TikTokers, Instagrammers, and fashion enthusiasts arrived at Derian House’s Blackburn shop for an exclusive night to promote sustainable shopping and raise vital funds for the children’s hospice.
It was an evening of fizz, food, and fashion challenges at the hospice’s second Charity Shop Lock-in event this year (Thursday 29 September).
Singer Emma Rae provided live music and guests checked out the rails packed full of bargain gear while enjoying complimentary Subway platters, cookies, prosecco and soft drinks.
A charity shop bingo challenge saw guests scramble to find ‘Something from the 90s’, ‘A whole outfit for £15’, ‘An outfit inspired by Harry Styles’ and more.
A magic mirror photo booth meant that guests were able to take home a memento of the outfits they created on the night, and a donation station was set up for guests to extend the life of their unwanted clothes.
Those who bagged tickets left with a mystery bag containing Derian goodies as well as perfume, eyelashes, socks and lip-gloss donated by fashion brand PrettyLittleThing.
Gillian Rabbett, Events and Legacies Marketing Coordinator at Derian House, said: “Derian House’s first Charity Shop Lock-in at the Preston shop was such a success that we decided to bring the event to Blackburn.
“Sustainable fashion is all over social media right now – especially as it is Second Hand September – and many influencers are looking at how they can shop more mindfully while expressing their individual style.
“Our Lock-in events 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!”
Rochdale-based Instagrammer Lucy Jane (@lucyjane.fashion) spoke at the event about the importance of sustainable fashion and brought along a selection of her own garments for guests to buy on the night.
Lucy said: “I started charity shopping as a teenager and I haven’t stopped since. I love that you don’t know what you’re going to get – you can find so many unique items that you just wouldn’t get in a high street shop.
“I donated some of my own clothes that have a lot of good memories, but now it’s time to give them a fresh start.
“To know that the money you spend in the Derian shop is going towards an incredible charity is amazing. You might be getting a nice outfit but you’re also helping the families the hospice looks after.”
TikToker and Instagrammer Robyn Elphick (@robynnmia) also made an appearance and brought along her dog, Ned, who went home with his own Derian House bandana.
Robyn, of Skelmersdale, said: “I went to the first Derian shop event in Preston and really enjoyed it, so when I was invited to the Blackburn Lock-in I was really excited.
“There is such a nice layout in the shop and I bought so much on the night. I think it’s important that we try and be a bit more sustainable. It’s so much more exciting finding a gem and it’s nice to know you’re doing something for a good cause.”
Derian House has charity shops in Preston, Blackburn, Chorley, Horwich, and Accrington as well as an 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 high street stores.
