Erin Doherty shares her favourite independent shops and small businsesses

As we learn more about sustainability and fashion's impact on the planet, we're constantly discovering new ways to improve our habits as consumers. From shopping from responsible brands to opting for secondhand where we can and using rental services if possible, there are plenty of options for us to do our bit in reducing fashion's mark left on the world.

Another way we can help is by supporting smaller businesses, rather than buying from bigger companies that usually have bigger production processes – which means more waste.

British actress Erin Doherty – known for her roles as Princess Anne in the third and fourth series of The Crown and in BBC thriller Chloe – is passionate about supporting independent businesses and wants to encourage others to do the same.

"I decided to work with American Express on their Shop Small campaign as I think now more than ever we need to support small businesses and show huge love and appreciation for the courageous people who have put time and effort into creating them," she tells Bazaar. The campaign, running from 3 - 12 December, allows American Express Cardmembers to earn £5 back whenever they spend £15 at participating small businesses.

Doherty, who lives in Brighton, explains that by shopping small, she feels like she's working with others and giving back. "We're so lucky to have everything you could imagine on our doorstep and there’s a real sense of community among all the small, independent businesses that populate my local area," she notes. "Working together to support these shops in whichever way we can, is a fantastic way to give back to our communities and preserve the unique neighbourhood vibe that is so important.

"Growing up in West Sussex, my family’s local high street was the heart of our community. I have many fond memories of small, independent businesses that were so charming and welcoming. Supporting these businesses always contributed so much to the wellness of our community."

Here, Doherty shares her favourite independent businesses to shop from, in the hope that it might inspire you to do the same.