Second Hand September 2025

Did you know, each year, up to 40% of all clothing manufactured globally is never sold? In a world of overproduction and overconsumption, Second Hand September is all about challenging yourself to create more sustainable shopping habits for a fairer future – without compromising on style.

Oxfam

Charity shop shopping is one of my passions. I love the idea of finding a bargain, whether it be a good quality basic that will work hard in my wardrobe, a vintage treasure like no other, or even the perfect accessory that will just make an outfit.

Second hand September is all about raising awareness, getting you to look at what’s out there in the preloved marketplace, and maybe helping you to avoid adding to landfill by buying new, even just for one month.

This post is dedicated to showing you just what you can find preloved, whether it be for yourself, or for your home.

What to look for?

Skirts! I love skirts, possibly even more than I love dresses. My favourite styles have a vintage look, with, preferably, an elasticated waistband. I look for vintage labels like St Michael, Berkatex and Honor Millburn, or for designs that look vintage, even though they are actually fairly new and modern.

Accessories

We all know that good accessories can change an outfit, and you can find some brilliant ones in charity shops. My personal fave places to look are Acorns shops – they usually have good shoes and handbags, and St Giles shops which have a great range of jewellery, including vintage necklaces.

Look for 1950s brooches. These are usually cheap but can change the whole look of a jacket or dress. Large scarves can also be a great buy as they are so versatile. I picked the parrot scarf up last month and wore it as both a scarf and a sarong at the beach.

Vintage

Shopping for vintage in charity shops can be very rewarding. It is often far cheaper than dedicated vintage or antique shops, although you do have to look a little bit harder. All the pieces below were found in charity shops, including my own 70s peach skirt, polo neck and 1950s bow brooch.

Pretty Home Accessories

Charity shop shopping is not just about fashion, you can also pick up some amazing bargains for the home too.

If you have never looked in a charity shop, make September 2025 the month that this changes, and look out for further posts on Fashion-mommy showing my own preloved finds.

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