April Newletter

Plus-size edits, the rise of resale, Spring style

Ahead of the curve 

 As we start to roll out dedicated plus-size sections, we invited fashion writer and commentator Anastasia (@fatannawintour) to see what it’s like to shop with us as a mid-to-plus-size person.  

While she acknowledges that shopping second-hand is one of the best ways to change our consumption habits, Anastasia admits she doesn’t shop in charity shops that often. The idea that she might struggle to find larger sizes is intimidating and off-putting.  

 Want to see how she got on? Watch the first episode below and check out @shopfromcrisis to see the rest! 

Are resale platforms really ‘killing the charity shop’? 

We were recently asked to contribute to a story on the impact of resale platforms like Vinted on charity shops. The article argues that the rise in online selling is responsible for the declining quality of donations.  

While we’ve definitely seen an impact as a result of people’s changing habits (and urge you to keep donating your quality items to our stores!), we also see opportunity. Platforms like eBay, Vinted and Depop continue to play a huge role in shifting people’s mindsets towards ‘second-hand first’. In fact, we’re now trading on these platforms as well as our own site!   

We’re also tackling declining stock quality by working with corporate partners and exploring new partnerships that will bring good-as-new stock to our customers. Keep an eye on our Insta page to be first to hear about an exciting collab coming soon…

What’s on in shops 

 Stripes, Reimagined 

 On 9 May, pop down to our Finsbury Park shop for the launch of a new collaboration with Sim3allenkey. Founder Sophie, who also volunteers in store, takes unloved, unworn items and recuts and restyles them to turn them into something fabulous. Her last collection, florals, contained a variety of sizes and styles, and went down a storm in-store. We can’t wait to see what she does with stripes! Expect DJs and drinks while you browse.  

‘Thrift flip’ at Elephant & Castle 

 The Creators Vintage Department, a grassroots initiative run by UAL students, recently collaborated with our Elephant & Castle shop to give students the opportunity to create and upcycle clothes with the chance of having their work displayed in store. Watch winner Nick Reighard share his designs! 

 Plus-size donations 🙏 

 As we work to introduce dedicated plus-size rails in more of our stores, we’re calling on our community to support us by donating any pre-loved plus-size pieces you have to Crisis shops. This is a really important step towards creating a more inclusive shopping experience.  

 Make it go further with Gift Aid 

 If you have pieces to donate, don’t forget to add Gift Aid. You only have to sign up once, and your items will be worth 25% more to Crisis at no extra cost to you. Just give your Gift Aid number or your surname and postcode each time you donate.