Why #SecondHandSeptember is Such an Important Fashion Challenge

Last month I learned that well known charity store Oxfam was running a fashion challenge throughout September, entitled: “Second Hand September”. Joining the campaign means that you pledge to not buy any new clothes for 30 days! I think this is a fantastic challenge, here’s why…

Loved Clothes Last

You may remember back in 2017 I pledged to quit shopping for 1 whole year. Instead, I learned to upcycle and repair clothes and fashion items in my existing wardrobe. It was a really valuable experience and one that I certainly haven't forgotten. I still use those skills and techniques that I learned during that year today. My Ethical Style Project, as the challenge was named, completely changed my attitude towards shopping for clothes as well as many of my followers'. Oxfam's #SecondHandSeptember reminds me of my project and therefore I decided to sign up. If you've never shopped in a second hand shop before, here is my quick guide on where to start.

What is #SecondHandSeptember?

What is Second Hand September and why should you support it? Second Hand September is the name of the waste-free fashion campaign organised by Oxfam. The idea of the challenge is that you pledge to not by any new clothes for the duration of September. Using the hashtag #SecondHandSeptember on Twitter and Instagram, you can share your great second hand fashion finds to show that you're getting involved in the challenge.
Every week 11 million items of clothing end up in landfills. This is hugely damaging to the planet and the majority of the time, this textile waste is completely unnecessary. Often, the clothing we waste or throw away could be put to better use, such as donated to a second hand shop or elsewhere. However, the honest and harsh truth is that they were a hasty, mistake purchase in the first place. I strongly advise you to pay attention to what you buy and only purchase items that you love, need and will actually wear!

Follow Me Throughout the #SecondHandSeptember Challenge

Over the years I have purchased some fantastic pieces from second hand stores over the years. Now, throughout the duration of Oxfam's #SecondHandSeptember challenge, I am going to be sharing with you my daily 'second hand outfit of the day' over on my Instagram. So make sure that you go and follow me to check out the amazing assortment of outfits and fashion pieces you can discover in second hand shops.