The cost of living crisis has not only spiked conversations around debt, but is alarming with the rise in unemployment and poverty across Greater Manchester. Now, the North West creative community is coming together with Manchester’s very own Oxfam stores to raise money, and to support the downfall of ongoing issues, specifically like the East African famine crisis. With the help of Lensor Creative, a community group built up from North West models, photographers, stylists, and make-up artists, this will also bring awareness promoting the pre-loved lifestyle, as there are many benefits to these second-hand boutiques.

Lensor is hosting an event this August in Oxfam’s name at The Photocove in New Islington, Manchester. The event aims to raise awareness and donations for Oxfam, their clothes, and the work they do to combat poverty worldwide.

Donations will go straight towards Oxfam causes, such as helping villages have access to drinkable water, and giving women entrepreneurial opportunities. Currently, more than 44 million people are in need of humanitarian aid as climate extremes have caused widespread food and water shortages.

Manchester models take on a new look – the Oxfam look

On the 13th of August, creatives across the North West will come together to raise money and awareness for Manchester’s very own Oxfam stores.

Lensor Creative holds events across the North West and are now aiming to raise funds for the charity with a twist. Through the concept of modelling and art, the community group aims to provide a new look while increasing awareness across social media.

The guests will have an opportunity to choose and style amazing outfits from the Oldham Street Oxfam shops’ recent donations to get camera-ready with their team and take photos in The Photocove’s studios.

Attendees will have an opportunity to buy the clothes, baked goods, and enter a tombola (with donations from the local Manchester community). Not only does this show a glimpse into the world of second-hand shopping, but it lets the event attendees spice up their wardrobe with some of the fresh clothes picked out by Sam Loat, Lensor’s head stylist who works at Oxfam.

Oxfam deputy manager Sam, said: “As a preloved stylist my aim is to promote second hand fashion, and move away from the fast fashion industry. I source 90% of my clothes from Charity shops like Oxfam, and try to influence the creatives I work with. This event is perfect for showing the creative community what Oxfam and charity shops have to offer, which are full of unique and interesting clothes – sometimes even designer items! I created this event in order to highlight the future of preloved fashion while also benefitting such an important cause.”

Izzie Cannon, owner of Lensor Creative said: “It’s amazing to be given the opportunity to raise money for such a great cause and also promote sustainable fashion while doing what we love! Sourcing clothes and accessories through charity shopping is a really good way to reduce your carbon footprint and negative impact on the environment. Charity shops like Oxfam also make fashion more affordable and accessible to everyone, and the creatives in and around Manchester are ready to raise awareness and funds to give back to those who are struggling worldwide.”

Phil Curtis, owner of The Photocove, said: “It’s amazing to read about how Oxfam raise money and provide great services to such a diverse set of issues; from famine crisis, to clean water systems to climate change! We are excited to be helping with an event so conducive!”