As September begins, it’s time to kick-start a month dedicated to sustainable shopping choices. We’re proud to support Oxfam’s Second Hand September campaign, a movement that encourages people to say no to new clothes for 30 days and embrace second-hand alternatives instead.
Why choose second-hand?
Shopping second-hand can make a real impact both to the environmental and charities like ours, which supports people out of homelessness. By opting for pre-loved items, you’re reducing the demand for fast fashion, which is a significant contributor to environmental degradation. Not only does second-hand shopping help in cutting down on waste, but it also reduces the carbon footprint associated with producing new items. At Emmaus Bristol, we are committed to sustainability through reuse, recycling and upcycling in our social enterprises. We saved 73 tonnes of items from entering the waste stream between July 2023 and June 2024!
Shop for a cause
At Emmaus Bristol, we offer more than just second hand clothing in our Stokes Croft, Bedminster and eBay shops; you can also discover a wide range of furniture, homeware, books, and more. Each purchase helps support our mission to provide accommodation, training and meaningful work experience for formerly homeless people. When you shop with us, you’re not just saving money; you’re helping save the planet and support a good cause at the same time.
Second-hand vs. fast fashion
The fashion industry is one of the richest on the planet, estimated to be worth over $770 billion (Statista, 2024); but it’s also one of the most polluting, with fossil fuels burned at every stage of production. Mass-produced clothes not only deplete natural resources but often end up in landfill after a few wears. In contrast, second-hand shopping promotes a circular economy. It extends the life of garments, reduces waste, and is more sustainable.
Fashion Revolution’s ‘What Fuels Fashion’ Report revealed:
- Nearly a quarter of the world’s biggest fashion brands disclose nothing on decarbonisation, signifying that the climate crisis is not a priority for them.
- The fashion industry is lagging significantly in achieving climate targets and reducing emissions, with 86% of companies lacking a public coal phase-out target, 94% without a public renewable energy target, and 92% without a public renewable electricity target for their supply chains.
- The fashion industry is evading accountability both for churning out excessive amounts of clothing and the associated emissions released into the atmosphere.
- So-called ‘sustainable’ clothes may still be produced using fossil fuels.
Visit the Fashion Revolution website to read the report in full. The site has a wealth of eye-opening information and campaigns available, plus information on how you can get involved and take action against fast fashion and the impact it is having on our planet.
Tips for successful second-hand shopping
Ready for some second hand shopping? Here are some tips to help you…
- Keep an open mind: You might be searching for a specific item but be open to unexpected finds!
- Check regularly: Stock changes often, so visit your favourite second-hand shops regularly. Stock at Emmaus Bristol changes almost daily, so there are always new items to see.
- Get creative: Don’t be afraid to alter or upcycle items to give them a personal touch. If you know basic repairs like how to sew on a button, fix a hem or sand a piece of furniture, it can expand your choices!
- Know your sizes: Vintage and second hand clothing may have different sizing standards. Take your measurements and bring a tape measure to check items. This doesn’t just apply to clothing – if you’re shopping for furniture, make sure you know that it will fit in your home! At Emmaus Bristol, we have changing rooms for you to try on clothes and our team can help you measure furniture items.
- Shop online: Many second-hand shops, including Emmaus Bristol, offer online shopping options. Visit our eBay shop to browse from home.
- Follow charity shops on social media: Charity shops will often have sales and post pictures of new stock and by following them on social media, you won’t miss out! Follow Emmaus Bristol on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
- Donate and swap: Keep the cycle going by donating items you no longer need or organise a swap event with friends.
Join the Second Hand September fun with us!
We would love if our customers got involved too. Share your favourite second-hand purchases from Emmaus Bristol by tagging us and using the hashtags #SecondHandSeptember and #EmmausBristolStyle.
For Second Hand September this year, we are getting involved by celebrating our love for second-hand finds! Throughout the month, our staff and companions will be sharing their favourite second-hand finds, on social media. Keep an eye on our channels to see their pictures!
