Residents and carers hit the catwalk at Townsend House in Headington, Oxford during London Fashion Week with a pre-loved clothing fashion show, proving that fashion and beauty can be both glamourous and environmentally responsible at any age, and challenging an industry that often overlooks older people and prioritises trends over sustainability.

The care home partnered with Sobell House Hospice to showcase a stunning selection of pre-loved designer clothing, accessories, hats, handbags, shoes, and menswear including ties, dickie bows, and suit jackets. The collection has been carefully curated from Sobell’s boutique stores in Little Clarendon Street and Headington High Street, as well as their warehouse in Bicester.

To add to the excitement, residents got glammed up with professional hair and makeup, ensuring they felt their absolute best before stepping onto the runway. Raymond Bennett and Margaret Dalton are among the residents who strutted their stuff on the catwalk, proving that style and self-expression know no age limits.  Raymond, pictured above, said: “I’ve never experienced a fashion show before. It was something new for me and it’s been very exciting and fun.”

Lisa Oliver, Home Manager at Townsend House, shared her excitement: "It’s wonderful to see our residents being included in such a fantastic event. Looking good and shopping for preloved clothing doesn’t stop when you move to a care home—it’s a joy that is embraced at any stage of life."

Charlotte White, Manager at Sobell House, added: "We are thrilled to be collaborating with Townsend House, especially during London Fashion Week. This event highlights the beauty and timelessness of preloved fashion while supporting sustainability."

Every outfit shown on the catwalk will be available in Sobell House’s shops after the show.  

In the coming months, Townsend House plans to build on this successful collaboration with Sobell House by hosting preloved clothing sales, enabling even more people to enjoy and support sustainable fashion.