Photo: Sane Seven
Photo: Sane Seven
Second Hand September
What we wear has power. Shop and donate for more joy, less waste and more funds to create a fairer future.
Katie, Volunteer at Oxfam Shop Putney. Amber Ahmad / Oxfam
What is Second Hand September?
Did you know, each year, up to 40% of all clothing manufactured globally is never sold? In a world of overproduction and overconsumption, Second Hand September is all about challenging yourself to create more sustainable shopping habits for a fairer future – without compromising on style.
The production of clothes uses so much of our planet’s precious resources, when millions of people around the world don’t have access to the basics like clean water.
But here’s the good news: small habits from all of us stack up and can make real change.
Every time you choose second hand – whether that’s buying a vintage tee or donating what you don't wear any more – you're making a statement. You’re dressing for the world you want.
“I have always been a fan of preloved clothing and own so much vintage. Items I have worn again and again over almost two decades. I think clothes are to be worn, cherished and adored.”
Jameela Jamil, actor and advocate
How do I get involved with Second Hand September?
Shop second hand with Oxfam
Second Hand September is the perfect time to shop online or explore your local Oxfam shop and discover one-of-a-kind treasures.
Take the fashion activism quiz
Challenge yourself to our fun fashion activism quiz to discover how style has sparked change and shaped history.
The hidden costs of our wardrobes
the amount of unworn clothes globally could almost stretch from Earth to Mars and back
unused items of clothes are currently owned by the UK population
of a UK clothing item's life is spent in the closet, only being worn for less than 5 days on average
Why Second Hand September?
Fashion is fabulous – but it’s also one of the most polluting industries on the planet.
As well as using so much of the planet’s clean water to produce, there’s mass pollution from the production and transportation of clothes. And a throwaway culture where mountains of clothes end up in landfill every year.
It’s all contributing to the climate crisis. Whilst people living in communities that are the least responsible for it are being pushed further into poverty. That’s why choosing second hand matters more than ever.
By recirculating clothes – buying, wearing and donating second hand – you’re giving fashion a longer life and cutting down the demand for new. And this can help to reduce the damage to our planet.
Plus, by shopping with Oxfam, you’re investing in the vital work our incredible partners and their local communities are doing around the world to fight climate change.
Photo: Sane Seven
Whoever decided it was scandalous to repeat an outfit is frankly an insecure, wasteful, clown.”
Jameela Jamil, actor and advocate
Who can take part in Second Hand September?
Whatever your style, whatever your budget, Second Hand September is for everyone. Over the past few years, thousands of people have taken up the challenge of dressing for the world they want to see.
You can find inspiration by searching #SecondHandSeptember on Instagram – it's full of photos of people sharing the second hand gems they’ve found.
You'll also discover great tips on the Oxfam blog.
Our partnerships celebrate all things pre-loved – from a star-studded fashion show to helping second hand clothes find new homes.
Oxfam shops and the Oxfam Online Shop aspire to be a driving force in sustainability. Learn more about our Retail Ethical and Environmental Strategy.