Second-Hand September
September’s here, and so is the Second-Hand September Challenge – a global call by Oxfam to ditch fast fashion and embrace pre-loved treasures all month long.
Clothes are awesome – they keep us warm, help us express who we are, and sometimes even feel like superpowers. But here’s the tricky part: making clothes uses up a lot of the planet’s energy and water.
For example, creating just one T-shirt can take as much water as 70 showers 🚿🚿🚿. And every year, mountains of clothes that could still be worn end up burned or buried instead of reused. That’s like throwing treasure in the trash! 🗑️💔
In France, nearly 9 out of 10 clothes aren’t recycled. In Switzerland, people are doing a bit better — many clothes get collected and reused — but still, way too many items disappear into the waste system.
The good news? You have the power to change this! Every time you swap, thrift, rewear, or DIY, you’re giving clothes a second life and giving the Earth a little breather. Imagine if every kid became a fashion hero for just one month… the planet would feel lighter already. 🌍💚
So are you ready to be a part of this challenge with your kids?
Here's 5 playful ways to dive in & enjoy it!
1 - Closet treasure hunt
Peek into your closet like a detective! Find clothes you love, and spot the ones you never wear. Those forgotten pieces? Swap with a friend, donate, or give them a new adventure.
2 - DIY Lab
Grab scissors, markers, patches, or even glitter (sorry parents!). Turn an old T-shirt into a superhero cape, or add cool patches to your jeans. You’re the designer now.
3 - Thrift shop adventure
Going to a thrift store or a second-hand shop is like stepping into a magic wardrobe — you never know what treasure you’ll find. A funky hat, a sparkly jacket, or maybe sneakers with extra cool vibes.
4 - Swap with friends
Invite your friends for a mini “closet party.” Everyone brings clothes they don’t wear anymore and trades them. You go home with “new-to-you” outfits, and it feels like shopping… but for free!
5 - Fashion superpower: repeat outfits
If you must buy new, choose local, ethical, transparent brands. Less is more, always.
So this month, your mission is to save the planet by giving clothes a second life. Ready to join the challenge? Let’s go! 🚀
Marcia, founder of TINY RIO
