Oxfam’s Second Hand September is back and Putney’s branch is hoping it’ll be one of the busiest times of the year for local shoppers and donations.
Staff and volunteers at the shop on Putney High Street are asking local people to consider donating anything they haven’t worn for the past year, and to pop in for a pre-loved browse.
Putney Manager Lucy, says: “There are so many options for buying second hand now, but you still can’t beat a good rummage in a charity shop. You never know what you might find, and quite often you end up leaving with something you didn’t expect. That’s the joy of it.
“Charity shops like ours are important in helping to tackle the impact of fast fashion, and we rely on our local community to keep our shelves stocked. We love seeing our regulars, but we’d also love to welcome some new faces through the door this September.”
Katie Budenberg who volunteers at Putney Oxfam, adds: “I wear second hand clothes all year round and I always get compliments on my outfits. I think pre-loved fashion is unique and it’s a great way of experimenting with your style. I love helping people in the shop but we rely on donations I’m hoping this is going to be a busy month for us as people in Putney embrace Second Hand September.”
Actor Richard E. Grant will be appearing on Oxfam posters in shops across the capital this September as he encourages people across the UK to discover original second-hand style, give garments a longer life and make their fashion choices count.
‘I’m supporting Second Hand September because we’ve already got too much of everything. Reusing and upcycling clothing – second hand, vintage, call it what you like – is an amazing, worthwhile cause. Original style isn’t about buying more. It’s about finding pieces with a story, keeping them for as long as you can, and passing them on for someone else to discover.’
Rachel Cosgrove-Pearce, Oxfam’s Head of Retail Operations, said: “Oxfam is the original Second Hand retailer. We’ve been selling quality pre-loved fashion since 1947 and that success is down to people supporting our local shops. Every donation makes a difference, and while we’re grateful for the fantastic support we receive throughout the year, September is a particularly important time for our shops. We’re looking for plenty of good-quality clothes to help keep the rails full and give local shoppers a great choice of pre-loved fashion.
“Second Hand September is a brilliant reminder that small changes can have a big impact. By donating clothes you no longer wear or choosing to shop second hand, you’re helping to reduce textile waste, support Oxfam’s work and do something positive for the planet.
“If you’re in Putney we’d love to welcome you into your local Oxfam shop—whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re already a regular. And if you’ve been meaning to clear out your wardrobe, there’s no better time to pass on those quality items and help make a difference.”