Ultimate 90’s Up-Cycling Event

Barnardo’s and Charity Fashion Live team up again for the return of the CFL lock in!

Join us on the 8th of November and let yourself be transported back to the 90s, with our throwback up-cycling party!!

Just May, the world’s number one Geri Halliwell tribute drag act, will be spinning all your favourite 90’s tunes to get you into the party mood!

Upon arrival you can choose an item to give your very own touch of 90’s revival, think bumbags, chokers, baggy shirts and denim! Add your own touch to your chosen item using a combination of fun patches, pom-poms, glitter and much more!

So, be sure to pick up your ticket, get creative and come join us for the ultimate 90’s up-cycling event.

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My Up-cycling Challenge

I was asked by Barnardo’s to join in with Recycle Week by up-cycling an item of clothing surprisingly sent to me, I automatically thought, WHAT A FUN CHALLENGE!

As an avid repairs and up-cycling seamstress with my brand, Soul and Flare, I was excited to receive my parcel. I opened up the box and to my delight there was an indigo wash, women’s denim shirt by Uniqlo. HURRAH!

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Denim on the double

For some it’s a controversial combo, but denim on denim isn’t something I’ve ever shied away from. Increasingly people are choosing not to follow the “rules” of fashion, but more importantly we’re wearing what makes us feel good. It’s so important to have your own sense of style – I like to think of mine as quite eclectic. Fashion is a way to express myself and be creative. I don’t take myself too seriously and I love mixing things up – and denim makes up a big part of my quirky look!

I’ve been lucky enough to pick up a fair few pairs of Levi 501s in Barnardo’s. You’ll pay a fraction of the cost for the same pair in a vintage shop, let alone brand new. You’ll need to have a rummage in the men’s section for sure – break those fashion ‘rules’, remember! I’ve found my more unique vintage denim pieces like 80’s pantaloon-style or denim culottes in vintage shops.

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My Barnardo’s Find

The weekend is nearly upon us, so why not treat yourself to something at your local Barnardo’s? It’s shopping that is guaranteed to make you look and feel fabulous! Keep scrolling to see what pre-loved finds we love this week.

Suits have shaken off their corporate reputation, thanks to new relaxed silhouettes and fabrics. The trick is to ensure they look relaxed, rather than formal. Naomi emulates this perfectly by teaming them with a slogan tee and a leather jacket. It’s a super-easy and trend setting outfit, making it unsurprising that it’s become a street style secret weapon.

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All The Leaves Are Brown

You can imagine my excitement when an email landed in my inbox from Barnardo’s, inviting me to guest blog for The-Thrift. And then the doubts crept in…I don’t even have a blog…what topic shall I choose…will people even find me interesting? Then I decided to get cracking, be creative, and try my hand at blogging! With hibernation weather just around the corner and onesie season creeping up,  plus the fact I talk to myself all the time, I figured, why not get my thoughts down on here and share some of my favourite pieces!

As a clothes-enthusiast who likes things of yesteryear and anything vintage, I started my Instagram at the start of this year. I share my charity shop finds and vintage items from the shops, fairs and markets I’ve been to, with a bit of outfit styling thrown in for good measure.

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Denim Days

Denim is the most versatile trend you can have in your wardrobe and this season will not disappoint. Autumn is all about bigger, breezier hems, embracing colours, the return of the classic pinafore and much more. Keep scrolling to see our favourite denim pieces to help you transition seamlessly from summer to autumn.

Add a twist to the classic pinafore with this fun autumnal colour. Team it with chunky knits and your favourite trainers to create that perfect casual vibe.

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My Go-To Uni Look

Hey all my thrifty friends,

So believe it or not, it’s already September! Where has 2017 gone? Summer is coming to a close and college, university and, school is just around the corner once again.

Over the summer I made a special effort to go shopping at my local charity shops and have picked up some fantastic bargains. I want to share one of my favourite looks, mostly styled with pre-loved items or bits that have been handed down to me.

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My Personalised Denim By April

April here! I’m back with another monthly blog for The-Thrift! This time, it’s all about getting creative and personalising your pre-loved finds. So, let’s get right to it!

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Denim finds are my favourite to get creative with. It’s so easy to jazz up old denim with a quick DIY fix, and from the comfort of your own home.

I got these Mom jeans in my local Barnardo’s in Brixton a couple of months ago – a bargain at just £7.99! They fit perfectly but I wanted to make them unique. I knew they would look great distressed and decided to give it a go myself. Here’s how I did it. Read More »

April’s Charity Shopping Tips.

It’ April here and I’m, back with another monthly guest blog! In this entry I’ll be sharing my ideas on how to end the stigma around charity shop shopping and sharing some more smashing Barnardo’s finds.

When you hear the words charity shop, what immediately pops into your mind? For me it’s a treasure trove of amazing fashion finds! I’ve had people compliment me on my outfits, followed by the classic question “where is that from?” – I have always proudly answered: “Barnardo’s”. Cue the shocked expression! I was once your stereotypical charity shop doubter but my first trip to Barnardo’s immediately changed my mind.

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Join In Our Get The Trend Workshops By Love Your Clothes

Charity Fashion Love has been and gone, and we’re sad to wave goodbye to another brilliant event celebrating the versatility, beauty and fun of pre-loved shopping.

Once again we were blown away by the speed and flair with which Stylist and CFL Founder, Emma recreated London Fashion Week looks, solely using items found in one Barnardo’s store. The buzz of event day and general excitement of everyone taking part, was infectious, and we hope you’ve all been inspired to make pre-loved your first love when it comes to to shopping for clothes!

The action isn’t over though, as we have been holding some free drop-in workshops with Barnardo’s, in three of their London stores. The workshops focus on different trends we’ve seen during London Fashion Week and are bound to help keep you up to date!
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