Marks & Spencer has launched a new programme called 'Shwopping' where people are encouraged to donate unwanted clothes in store when they come to buy something new. The items donated will then be passed on to Oxfam. More info here. As part of the programme they're also working with the London College of Fashion to open a 2 week pop-up at the Old Truman's Brewery to look at the nature of clothing and fashion. There are events planned for nearly every day - see listings here
"Over the past four years our relationship with Oxfam has really grown. Since the launch of the M&S and Oxfam Clothes Exchange, we’ve seen over 10 million items donated – worth an estimated £8 million to Oxfam. Now, we are taking our quest for greater sustainability in fashion one step further by opening the UK’s first sustainable fashion lab in the heart of East London, at the Old Truman Brewery. We’ve called it the Shwop Lab, as part of our wider initiative called shwopping.
As well as Oxfam, we’re working with London College of Fashion’s Centre for Sustainable Fashion to bring together an exciting array of designers, stylists and thought-leaders who will be exploring and debating the future of a more sustainable fashion industry.
The project will give M&S customers a behind-the-scenes look into the world of 21st Century fashion and offer the opportunity to witness the stars of environmentally friendly fashion at work. Eco-conscious visitors will even be able to try their hand at designing and creating their own items through expert-led master classes.
Work from the Sustainable Centre for Fashion and designers Michelle Lowe-Holder and Noel Stewart
We’re really looking forward to giving both established and up-and-coming designers the chance to collaborate on this exciting project. The only ticket you need to attend this great event is an unwanted item of clothing. Each item will be assessed for potential use and will either be reused and transformed in the lab or handed to Oxfam to resell or recycle. Welcome to the future of fashion!"
When - 26th April - 9th May, 10am - 5pm
Where - The Dray Walk Gallery, The Old Truman Brewery, Dray Walk, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL
Map
Link - Marks & Spencer, including full programme of events
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