Words by Katie Porter

We all know that charity shopping can lead us to finding some real gems, with vast options for charity shopping in Brighton being a notable aspect of the city. Over the holiday season, we can all try to be more ethical with our purchasing, foregoing the shiny Churchill Square high street shops for some charity shopping in town and beyond. Brighton is rich with options for up-cycled, ethical garments. From vintage to charity shopping, you are bound to find something that suits your style. Charity shopping is a great way to reduce the amount of money and waste going into Christmas gifts or stocking up on winter clothes.

For a good budget gift or addition to your own wardrobe and home, most Brighton charity shops have amazing vintage homeware and clothing. Shabitat, next to Aldi, is particularly lauded by Brighton residents. Martlets on the Old Shoreham Road is a highly recommended organisation, as they offer clothes and trinkets for just one pound each. In Hove, Blatchington Road is also mentioned a lot for its charity shops on offer, especially the Oxfam bookshop. One of Brighton’s own charity shops, Friends of Brighton and Hove Hospitals on George’s Street, Kemptown, was even named one of the UK’s best charity shops by Vogue Magazine, making this a worthy visit. 

As you can see, there are so many ethical places in Brighton for your holiday shopping, or any other time. The notorious Snoopers Paradise in North Laine specialises in vintage homeware and clothing. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, having a look around will make for some weird and wonderful discoveries. For fans of this spot, Diplock’s Yard on North Road is similar but slightly less well known. 

You can also make decluttering or donating to charity a fun activity with flatmates – going through each other’s wardrobes and trading items, voting on which items to keep or throw, etc. makes for a great rainy-day activity. The Sussex Beacon Charity will pick up large donations so you don’t have to carry the items you are donating yourself. 

Investing in better quality, staple pieces which will make a home in your wardrobe forever, not just this trend cycle. Spending more – but less frequently – will encourage you to evaluate if a purchase will be a clothing soulmate or just a fling for the season. A method which is particularly useful for de-cluttering your uni accommodation or home is a one-in-one-out policy. Every time you buy a new item of clothing, find a way to ‘up-cycle’ a piece you no longer wear so often. Perhaps gifting to a friend, listing on a reselling app (eBay, Depop, Vinted etc.), or even repurposing or redesigning an item to better suit your current style. 

A de-cluttered wardrobe is a de-cluttered mind. Having fewer items orbiting your space enhances your sense of clarity and organisation. So while it might sound silly, sorting your clothes might even help improve your academic mindset as we enter exam season. Thinking of each item of clothing as an investment is a good approach to shopping, as it will make you consider the quality and origins of your pieces. With the new year, Christmas and exam season all approaching, there is no better time to revamp your approach to buying and gifting.

Featured Image Courtesy of Prudence Earl

Categories: Local Life

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