It was a night of fashion, fizz, and fun at Derian House Children’s Hospice’s very first charity shop lock-in event to promote sustainable fashion.
Fashion bloggers, influencers, and students attended the exclusive event at the Derian Preston shop, on Fishergate, where they were invited to explore the store’s colourful collections.
Guests checked out the rails packed full of bargain gear while enjoying a slice of pizza and a glass of fizz provided by Hartley’s Wine Bar.
Gillian Rabbett, Events and Legacies Marketing Coordinator at Derian House, said: “Sustainable fashion is trending all over social media right now and many influencers are looking at how they can shop more mindfully while expressing their individual style.
“We set up a special event to showcase some of the incredible finds we have in our Derian charity shops – we’re talking classic vintage, quirky high-street pieces, and even some designer labels – you never know what you’re going to find!”
Live music from singer Alana Rose set the scene and a fun shopping challenge saw guests pick the perfect outfit for a unique scenario which they were able to show off to fellow shoppers.
Guests left with a goody bag containing Derian merchandise as well as eyelashes, socks and hats donated by fashion brand Pretty Little Thing.
Olivia Monks, who attended the event, said: “We had a great night at the lock-in. I’ve not really shopped in charity shops before so this was an eye-opener. I enjoyed taking part in the charity shop challenge and styling an outfit for a music gig. I bought some clothes and accessories for my holiday and it was nice to know that all of the proceeds go directly to the charity.”
Preston clothing brand That Life hosted a pop-up shop at the lock-in event. The brand regularly donates their alternative and tattoo inspired pieces to the charity.
Jonathan Simpson, That Life creator, said: “Derian’s lock-in event was brilliant. There was such a chilled out vibe and it was great to see people finding unique items that you probably wouldn’t find in other shops.”
Each month Jonathan donates collections of his custom T-shirts to Derian’s shops to sell. The T-shirts sell for around £10 – £15 (lower priced than on the brand’s website) with all the proceeds going to the charity.
Jonathan said: “Whatever I can do to give back, I do it. We never know what cards we’re going to be dealt with in life and I’m proud to be a supporter of Derian House and the incredible work they do.”
The event coincided with the launch of the charity’s brand new online retail hub – Derian House Charity Shop Treasures – a Facebook page featuring all the best bargains for sale on its eBay, Depop and in the five high street stores.
Derian House has charity shops in Preston, Blackburn, Chorley, Horwich, and Leyland with new stores planned for Accrington and Bury in the near future.
