We’ve always loved op shops in Australia, and now a new generation is embracing second-hand clothing. Over the past 30 years, the secondhand threads that were previously seen as a budget-conscious choice have become something people actively choose because it's more sustainable and can be a unique fashion statement.
This National Recycling Week, 9 to 15 November, Vinnies NSW is standing alongside Planet Ark as a Community Partner as they launch the ReWear It collection. ReWear It is a curated assortment of items built entirely from clothes donated to Vinnies stores, specifically to celebrate National Recycling Week’s 30th anniversary.
The collection includes finds like a floral Country Road dress, a vintage blazer, Sass & Bide wide-leg pants, and a pair of Steve Madden boots among much more, proving pre-loved can be fashionable.
“The ReWear It collection has been created to showcase the quality, style, and longevity of pre-loved fashion,” said Gemma Presley, Retail Experience and Brand Manager, Vinnies NSW.
“Through ReWear It, we're encouraging Australians to rethink their relationship with fashion and embrace clothing as a resource rather than a disposable commodity. The collection highlights the value that already exists within our wardrobes and communities, proving that great style doesn't have to come at the expense of the planet.”
Vinnies NSW stores have giving donated goods a second life for over a century. Image: Vinnies NSW
It’s been over a century since Vinnies stores started giving donated goods a second life and diverting valuable resources from landfill. Last financial year, Vinnies' 220-plus shops across NSW served 4.8 million customers and sold over 12 million items, of which three million pieces were women's clothing. They received and sorted just under 3.4 million kilograms of donated textiles, keeping many of these items out of landfill.
The funds generated from second-hand sales support people experiencing hardship in communities across the country. Vinnies NSW Members supported 106,595 people last year, handing out $16.2 million in financial and material aid across more than 100 programs and services.
Who knows what vintage find you might come across at a Vinnies NSW shop. Image: Vinnies NSW
ReWear It lives on Vinnies Finds, the online shop Vinnies NSW runs out of a warehouse in Stanmore. Hundreds of new pieces go up there every day, from vintage designer labels to everyday basics. It's the simplest way to check what's already out there before buying something new.
Australia sends hundreds of thousands of tonnes of textiles to landfill every year. One collection won't fix that on its own, but this might be your perfect opportunity to check out what thrifting could add to your wardrobe.
Switch to second-hand shopping this National Recycling Week and beyond!
Browse the ReWear It collection at vinniesfinds.com.au and find out how to get involved in National Recycling Week at nationalrecyclingweek.com.au.