5 ways to be Second Hand Savvy

by Emily Thompson

This September, swap fast fashion for pre-loved. Here's why clothing waste matters — and 5 easy ways to shop second hand, all year round.

What is Second Hand September?

Second Hand September was initiated by Oxfam in 2019. The idea is simple: for 30 days, only buy pre-loved clothing, and donate items you no longer need. The aim is to raise awareness of the environmental impact of clothing — and to make the conscious choice to keep clothes out of landfill.

Why does this matter?

We buy far more clothing today than we did a couple of decades ago. Fashion ‘seasons’ have essentially disappeared, as brands now release new items constantly to match demand. This appetite for fast fashion has led to lower-quality items — and vast environmental and social impacts.

In the UK, we throw away an estimated 300,000–350,000 tonnes of clothing every year. Many items are worn only a handful of times before being discarded. From there, they're sent to landfill or to developing nations — though lower-quality items often aren't usable once they arrive.

Making that discarded clothing also uses vast amounts of resources:

•        2,700 litres of water to make one cotton t-shirt

•        10,000 litres of water to make one pair of jeans — the disappearance of the Aral Sea is a stark example of cotton's impact

•        10% of global carbon emissions come from the fashion industry, much of it from manufacturing and transporting textiles from Asia

By taking part in Second Hand September, you'll cut the waste of vital resources, carbon emissions, and clothing sent to landfill.

Why go second hand?

Second hand shopping has plenty of benefits beyond the environment. You'll be part of the circular economy — keeping items in use for longer, and reducing waste and demand on limited resources. Pre-loved clothing is also often made from better-quality material: more comfortable, longer-lasting, and easier to repair. (Today, two-thirds of clothes are made from polyester — a fossil-fuel derivative that sheds microplastics and isn't as breathable.)

You'll also find quirky, vintage and one-off pieces to build your own style — and pay a lot less for them.

So, how can you become second hand savvy this September — and maybe for good?

1. Buy and sell online

Buying and selling online has become increasingly popular. Vinted, eBay and Depop are among the most popular sites and apps, depending on what you're after. Next time you need an item of clothing, search these platforms before your usual shops. If something doesn't fit or suit you, sell it on again or pass it to a friend.

2. Charity shops & thrift stores

Charity shops have been around for decades, and now line most high streets. You can donate and buy here, knowing your money supports a good cause. Unlike buying online, you can try items on the spot — no postage needed.

3. Car boot sales & flea markets

If you have time to browse a car boot or flea market, you'll almost certainly find a bargain. It's also a great option if you have a surplus of unwanted clothing to sell. Locally, you'll find car boots at Winchester, Weyhill, Table Top and The Gratton, among others.

4. Give to friends and family

Sometimes we have items that no longer fit, or that we just don't wear. Before the clothing bank or the bin, ask friends and family first — or organise a clothes swap over cake and coffee. It's good for the planet, and good for your wallet.

5. Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups where you can find second hand clothes, or donate and sell your own. We have our very own Free for Whitchurch and Overton group, which is a great way to find and give any unwanted items for free. Facebook Marketplace has also grown hugely for local swaps and sales — usually at low cost, or free.

In summary

Taking part in Second Hand September adds up to a huge impact, especially when we all get involved — and it's not just clothing. You'll find furniture, household items, toys and books through all the routes above too. Change happens when everyone takes part, and your wallet has more power than you think.

Ready to get started? Find out more here: https://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved/second-hand-september/ and don't forget to share your second-hand finds with Sustainable Overton.]