Have you set yourself the Veganuary challenge, but feel a bit lost and not sure where to start? Don’t worry, I got you. First of all, well done for taking the pledge – it’s no small feat to take on this challenge, especially if this is the first time you are trying veganism. Veganuary is a charity inspiring people to try vegan for January and throughout the rest of the year, if you want more information about Veganuary check out their website here.

Apart from cutting out meat, fish, dairy and all animal products from your diet, there are other things to consider too. For example, you won’t be able to wear leather or wool or any other animal derived material for the month. If you have loads of leather or are obsessed with fur, this might prove a tougher challenge for you than the diet side of Veganuary. I’ve put together a list of 10 things you can do to see you through the month – and possibly inspire you to make some of these changes more permanent!

1.  Switch your leather to faux or alternative leather

It’s never been easier to make the switch – no one will know the difference, you’ll save a shed load of cash and you’ll be making a positive difference in the world – win win win! There are so many alternatives; most brands now sell more faux leather than real. ASOS and Nasty Gal are two of my favourites for a quick faux-leather fix. This unbelievable vegan leather jacket by Nasty Gal is only £30! 

2. Try shopping at a charity shop or vintage store

Buying clothes that have already been given away is a great way to reduce the problem we have of mass production of clothing, and you can get a great bargain! 

3.  Try out a vegan restaurant

Treat yo self. Take this time to try out a new restaurant or café that’s vegan, you might find your new favourite! There are couple in Bristol that I’m hoping to try out soon including the East Village Café and 1847 (named after the year the Vegetarian society was started)

4. Accidentally vegan products

There’s nothing more satisfying than finding out your favourite food is already vegan! Check out the official Veganuary list of accidental vegan products here. Can you guess which one is my favourite??

5. Watch a vegan documentary or read a book

I loved “Cowspiracy” and “What the Health”, they both had so much information and facts about veganism that it’s hard for people to argue against it. They’re both available on Netflix. If reading is more your thing, I would recommend “Animal Liberation” by Peter Singer, it’s supposed to be one of the best books written on veganism. 

6. Support a vegan clothing company by buying a piece of clothing

It will show support to the company, give you a chance to explore different fashion brands you haven’t tried before and can act as a reward for all your hard work – who doesn’t need a bit of retail therapy!? Check out my page about my top vegan fashion brands for some inspiration!

7. Join a local vegan/vegetarian social group

I know it sounds like I’m trying to get you to join a support group but seriously a little bit of support and advice can go a long way! I know that when I first started veganism I felt lost and out of my depths, and I took all the advice I could get! Check out the Veganuary directory of local groups near you.  Find out more about the Bristol & West Country Vegetarian and Vegan page here

8. Swap your beauty products for vegan-cruelty-free! 

Just look for the ‘leaping bunny’ logo on products to be 100% sure it’s VCF. Cruelty-free Kitty has a great up-to-date list of all the brands they approve, check it out here! 

9. Follow vegan fashionistas on Instagram! 

If you love the Gram as much as I do, you might want to try and fill your feed with positive vegan influences? Some of my favourites are The Golden Grenadine, Waterthruskin, Consciousnchic and Onlybecauseilove. Just search their names on Instagram and enjoy J you can also follow me, if you don’t already, and I’ll follow back #InstaBuddiesForLife

10. Get a friend or family member to take the pledge with you

Not only will it make things easier for you to have someone taking on the challenge with you, but also you’ll have more fun if you have someone to share this experience with! You can meet up and go for a vegan coffee and cake, talk about what you’re finding difficult and help each other navigate Veganuary together.

I hope you’ve found this list useful and wish you the best of luck for your Veganuary! Any questions, get in contact with me via my contact page :) x