Winchester Pre-loved Fashion Show Supports Hospices
Charity Shop Chic Fashion Show returned for a fun evening of fashion in support of charities including Naomi House & Jacksplace. Organised by personal stylist and Winchester local, Sarah Sullivan, the evening welcomed fashion enthusiasts to inspire them to shop pre-loved and support local causes.
There were six fabulous outfits styled by Sarah for each charity taking part in the event. The outfits was also available for purchase in the special pop-up shops after the catwalk show. The evening raised an amazing £595 for our hospices to make a difference for children and young adults.
I came up with the idea of a fashion show, working with charities and pre-loved clothes as this has always been a passion of mine. The first show took place in a hotel meeting room, and we had a tiny cupboard sized room which the models had to change in! It was a great success and a lovely atmosphere. This year I took a moment to let it all sink in after the show - I reflected on how much bigger it has grown. All the people who gave up their time and how amazing that we held the show in such a central space in Winchester! This year felt like the best year yet and every year we raise more funds for the charities which is brilliant.
I always go to the shops to source the outfits with models' sizes in mind. I didn't have a particular theme in mind other than picking up some of the new season trends. I was spoilt for choice when I visited Naomi House & Jacksplace. There are always some amazing vintage pieces too and I picked out a stunning moss green velvet evening dress which our model August showcased beautifully and a retro print sleeveless dress which Louise wore over leggings as a jacket. I think these were my favourite looks.
I hope that if people have not shopped second hand before that they definitely will be inspired to do so after the show. I want to show people what amazing pieces you can find and how versatile they are. I also want to showcase the work that each charity does so that people understand what a difference it makes to shop second hand and support these fantastic causes. I hope we will continue to raise even more funds next year! A big thank you to Naomi House & Jacksplace and all the charities involved for their support and I look forward to doing it all over again!
During the evening, attendees enjoyed refreshments, got inspiration for their personal style and had a chance to shop from a variety of charity shop pop-up stalls. Volunteers came together from University of Winchester, Winchester School of Art and Sarah's friends, to create magic on the catwalk. The Brooks Shopping Centre generously got involved for the second year, by donating the venue and created a fun atmosphere with fun songs from their DJ.
Thank you to everyone involved for making this fantastic event come to life and inviting us to be a part of it for the third year in a row! Photo credits: Jenny @portraits_and_posing on Instagram.