Secondhand September: Embrace Sustainable Fashion with Oxfam’s UK Campaign
- Leah Solmaz
- Sep 6
- 2 min read
September is more than the gateway to autumn, it’s also a powerful moment to reassess our relationship with clothing. Spearheaded by Oxfam, Secondhand September is a nationwide movement across the UK, encouraging individuals to ditch fast fashion for 30 days and embrace the circular economy instead.
Why Secondhand September Matters
The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters globally, responsible for up to 10% of global carbon emissions. From textile waste to unethical labour practices, the cost of fast fashion extends far beyond our wardrobes. Secondhand September offers a simple but significant act of resistance: buying nothing new for an entire month.
It’s not about sacrifice, it’s about intention. Choosing pre-loved garments reduces demand for virgin materials, lowers landfill waste, and disrupts harmful production cycles. It’s a small change that echoes loudly.
Ways to Participate
Shop Secondhand: Whether it’s charity shops, vintage markets, or online platforms like Vinted and Depop, there are more options than ever to find stylish, affordable pieces with history and character.
Clothes Swaps: Host a local clothes swap or attend one. It’s community-driven, cost-effective, and great for meeting like-minded people.
Upcycle & Repair: Give new life to old favourites. Repairing and customising clothes supports longevity and creativity.
Educate Yourself: Learn about fashion’s impact on people and planet. The more we know, the better we shop.
What This Means for Ethical Brands
At a time when sustainability messaging can feel performative, movements like Secondhand September anchor us in authentic, grassroots action. For ethical fashion brands, this is an opportunity to align with a larger mission not through sales, but through storytelling, transparency, and support.
The Cove Lifestyle Store: A South West Alternative
By promoting campaigns like Secondhand September, The Cove stands behind slow fashion values while actively funding environmental impact. This isn’t just about clothing. It’s about community, coastline and conservation.
Who We Are & How You Can Help
The Cove Discovery Project is a conservation-focused Community Interest Company based in South Devon, working to protect marine wildlife through education, outreach, and habitat awareness. From seal rescues to coastal clean-ups, we’re dedicated to helping local ecosystems thrive.
You can support our mission by visiting our lifestyle store in Brixham or shopping online every purchase funds our ongoing conservation work and promotes ethical, sustainable living.
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