Our Second Hand September Internal Clothes Swap

Second hand September highlights pre-owned clothing, encouraging people to commit to buying only secondhand items throughout the month. Initiated by Oxfam, the pledge aims to shift the focus from Fashion Week, typically linked to this time of year, and inspire shoppers to choose preloved fashion over new trends for the upcoming Autumn/Winter season.

Overproduction and overconsumption in the fashion industry are significant contributors to environmental degradation. The industry follows a "take, make, dispose" model, where vast amounts of non-renewable resources are used to produce clothing, much of which is discarded after a short lifespan. This leads to excessive waste, with an estimated 92 million tonnes of textiles ending up in landfills or being incinerated each year. Fast fashion exacerbates the issue by encouraging a culture of disposable clothing, driving continuous demand for new items.

We did the eco-friendly Clothes Swap event at work on Thursday. This is a fantastic opportunity to refresh your wardrobe whilst promoting sustainability. We brought gently used clothes that no longer spark joy for us and exchanged them for new-to-you items from our colleagues.

In addition to swapping clothes, any unclaimed items will be donated to Oxfam to support individuals in need, ensuring contributions are going towards a good cause.

The rise of fast fashion has normalised overconsumption and disposable clothing, but as consumers, we have the ability to change this. By extending the lifespan of garments, we can push back against the throwaway culture and prevent clothing from ending up in landfills or incinerators. Understanding how to care for your clothes properly is crucial, as it extends their lifespan. By learning how to maintain and preserve your garments, you're making an investment in your wardrobe and minimising the need for new purchases.

Here are some tips on how to care for your second hand clothes:

1. It might seem simple, but don’t forget to read the care label! Familiarise yourself with the symbols on your clothing tags and take the time to care for your garments.
2. Air dry your clothes – it's not only eco-friendly but also better for their longevity! Research indicates that tumble drying can cause considerable damage, leading to shrinkage and fabric wear over time.
3. Clothes need breathing space too, especially those with natural fibres such as cotton, linen, silk and wool. It’s important that they’re stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to prevent mildew.
4. Hanging clothes helps maintain their shape and keeps them wrinkle-free, but be sure to use wooden or padded hangers. For heavier items like sweaters, it's better to fold them to avoid stretching.

This event helps reduce waste, minimise our environmental footprint, and foster a culture of sharing within the office. Together, we can make a difference—both for the planet and those in need!