Creating stylish outfits does not have to mean buying new, as a recent visit to Nightingales charity shops in Oswestry and Whitchurch has shown. The experience highlighted just how fashionable, affordable and sustainable charity shopping can be.

Rachelle McLachlan, Marketing and Communications Manager at Nightingale House Hospice, teamed up with professional model Mia to take on a styling challenge using only items found in Nightingales stores. Their aim was to create complete outfits for a range of occasions, proving that second-hand fashion can suit every style and lifestyle.

Together, the pair styled an impressive 16 outfits, carefully selecting clothing and accessories to match different themes. These included cosy winter warmers, smart office-ready looks, relaxed weekend wear, eye-catching party sparkle and unique vintage or stand-out outfits. Each look showcased the versatility of charity shop fashion, from everyday essentials to bold statement pieces.

The challenge also highlighted the quality and variety available in Nightingales shops. From warm knitwear and tailored coats to dresses, handbags, jewellery and scarves, the stores offered plenty of choice for creating outfits with personality while keeping costs low.

Speaking about the project, Rachelle McLachlan said:
“People are often surprised by just how stylish and high quality charity shop fashion can be. This challenge showed that you do not need to buy new to create great outfits.

“Every item has a story, and when you shop at Nightingales, you are not only making a sustainable choice but also helping to fund vital care for our patients and their families.”

Beyond style, the project shone a light on the environmental impact of shopping second-hand. Between 1 January and 7 December 2025 alone, Nightingales stores saved 244,450 items from landfill, helping to give clothing a second life and reduce waste in 2025.

The impact on patient care is just as significant. During the same period, 69,397 items of womenswear and accessories were sold, generating £332,834 in sales. Every purchase made in a Nightingales shop directly supports the care and services provided by Nightingale House Hospice.

Nightingales charity shops can be found across the region, including Wrexham, Borras, Mold, Buckley, Oswestry and Whitchurch, with a Re-Use Shop located at Bryn Lane Recycling Centre. For more information about Nightingales stores, including opening times and how to support Nightingale House Hospice, visit bit.ly/NHHShop

This styling challenge demonstrates that charity shopping can be inspiring, affordable and purposeful. Whether shoppers are looking for everyday comfort, workwear essentials or something special for a celebration, Nightingales shops offer fashionable options that are kind to the planet and give back to the local community.

With every purchase, shoppers are not just creating great outfits, they are supporting compassionate hospice care and helping make fashion more sustainable, one outfit at a time.

Mia Walker and Rachelle McLachlan.