Words by Amy Packham
Secondhand fashion is not only good for the planet – it's good for your wallets, too. Which is why changing the narrative around preloved clothing is pretty important.
That's why Network Rail has been bringing secondhand clobber to train stations, thanks to a partnership with Shelter.
So, I can shop secondhand on my commute?
Yes! Well, people have been.
Shelter has developed a partnership with Network Rail and have been running a number of pop-up boutiques in London train stations. They handpick some great donated items and showcase them in a mobile boutique to use within the stations.
And why's this a good thing?
Everyone is looking for ways to be more sustainable right now, so Shelter wanted to show people how great shopping secondhand can be. The thing is, charity shops don’t have big marketing budgets, and often need more opportunities to showcase their pre-loved fashion.
So, they're targeting commuters! By attracting hundreds of people to each pop-up, it allows Shelter to introduce Shelter shops to new customers and gets the conversation started around sustainability.
Sounds great! Any other benefits?
Well, Network rail generously donated the spaces in the stations for free, as part of their Routes out of Homelessness charity partnership.
As part of Network Rail’s charter to tackle rough sleeping on the rail network, Shelter also works with Network Rail to support people who sleep rough in and around four major train stations to access accommodation.
Where can I visit one?
They've been pretty limited editing. The pop-up in Waterloo ran from 11-13 October, 18-20 October in London Bridge, and 25-27 October in Charing Cross.
But you can still shop secondhand, of course. Find your local store on Shelter's website.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Responsible Consumption and Production.
