This holiday season, Oxfam is urging shoppers to embrace pre-loved party outfits, not only to save money but to help protect the planet. The charity’s latest survey revealed that nearly 30% of adults admit to wearing their new festive clothes just once.
Oxfam’s research highlights the environmental impact of fast fashion, calculating that if every adult in the UK opted for second-hand holiday attire, it could prevent 66 million kilograms of harmful emissions—equivalent to 822 flights from London to the North Pole.
Lorna Fallon, Oxfam’s retail director, emphasized that dressing up for the holidays shouldn’t come at the cost of the environment. “You can look great without harming the planet,” she said.
According to the survey, 47% of shoppers buy new outfits for festive occasions as a treat to themselves. However, the findings also showed concerning stats about new clothing purchases:
- 29% of people wore their festive party outfit only once.
- 40% wore it just two or three times.
- A surprising 7% never wore the outfit they bought.
Oxfam’s survey also revealed that 73% of Brits purchasing new outfits for the holidays expect to spend between £10 and £60.
By opting for second-hand outfits at Oxfam, shoppers can find a unique and beautiful ensemble while supporting the planet and raising funds to fight global poverty and inequality. Fallon pointed out, “It’s a win-win situation.”
Supermodel Eunice Olumide, who promotes sustainable fashion, echoed the call for conscious shopping. “You can find show-stopping pieces just as fabulous by shopping second-hand, all while helping the environment,” she shared.
Source: BBC News
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