Oxfam is inviting people in Manchester to see their clothes differently, with a two-day sustainable fashion takeover designed to show how pre-loved and worn clothes can be given a new lease of life.
A fifth (20%) of unwanted clothes are thrown away with the North West’s general household waste, rather than being repaired, donated or resold, according to new research from Oxfam.
The findings, published in the charity’s inaugural State of Style report, reveal a cycle of impulse buys, one-wear outfits and unwanted clothes piling up in Britain’s wardrobes – as millions try to buy less, but face a system selling more.
Taking place at Oxfam’s Superstore at Manchester Fort Shopping Park on Tuesday 22 September, as part of the charity’s Second Hand September campaign, the programme will launch the first-ever Big North Styling Challenge, hosted by the University of Manchester and Oxfam.
Fashion fans can sign up to have a pre-loved styling masterclass from Sam Loat, founder and stylist of internationally distributed menswear magazine nathan. Sam will share his tips on finding standout second-hand pieces, building a more sustainable wardrobe and interpreting current fashion trends through pre-loved clothing.
In teams, participants will then put those tips to the test, working to create an Autumn/Winter 2026-inspired look using only second-hand clothes and accessories sourced from the Oxfam Superstore. The winning outfits, selected by Sam, will be displayed in Oxfam’s shop window, showcasing the creative potential of pre-loved fashion.
The following day, on Wednesday 23 September, Oxfam is hosting a hands-on visible mending and upcycling workshop will give Mancunians the chance to learn simple sashiko-inspired stitching techniques to repair worn or damaged clothing – turning repairs into design features rather than reasons to throw clothes away.
Together, the events offer a practical alternative to the cycle of buying more and throwing away what we already own – showing how clothes can be styled, repaired and re-loved rather than replaced.
Neve Carnes, who is organising the Great North Styling Challenge for Oxfam, said: “These collaborative events are about helping people see second-hand fashion differently. With so many great clothes already in circulation, shopping pre-loved is a chance to express your style, discover unique pieces and get creative with what already exists.
“Whether it’s styling a standout second-hand find, making a simple repair or reimagining something in your wardrobe, we want to show that sustainable fashion can be fun, affordable and full of possibilities.”
Aurelie Le Normand, from the University of Manchester, added: “This initiative is about changing perceptions, building confidence in sustainable choices, and inspiring people to see the value and potential in preloved fashion.”
No previous styling or sewing experience is required, with both events designed to be practical and beginner-friendly.
How to get involved
Tickets cost £5 per person, with proceeds donated to Oxfam’s work tackling poverty and inequality around the world. There are 20 places available at each event.
There’s more information on both events, and the opportunity to sign up, here.
