If you've unearthed your winter wardrobe after putting it in hibernation for the warm months and found a coat you will no longer wear, then it's time to pass it on. But instead of listing it on a resale site, why not give it to someone who really needs one?
Soon temperatures will take a nose dive. So, for those without a permanent home, or unable to afford a coat this season, being given one really could make a huge difference.
WrapUp London is now in its 14th year of donating coats via a fleet of over 75 charities in London and further afield. Recipients include women and young children in shelters, young adults, the homeless, the elderly and refugees. Over the years the charity has donated over 165,000 winter warmers.
“Each year, the people of London never fail to amaze me. They give so generously and make it possible to support a wide range of charities, helping vulnerable people across the city," says Jon Meech, HandsOn London CEO.
For the fourth year running, cult shirting brand With Nothing Underneath is leading the charge among the fashion industry in helping to keep Londoners in need warm. For 2024, it's working with Calling London, who collect coats and jackets to donate them via charities of all sizes. Last year saw a record of 10,000 coats collected, so this year, the hope is that even more warmers to be donated.
"We have the most amazing and engaged customer — so why not work together to give a little back? It’s not much for us to harness our community for good — but the difference it makes is huge," says Pip Durell of the decision to run the charity scheme annually after kicking it off during the pandemic.
"At the core of what we are building at WNU is a brand with a purpose — that chooses to focus our time and resources, where we can, to give back to our community," adds Durell. "Being able to spend our time on good causes resonated deeply with the team and as such, has continued to be an integral part of our yearly plans."
Here's the key details on how to get involved by donating your wares.
With Nothing Underneath and Calling London
What? Warm, practical coats: think duffles, puffas, parkas and peacoats. Be sure to raid your family's wardrobes as well, as they need styles for adults, children and babies. Don't forget to ensure the coat is lovely and clean for its new owner.
When? From 1 to 24 November.
Where? If you're near Belgravia, or can swing by the area, the WNU store is open seven days a week and accepting donations via any of its staff. If the store is a schlep, then you can post your coat. The kind team will reimburse your postage if you include a receipt. WNU, 47 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PP.
A little reward... to thank you for your kindness and contribution, WNU will share a 20 per cent discount with donors. withnothingunderneath.com
WrapUp London
What? As with Calling London, WrapUp need your warm pre-loved outerwear for people of all ages.
When? Collections will run from 5 to 24 November.
Where? There are drop-off points across the city and in Greater London (find your nearest at handsonlondon.org.uk).
Got other winter clothing to clear out? Here's where to give them a new look or lease of life.
Jeans with circular denim brands
What? Several sustainable denim leaders in London offer returns or revamping services for when your jeans are threadbare, to prevent them from ending up in landfill or being incinerated. MUD allows you to 'lease' and return a pair you've bought for up to a year, for a small monthly fee. You can trade them in entirely after a year if you desire and the old ones will be recycled.
To ensure your jeans last longer, London-based Fanfare offer two services: you can get their styles repaired at any point, or you can donate them back for recycling once you feel they're worn out.
Where? Head to fanfarelabel.com to find out more. Lease or recycle jeans with MUD at mudjeans.eu.
Winter workwear with Smartworks
What? Clothes, flat shoes and handbags that are smart enough to help someone feel confident in an interview, or fabulous partywear you no longer wear, which could be sold at an auction to raise money for SmartWorks. The organisation has been helping women to get into work for 11 years by providing coaching and clothes to give them the confidence to succeed.
Where? Drop off items in person, or send them via post or courier at one of the locations listed at london.smartworks.org.uk.
