Shining a spotlight on sustainable style
With this week marking Sustainable Fashion Week, we are celebrating our fantastic charity shops and boutiques across South Devon. This week is all about raising awareness of the issues with fast fashion and encouraging small changes we can make to shop more sustainably without sacrificing style. One of the key ways we can do this is by buying second-hand. Our charity shops, along with our digital marketplace, Ella’s Vintage, offer a wide range of beautiful clothing and household items. Discover how second-hand shopping can make a meaningful difference as Caroline Wannell, Rowcroft’s Head of Retail, reveals the benefits and highlights the wonderful range of pre-loved items available in our shops.
The hidden costs of fast fashion
“Fast fashion is taking a toll on both the planet and people,” says Caroline. “With new trends emerging almost every day, clothing is produced at lightning speed and sold at low prices. This constant availability of the latest fashions with inexpensive price tags can make it easy to buy more than we need, wear items only a few times, and then toss them out. The production of these clothes uses tons of water, energy and harmful chemicals that damage the environment. On top of that, many garments are made in factories where workers face unfair conditions and low wages. However, we can make a difference! By making small, sustainable choices, we can start moving away from the cycle of fast fashion.”
The power of second-hand shopping
“Charity shopping is one way to go green and make a positive impact. When you buy second-hand, you’re not just bagging unique pieces—you’re giving pre-loved clothing a second chance. This helps keep perfectly good clothes and household items out of landfills. Plus, by supporting a circular economy where items are reused and repurposed, you’re helping to reduce the carbon footprint from the production and shipping of new products. It’s a simple, stylish way to shop sustainably!
“Rowcroft’s wonderful shops and boutiques across South Devon are treasure troves of fashionable pre-loved items. Whether you’re looking for gorgeous women’s, men’s or children’s clothing and accessories, or homeware, books, toys and electricals, you’re sure to find something one-of-a-kind! Our Paignton and Preston shops even offer furniture, and there’s a choice of white goods available in Paignton too. You can also browse a wide selection of pre-loved clothing and vintage items online with Rowcroft! Our Etsy, Ebay and Vinted stores are packed with stylish clothing and household items waiting to be discovered.”
Fabulous finds at Rowcroft
“With winter approaching and the crisp air of autumn settling in, we are pleased to present our latest seasonal collection. Why not visit one of our shops or browse our digital marketplace for a unique selection of preloved coats, jumpers, and knitwear to help keep you cosy and chic throughout the colder months. You might just find the perfect pre-loved coat to keep you stylish and snug through winter!”
Donating to our shops
“We gladly welcome all donations of saleable quality goods to our shops. Every item you donate will make a difference, helping us all embrace a more sustainable way to stay stylish. We’re so grateful to our wonderful donors and customers, because every time you donate to or shop at Rowcroft, you’re not only making an environmentally friendly choice, but you’re also supporting the hospice to continue caring for our community.”
For details on our shop opening times and how to donate your pre-loved items, please visit this page.