Second Hand September (with monogramming)

Have you heard about Oxfam's Second Hand September initiative? According to Oxfam, "Second Hand September is a moment for all of us to come together to choose a more planet-friendly way to shop. There was a time when what we wore meant something. It said something about us and our community. But what does it mean today? A throwaway culture? Planet wrecking waste? This September, take a stance against the impact of fast fashion by shopping second hand. Reclaim what style stands for. Dress for the world you want to see."

We're big fans of second hand shopping here at Initially London, not least because it gives us an excuse to visit all the wonderful charity shops in and near Parsons Green... and there are lots! But we also love "thrifting" because you never know what treasure you will find.  Occasionally you'll come across something already monogrammed but often there is a find just begging for a little embellishment to make it uniquely yours in its second life. 

And even though September is coming to an end, the conversation of sustainability continues throughout the year. Shopping at local charity shops is no secret to giving a new life to clothing but the added element of monograming creates longevity as well as personality.  A simple motif or set of initials creates a way to communicate character to a piece of clothing which has been previously loved and worn by someone else. In a world where we now discard clothing so casually, to hold onto a piece that has your own personal stamp on is to be treasured.

Recently a client bought in a christening gown to embroidery. Being a second hand piece already she wanted to add her own history to such a beautiful garment. By embroidering her first child’s name and birthdate she will pass it down through generations, adding a piece of history each time.  We're often brought baby clothes that have been found barely worn in the local Faro Kids charity shop which we love to transform in to gorgeous personalised gifts.

                  

           

On your next visit to Parsons Green be sure to visit our favourite charity shops: