Dubai boasts one of the biggest shopping malls in the world. And they don’t stop at one! They have shopping centres all over town. In terms of sustainability, this can lead to mindless consumerism. Remember all those times that you have spent wandering around a shopping centre? How often did you end up buying something that you didn’t need and ended up never using? I know I’ve done that way more than I would care to admit.
I was there on holiday and was interested to see what the shopping centres were like. Some of the malls have beautiful interior but honestly, they just reminded me of the ones in Europe and the US. It’s just a shopping mall, you won’t miss anything by not checking them out. And Dubai has way more to offer than just shopping, spend your time seeing the sights instead.
Dubai Mall
If there is something that you need to buy or want to see, try to find out where the shop in question is before you go out. These malls are huge and you can walk for miles if you go in the wrong direction. (Or can’t find where you have parked the car…) Most stores have the address on the website so you can find the exact location and easiest way to get to the shop without wasting valuable time.
There are some beautiful scarves and fabrics in natural fibres. As well as traditional bags and shoes. The people who work in the souks are very friendly and you can find out where the items are from and haggle for the price. It’s also a lovely part of Dubai that is away from all the glitz and glamour of the new town. One of my favourite days in Dubai was spent wandering around the old town and its a spot many people miss.
Organic cotton tee from Natasha Rose and a thrifted skirt.
Designer 24 lets you rent a dress complete with bag and accessories. I tried out the service when I was in Dubai and chose this gorgeous black and white dress along with the gold bag. The hardest part of the process was choosing which dress to rent. And if you are living in Dubai, it is possible that they can rent out your dress for you so it will no longer be gathering dust in the back of your closet. Win-Win!
I recommend checking out Retold – it’s a gorgeous new secondhand store full of women’s clothes – from casual to wedding dresses. Also on the secondhand front, there is a great app called Shedd which has all sorts of clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories from different sellers at super reasonable prices. Also, try Fashion Rerun which is an online company selling gently used clothes. The website is very clear and easy to use therefore perfect for those who don’t enjoy rummaging through secondhand clothing rails.
Organic cotton tee from Rapanui and a thrifted skirt.
Shopping consciously is easy when you are buying from a person or brand that has the same values as you. Check out Ragtrade who makes pretty linen clothes which are perfect for the Dubai climate! Update – Unfortunately they are no longer based in Dubai, but do offer worldwide shipping. And also Ohoy Swim produces swimwear from plastic and fishing nets found in the ocean.
For more ethical travel click here!
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About Me
The Green Edition is a journey to help slow down and appreciate the smaller things in life. With tips for shopping more consciously and simplifying your life.
About Me
The Green Edition is a journey to help slow down and appreciate the smaller things in life. With tips for shopping more consciously and simplifying your life.