Where to Buy Affordable Preloved Clothing

Shop by brand at Preworn (FatFace clothing at half the price!)

Shopping for preloved clothing isn’t just about saving money—it’s also a simple way to support the planet and make your wardrobe more unique. Whether you love vintage finds or just want to keep your budget in check, knowing where to look can make all the difference.

Second-hand shopping is now more popular than ever, with people choosing it for personal style, ethical reasons, and environmental care. Here’s a clear, honest look at the best places to find well-priced preloved clothes, so you can shop smarter and feel good about what you buy.

Wash synthetic fibres in a microfibre filter. It’s best to buy new baby clothes to avoid mould spores (and mattresses). 

Find info on crib death prevention at The Lullaby Trust (they recommend removing hats inside and for warmer temperatures, including car seats).

Charity Shops

Charity shops are a staple on many high streets across the UK.

Shop at small locally-owned charity shops to avoid the big names that use funds raised to test on animals. Donate to humane medical research instead. Age UK is okay. It does not test on animals, and does wonderful work for vulnerable people.

Most shops have new stock daily, from donations. The mix of high-street brands, vintage pieces, and designer bargains means you never know what you’ll find. Take your time and check all sizes, as preloved clothing isn’t always organised like you’d expect in standard shops.

Ever wondered why charity shops all smell the same? Some call it musty or damp?

Apparently it’s due to the fact that so many clothes get donated, they all end up mingled together in storage – often with clothes that have been stashed away for years in attics etc. So they end up all smelling the same.

Vintage Shops

Vintage shops specialise in clothing from past decades, so you’ll find everything from 70s jackets to 90s shirts. While prices can be a bit higher, the quality and uniqueness often make up for it. Many vintage shops have regular clearance rail sales where items go for a song.

Staff are usually knowledgeable and love to help you build outfits or find particular items. Shopping in person also lets you check the fit and look for any signs of wear.

Clothing Swap Events

Clothing swaps, often run by community groups or sustainability advocates, let you bring old items and swap them for something new-to-you. Entry is usually free or very cheap, and rules are simple—bring clean, good-quality clothing in exchange for tokens to spend on other pieces.

Swishing is like shopping, but it’s free! Note that swishing is not the same as swinging – that’s another kind of swapping!

University and Student Shops

Many universities host regular second-hand sales or have student-run shops where preloved clothes are up for grabs at low prices. These events are usually timed around term starts or student move-out days, so keep an eye on campus noticeboards.

The clothes on offer often include trendy, gently-worn items, perfect for students or anyone looking for a budget-friendly refresh.

Preworn Clothing

Preworn offers 65,000 items of pre-loved clothing for men, women and children, with loyalty discounts and offers for health workers and first responders.

85% of clothes are in perfect condition, and you can shop by favourite label (many items are less than a fiver). It also regularly donates 15% of sales to animal charities like Blue Cross and Battersea.

Thrift+

Thrift+ is a popular online marketplace to find quality second-hand clothing (we found a green cotton Fatface dress for £25, which would likely cost three times as much new on the high street).

Again, this company will take your unused clothes to photograph, list and sell – then earn credits or donate money to your chosen charity.

Tips for Buying Pre-loved Clothing

• Check for holes, stains, and signs of wear.
• Tug gently at seams and check buttons or zips.
• Focus on measurements, for good size.
• Try things on, if you can.