By Nicole Akong, a fashion influencer and finalist on the BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee, finds joy and a sense of accomplishment in revamping secondhand clothing. Amidst economic pressures and environmental concerns, the secondhand fashion market is thriving, expected to claim a significant share of global sales. Akong, who grew up in Trinidad with limited access to imported clothes, has become a London-based advocate for preloved fashion, seeing it as a way to express style and creativity.
After her stint on television, Akong hesitated to purchase ready-made clothes, feeling public pressure to wear only her creations. However, charity shopping with her daughter opened a new avenue for her: transforming preloved garments. She finds this process liberating compared to the constraints of sewing from scratch.
Akong’s approach to reviving clothes goes beyond simple repairs. She fully transforms items, such as a red-striped shirt she acquired for £1, which she shortened, cuffed, and adorned with an array of embellishments. Her vibrant and flamboyant style, which has evolved over the years, is reflected in her unique pieces, like her tassel-front trousers.
For Akong, secondhand shopping is purposeful, seeking items for specific occasions and envisioning their transformation. Her skills, honed on the Sewing Bee, empower her to create distinctive pieces, like a bomber jacket from a mix of old garments. She encourages everyone to explore the world of clothing transformation, leveraging the skills of those who enjoy the craft. Akong’s story highlights the growing appreciation for preloved fashion as a sustainable and fashionable choice.
