One in five UK consumers still throw away unwanted clothing, according to the latest research by Oxfam, which launches its 2026 Second Hand September campaign today (01 Sep 2026).

Oxfam, which has been selling pre-loved fashion in its charity shops since 1947, is marking the start of the campaign by publishing its first-ever State of Style report. The study reveals that Britain’s unworn clothes waste enough water to supply one million people for life.

Since launching the campaign in 2019, Oxfam’s Second Hand September aims to inspire customers to make more sustainable fashion choices by buying pre-loved. By shopping and donating, consumers can support charities, as well as reducing demand for new clothing, helping to limit emissions from production.

The second-hand fashion movement continues to grow in popularity, with pre-loved becoming a mainstream choice for fashion shoppers. Research by DHL eComemrce UK showed that nearly half of Brits having purchased (49%) or sold (42%) second-hand goods, with affordability (52%), sustainability (38%) and ethical purchasing (28%) the key demand drivers.

This year, the Oxfam campaign is being fronted by Richard E Grant, and calls on shoppers to choose second hand over fast fashion to help address the environmental impact of clothing.

“My career break happened because I was wearing a second hand coat I bought in an Oxfam shop,” Grant said.

“I’ve always loved clothes that have lived a life before you, I still wear pieces I’ve owned for decades, items that belonged to people I love, and things I’ve discovered over the years – that’s why I support Second Hand September.”

“Original style isn’t about buying more. It’s about finding pieces with a story, keeping them for as long as you can, and passing them on for someone else to discover,” he added. “We’ve already got too much of everything. Reusing and upcycling clothing – second-hand, vintage, call it what you like – just makes perfect sense.”

“Second Hand September is a brilliant reminder that small changes can have a big impact,” said Rachel Cosgrove-Pearce, Oxfam’s Head of Retail Operations. “By donating clothes you no longer wear or choosing to shop second hand, you’re helping to reduce textile waste, support Oxfam’s work and do something positive for the planet.”