Show Some Love: Meet the Belfast charity redefining second-hand shopping

By Niamh Hatfield

Photo by Arina Krasnikova- Pexels

In an era where sustainability is crucial, a Belfast charity, Show Some Love is showing that second-hand fashion can be stylish, creative, and fun. The charity are reshaping how we approach both fashion and sustainability. With their recent expansion into a larger venue, the organization is offering shared spaces for creatives and artists, turning the venue into a vibrant community hub.

The new space now hosts a variety of donation-based workshops, including sewing, crochet, and knitting, all centred around using leftover materials and upcycled fabrics. These workshops not only allow participants to create beautiful, functional pieces but also promote sustainable practices in a fun and hands-on way.

At the heart of this initiative is the organisation's 'Fashion Flee,' an inclusive space where individuals can shop stylish, high-quality second-hand items without financial pressure. By making fashion accessible to all, the Fashion Flee challenges the traditional barriers of the fashion world, proving that quality and style don’t have to come with a high price tag.

“We wanted to create a space where people could come together, share ideas, and make a real impact on sustainability,” says Becky Bellamy, CEO of Show Some Love. “Our goal is to foster a sense of community that goes beyond fashion, helping people tap into their creative potential.”

The social aspect of the workshops plays a significant role in spreading sustainability. Many participants bring friends who may not have been initially interested, but by the end of the session, they often leave inspired and more mindful of their own choices. It’s not just about learning new skills or finding great clothes; it’s about fostering a culture of sustainability and spreading that message through the community.

Sustainability particularly resonates with younger generations, Becky notes. “Many young people come in looking for something unique, something they can’t find on the high street. They’re interested in fashion that makes a statement. And that’s where second-hand fashion shines. It’s not only more affordable but also more individualistic. It’s about expressing yourself in a creative, personal way.”

As part of their commitment to sustainability and community support, Show Some Love operates a "Free Store" for individuals facing hardship. This initiative goes beyond traditional charity, by offering high-quality second-hand clothing and essential goods, completely free of charge.

Unlike the limited offerings often found in typical charity cupboards, Show Some Love provides individuals with the opportunity to browse, try on, and select items that truly meet their needs. Recognizing the lack of choice in many charity settings, they’ve created a shopping experience that empowers those facing hardship, offering dignity and personal choice in times of need.

Sustainability is deeply ingrained in their ethos. Any items unsuitable for sale are repurposed or recycled, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. The organization encourages the message of “Buy Less, Buy Better, Buy Locally,” urging people to reconsider the culture of overconsumption and environmental harm.

Their approach highlights the idea that second-hand options are not only more sustainable but also an effective way to express personal style without constantly buying new.

“People often come here for the fashion, but they leave with a new mindset,” Becky reflects. “Sustainability is no longer something that feels like a chore. We make it fun.”