Buyers can look good, feel good and do good at the new Emmaus Hampshire preloved fashion boutique in Winchester.
The boutique, at 4 Romsey Road, opens to the public on Friday 4 July 2025 following its official launch on 3 July. It gives environment- and cost- conscious buyers the opportunity to spice up their wardrobe with luxury fashion at very ordinary prices.
The centrepiece is a curated range of high quality pre-loved clothing. This is supported by upcycled leatherware, upholstered furniture and other premium items.
The store provides far more than just a city centre presence for the charity, says Chief Executive, Nigel Samuels. “Although we can always do with more good quality furniture donations, we can sell all the furniture we can get. Fashion is a different issue because too much clothing is made, bought and disposed of. This boutique is the right setting to sell the fabulous clothing we receive from our donors.”
One of the greatest challenges any fashionable person faces is keeping their wardrobe fresh without creating more waste. The essence of Emmaus Romsey Road is circular fashion.
- Look Good – Buy pre-loved designer and vintage clothing donated by others
- Feel Good – Reduce carbon emissions by reducing waste
- Do Good – Support Hampshire’s homeless
All Emmaus stores are run by ex-homeless people [called Companions] who form the Emmaus community at Bar End, Winchester.
Upcycling influencer Sarah Sullivan, of Style Solutions by Sarah, has helped with the launch. She says, “Winchester is a hot market for pre-loved clothes. Buyers are well aware of the environmental costs of fast fashion and how good quality used items can be combined with new to look fantastic. This new Emmaus store combines with others in the city to make Winchester a magnet destination for lovers of sustainable fashion.”
Furniture, clothing and homewares are available from the two Emmaus Hampshire superstores at Bar End, Winchester and Leigh Road, Eastleigh.
Emmaus Hampshire is a vibrant and thriving social enterprise community for the homeless. Emmaus (pronounced em-may-us) provides a home and meaningful work experience through retail, catering distribution and DIY services. It provides personal development for all individuals who join, which can help maximise their potential and secure their entry back into independent living.
Companion is a name given to those who live in the community and work in its social enterprise where they support themselves and one another. Emmaus Hampshire’s social enterprise generates money that pays for our companions’ home, food, upkeep and personal development, as well as providing a small weekly allowance.
The charity believes this is key to restoring an individual’s feelings of self-worth and demonstrating to them that they can make a real difference for both the community and for their own individual future.