Style influencer Jen Graham is a girl on a mission to change people’s perceptions about charity shopping. The second-hand style guru has built a loyal following by sharing her chic charity shop clothing hauls online, causing her to rocket to internet fame – and even bag herself a prime time slot on ITV’s This Morning.
As we chat, it’s clear to see why she has become the voice of charity retail – her passion for pre-loved fashion is contagious. Plus, with 30% of unwanted clothes ending up in UK landfill sites every year, there doesn’t seem to be a better time than now to take notes from Jen, and to think about our own shopping habits.
Since January 2023, Jen has been an official ambassador for the Air Ambulance, which opened a new charity shop in West Bridgford last month. This World Earth Day, 22 April, Jen is urging you to take a trip to your local charity shop and have a rummage (or donate), because you never know what treasures you might find…
Jen – or as many of us will know you, “Charity Shop Girl” – tell us, what is it you love so much about pre-loved fashion?
It’s the thrill of not knowing what you’re going to find and that items are one-offs. I’ve always been a rummager at heart. Charity shops are filled with more vintage stuff than you could imagine, for a fraction of the price, and the money you spend is going to charity. It’s satisfying to think I’m buying something I love and feel great wearing, but the charity is also benefiting.
When did your passion for pre-loved start?
Denne historien er fra April 22, 2024-utgaven av OK! UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra April 22, 2024-utgaven av OK! UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Cheesy does it
These gloriously gooey and tantalisingly tasty cheese-based dishes are perfect for comfort food season
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VAPING
E-cigarettes have never been more popular but vaping isn’t the risk-free alternative to smoking that people might think it is
I love the process of applying full glam'
Celebrity make-up artist and queen of the smoky eye' Hannah Martin shares her top tips for looking and feeling your best this festive season
For the first time in 35 years, I don't wake up frightened of my illness'
Loose Women panellist Denise Welch opens up about her many battles, including her lifelong struggle with numbers
"The more I talk about it, the easier it becomes'
TV favourite Shirley Ballas is sharing her own struggles with bladder health to help others suffering in silence
'Now I have to learn how to trust someone else'
Stand-up Katherine Ryan on her family's changing dynamic, her latest tour and getting great ideas for dinnertime with a new food campaign
When I look at some people and they hate their job, I feel sorry for them'
Good Morning Britain's Charlotte Hawkins on her love for her work and how classical music can calm pets
'I didn't know if I'd ever get married...it was just perfect
Grantchester star Melissa Johns invites OK! readers to share in her very special wedding
I consider Simon and Amanda family now our children hang out together'
Alesha Dixon on the secret to her success, the lasting bond with her fellow BGT judges and why young people should follow their dreams
'It feels like your world is completely ripped to pieces
After her recent miscarriage, Paris Fury reveals how she's made peace with this tragic event