand, you’re giving ​‘old’ clothing a new chance instead of letting it end up in the landfill. And that’s what real sustainability looks like!

Find your secondhand (glitter) party outfit at Figo Vintage in Amsterdam, Jofel Vintage in Arnhem, The Swapshop in Amsterdam or Rotterdam, Vintage Jungle in Amsterdam, Pardaf in Antwerp, De Ruilhoek in Amsterdam, Outfit Library LESS in Arnhem, Hallelujah! in Hasselt, CIRCULAR Soulstore in Hasselt, or Own It Vintage in Ghent.

Pro tip: Host a swap party with friends! Everyone brings a festive outfit they no longer wear and together you exchange looks. Fun, social and zero waste!

3. Invest in timeless sparkle

Sometimes you can’t find your dream outfit by renting or buying secondhand. In that case, it’s smart to invest in a more sustainable, high-quality piece that you can wear for years to come.

You can choose for:

• A little black dress that you can style differently each time with a festive jacket.
• A well-tailored blazer with a subtle sheen.
• Accessories made from more sustainable materials such as recycled metal or bioplastic.

Mix and match creatively to give every outfit its own twist: with jewellery, shoes or makeup, you can refresh the same outfit endlessly.

The best shops to find a glitter look in a more sustainable way

RENTGLAM

Rent glitter, glamour and festive looks in Amsterdam

RENTGLAM is the ultimate Dutch clothing rental concept for anyone who loves glitter, style and a touch of extravagance, without compromising on sustainability. From their stylish studio in Amsterdam or through on-location pop-ups, RENTGLAM helps you find the perfect sparkling outfit for any occasion.

Also possible: a fitting session with friends! Book a private session with your girl gang + a fashion expert for good vibes, glitter and envy-worthy looks.

Dressr

Rent festive looks from more sustainable brands in Antwerp

Dressr is a Belgian rental platform that gives you access to a carefully curated collection of more sustainable (designer) clothing and accessories from local brands. From everyday wear to a unique, high-quality festive collection. For example, choose a stylish glitter skirt from EVAMARIA and pair it with a distinctive jacquard blazer from CKS, both proudly Belgian brands.

LENA Fashion Library

Rent your party look in Amsterdam for a few euros a day

The clothing library LENA Fashion Library has been a well-known name in Amsterdam for years and now has two locations: one in the Jordaan and one in De Pijp. You can go here all year round to rent clothing suitable for any season, often for just a few euros (or even less!) per day, depending on the item’s value. They also have a wide festive collection where you can rent party-ready jumpsuits, tops, skirts, dresses,and accessories.

Stop by at one of LENA’s cosy stores, you’ll be warmly welcomed and stylishly assisted by the lovely LENA team!

Looking for more sustainable inspiration? Read on:

• Why buy if you can rent your wedding guest attire?
• The coolest fashion rental concepts that will save the world