Monthly Spotlight

Second Hand September was launched by Oxfam in 2019 as part of its ongoing effort to promote sustainable fashion and reduce the environmental impact of clothing production. It is an annual campaign that encourages people to avoid buying new clothes for the entire month of September.

The campaign aims to shift consumer behaviour towards more mindful shopping practices and to support second-hand markets as a key part of the solution to the fashion industry’s waste problem, as well as raising awareness about the environmental impact of fast fashion and to promote more sustainable ways of consuming fashion, such as embracing second-hand shopping.

Since its inception, the campaign has grown into a global movement, with thousands of participants joining each year to challenge the norms of fast fashion. By participating, you can reduce waste, support second-hand markets, and contribute to the global effort to slow down the harmful effects of overproduction and overconsumption in the fashion industry.

With the fashion industry being one of the largest contributors to pollution, the campaign highlights the importance of reducing demand for new clothing and choosing pre-loved items instead. The campaign also supports circular fashion, which aims to extend the life of garments, reduce textile waste, and lessen the industry’s environmental footprint.

How to Get Involved

Here are several ways you can take part in Second Hand September and make a positive impact:

• Shop Second-Hand: Visit local charity and vintage shops, or explore online marketplaces such as E-bay or Vinted, to find unique, pre-loved fashion items. By buying second-hand, you reduce demand for new clothes and help to keep textiles out of landfills.

• Host a Clothing Swap or Swish: Organise a clothing swap or swish event with friends, family, or your community. Swapping clothes is a fun and sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe without having to buy anything new.

• Repair and Reuse: Instead of discarding damaged clothes or household items, learn basic sewing, take your items to a tailor or local repair café, repairing garments helps reduce waste and promotes a more sustainable lifestyle. There are repair cafés in Louth, Bourne and Wisbech.

• Donate Unwanted Clothes: If you have clothes you no longer wear, consider donating them to charities. Donating helps extend the life cycle of clothing and supports communities in need. As part of Oxfam and Marks and Spencer's 'Another Life' scheme, people can give their unwanted clothes a second life and get a £5 voucher to spend in return.

• Raise Awareness: Share your Second Hand September journey on social media, using hashtags and encouraging others to join the movement. Highlight the benefits of second-hand shopping and sustainable fashion choices. #Secondhandseptember

Find out more about how to get involved at www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved