Second hand wedding inspiration | Say 'I do' to second hand

Whether you picture yourself in a flowing gown, a sharp suit, or something entirely your own, second-hand bridal boutiques are full of possibilities.

You’ll find everything from contemporary designs to vintage treasures, giving you the freedom to choose pieces that truly reflect your style.

For some brides, a dress might not feel right – and that’s okay. A beautifully tailored suit or chic co-ord can look every bit as special, and shopping pre-loved means you can experiment with shapes, fabrics, and colours you might not have considered before.

It’s not just the main outfit that counts. From elegant veils and modern headpieces to sparkling jewellery and shoes you’ll actually want to wear again, second-hand shopping is a brilliant way to find those unique finishing touches.

And let’s not forget grooms or wedding guests – pre-loved suits and sets can be just as polished as brand-new, often at a fraction of the price.

Whether you prefer to shop online or in one of Oxfam's specialist wedding shops, choosing pre-loved isn’t only cost-effective, it’s a chance to create a look that’s completely your own.

We’ve all been there – opening the third wedding invite of the summer and doing a quick bit of mental maths: do I have enough annual leave for the stag/hen do and the wedding? Can I get a new outfit/shoes/tie and a decent wedding present?

Being a wedding guest is about celebrating in a way that feels true to you: comfortable, confident, and within your budget. Shopping second-hand is a good option to find an outfit that reflects your personality, without the pressure of spending too much. (And, in our opinion, you can always wear an outfit again.)

Pre-loved pieces open up endless options, whether you prefer bold prints, relaxed tailoring, soft pastels, or timeless neutrals. Because every item is one-of-a-kind, you’re free to choose something that feels like you rather than following the crowd. Floaty dresses, sharp blazers, or a well-cut jumpsuit it’s all about what makes you feel your best on the day.

Accessories can be the finishing touch that pulls everything together. A vintage handbag, comfortable heels you’ll wear again, or a standout piece of jewellery can give a simple outfit that extra lift.

If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, set yourself a challenge to put together a full look for under £30 (see this reel for inspiration).

Look for versatile pieces that can be worn again after the wedding, and don’t be afraid to mix different sections of the shop – sometimes the men’s rail or the kids’ accessories shelf hides a gem. A little creativity (and perhaps a simple alteration or two) can make a bargain piece feel tailor-made.

Second-hand finds can transform your wedding tables with character and charm. Vintage crockery, mismatched vases, and candle holders create a warm, welcoming look, while pre-loved linens add texture and colour. Mixing styles often makes the setting feel even more inviting.

Charity shop homeware sections are ideal for unique pieces and with a little DIY, everyday items can be re-purposed into something special.

Wedding décor ideas to try:

• Teacups as quirky candle holders
• Glass jars for rustic flower vases or fairy lights
• Vintage fabric turned into runners or bunting
• Mismatched candlesticks for a cosy glow
• Second-hand photo frames to frame pictures
• Mismatched china teapots used as vases for a playful centrepiece or even for afternoon tea

With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create tables that feel unique, sustainable, and full of personality.

If you’re a guest looking for a gift, second-hand, fair trade, charity gifts or handmade options are a thoughtful way to celebrate the couple without overspending.

Oxfam Unwrapped can be a great option for a couple who love to give back. Gift options include providing clean water to helping girls access safe education. Oxfam Unwrapped charity gifts also come with an illustration that can be framed as a reminder of the wedding and the cause supported.

Handmade or Fairtrade homeware gifts are trending and can be perfect to gift a new couple. Be inspired by our ethically sourced homeware collection from Sourced by Oxfam or try mix and matching a few second-hand items with foodie gifts from the Sourced by Oxfam range.

Wedding favours can reflect the same personal touch. Small tokens like a pack of sweets, seeds to plant, or fair trade chocolate make memorable keepsakes for guests.

A wedding filled with second hand treasures isn’t just beautiful – it’s meaningful, creative and full of personality. Every vintage gown, pre-loved accessory, and quirky décor piece tells some kind of story, helping your day feel truly unique.

By shopping second-hand for your wedding and telling your guests where you got that quirky plate or stunning pre-loved dress, you’re helping throw off some of the conventions that surround weddings so that others can feel free to celebrate in their own inimitable style!

From bridal pieces and wedding guest outfits to tableware, décor, and thoughtful gifts from Oxfam Unwrapped, shop second-hand on the Oxfam Online Shop or in your nearest high street shop.

• Oxfam Bridal – Find preloved wedding outfits and accessories online
• Oxfam Bridal Shops
• Oxfam Online Shop – Discover vintage homeware, décor and fashion treasures
• Oxfam Unwrapped Charity Gifts – Give meaningful gifts that make a difference
• Sourced by Oxfam – Explore ethically-sourced gifts