Fashion students take pre-loved clothing to the runway to raise funds for York charity

Second-hand fashion is getting a glamorous makeover this December as York St John University students prepare to showcase a collection of pre-loved clothing at Frozen in Time, a public charity fashion show raising funds for local charity Community Bees. 

The second-year Fashion Marketing students have been working with the charity to create a collection of striking looks, handpicked from its store and styled to challenge perceptions of pre-loved clothing. 

Taking place at York St John's Creative Centre on Thursday 3 December, the show will celebrate the stories behind second-hand fashion, with a pop-up stall giving attendees a chance to take home some of the pieces. Everyone is welcome and tickets are available now.  

Evie Houghton, one of the students involved in the project, said: 

"The idea for Frozen in Time came from wanting to create timeless pieces that could be frozen in time and last forever. Even though clothes might have been put away and almost forgotten, they can be brought back to life. It's about giving old clothes a new lease of life." 

The students have been working in teams to develop different sections of the show, drawing inspiration from established fashion brands, experimenting with unexpected combinations and exploring ways to upcycle vintage pieces. 

Their finds include a statement western-style jacket with tassels, which they're pairing with a romantic mesh shirt, alongside vintage dresses and basic white shirts transformed with accessories such as faux-fur pieces. 

Jody Speight, who is part of the project's communications team, said: 

"We wanted to elevate the idea of second-hand clothing by making it something more glamorous and desirable." 

The show will also bring together volunteers from across the university and wider York community, who will take to the runway as models. Local York businesses have also shown their support by sponsoring prizes for the event's raffle. 

More than just a fashion show 

Alongside celebrating pre-loved fashion, the event aims to raise awareness of the work Community Bees does to support people experiencing hoarding disorder, social isolation and mental health challenges. The York-based charity provides practical support and works to build trust, reduce isolation and help people feel valued and supported.  

The collaboration has also given students a greater understanding of the issues the charity works to address. 

Ted Saunders, who is part of the project's communications team, said: 

"Before starting this project, I didn't really know that much about Community Bees or even hoarding. Learning about what Community Bees does has made me realise how much of an issue it can be and how it affects people." 

Michaela Shaw, from Community Bees CIC, said: 

“We're absolutely delighted to be working with the Fashion Marketing students at York St John University. Hoarding disorder is still widely misunderstood, and many of the people we support experience shame, judgement and isolation. Events like this are so important because they give us an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge some of those misconceptions and encourage more understanding and kindness in our community. 

“Every penny raised will help us continue providing practical and emotional support to people who need it most. We hope everyone who comes along has a fantastic evening, but also leaves knowing a little more about the challenges some people in our city face, and the difference that a little understanding and support can make.” 

Bringing the show to life 

Bringing the show together has involved much more than selecting outfits. Students have taken responsibility for different aspects of the event, including marketing and communications, venue production, styling, logistics and the guest experience. 

Nicole Gould, Lecturer in Fashion Marketing and Business Management, said: 

"This project is incredibly exciting because it not only offers valuable industry experience for our Fashion Marketing students but also supports a great cause by raising funds for local York charity Community Bees. 

"It's been incredibly rewarding to see the students, who include not only those from our Fashion Marketing course but volunteers from across the university, grow in confidence week by week. I can't wait to celebrate their achievements on the runway in just a few weeks, and I hope we raise a fantastic amount for the charity." 

Join us for Frozen in Time 

Frozen in Time takes place on Thursday 3 December at York St John University's Creative Centre. Doors open at 5.00pm, with the fashion show starting at 6.00pm. 

Alongside the runway show, guests can browse a pop-up stall featuring pre-loved clothing, enjoy music from a DJ, take part in a tombola and raffle, and pick up exclusive show goodie bags. Handcrafted Christmas trees made by a member of Community Bees will also be available to buy. All proceeds go to Community Bees. 

Come along and see pre-loved fashion take centre stage. The event is open to everyone, and tickets are available through Eventbrite.