How To Get Involved This Secondhand September
It’s September, which means 2 important things. 1. It’s spring! 2. It marks the beginning of Secondhand September.
Secondhand September poses a simple question: Can you shop only secondhand for an entire month? With uptake of consumers shopping pre-loved, and the range of items available in these stores, this challenge has become widely accessible and for many, it’s already an established way of life.
However, Secondhand September isn’t just about what you do (or don’t) buy. The movement was founded by Oxfam in 2019 and has since become a global campaign that turns attention to conscious consumption and the social and environmental impact of shopping pre-loved. It encourages consumers to consider where their clothes have come from, and what impact their purchases have.
So, how can you get involved this Secondhand September?
Buy Secondhand
If you’re on the hunt for a new pair of jeans, or a new dress for spring, we can guarantee the racks of your local op shop have endless options for you. From brand-new-with-tags, to vintage from different eras, op shops are filled with one-of-a-kind treasures. If you’re an op shopping veteran, you would know the feeling of finding the perfect piece hidden amongst the shelves. If you’re a new op shopper, here are a few tips from us to you:
- Check every rack: Sometimes items get mixed up or put back onto the wrong rack. Or sometimes, the men’s section has some gems!
- Check fabric contents: We love natural fibers. Linen, cotton, wool and cashmere are great for your health, and for the planet. And, they have longer life spans which means more time in your wardrobe.
- Try things on: Op shops are perfect places for experimenting with your style, but you’ll never know if you don’t try! Utilise the time, space, and experience to try something new.
Shopping secondhand also extends to online platforms like Depop and eBay. You can shop thousands of pre-loved items from your couch, desk or on your lunchbreak!
Visit Your Local Op Shop
While we love to encourage shopping, a simple visit to your local op shop, or one you’ve never been to before, is a great way to kick-off your Secondhand September. Browse the racks, chat to the wonderful staff and volunteers, and enjoy the experience. Op shops are so much more than the goods that line the shelves. They are community spaces that encourage connection and conversation, all while boosting the circular economy and raising funds for charitable services and programs. Gathering some insight into the charitable organizations that are leading the secondhand charge is never time wasted. Bonus points if you make a purchase, of course.
Donate Your Quality Goods
Contributing to the circular economy isn’t limited to shopping. Secondhand September is a perfect time to make a donation to your local charitable reuse shop. Op shops rely on quality donations to keep the racks refreshed, and their doors open. Donating your quality goods is a key step in the circular economy and demonstrates the effectiveness of the closed loop model by reducing the amount of goods we send to landfill. Be sure to inspect all your donations for any damage, holes or stains before donating. Check the opening hours of your local op shop and ensure you are donating responsibly. Like we mentioned, it’s spring, so get spring cleaning!
Spread The Word
Whether you’re a shopper or shop manager, get involved in Secondhand September and spread the word. Tell your friends and family. Share lists of your favourite op shops, or your best tips. Take to social media to champion the movement. Education is a vital step in the continual growth of reuse and secondhand shopping. And be sure to expand your newfound conscious consumption past the month of September. Make it a habit and make secondhand your first choice.