Karen Walker Is Collecting Pre-Loved Clothing for Charity

Aucklanders who have recently Kondo-ed their wardrobes but weren't quite sure what to do with all those pieces that didn't spark joy can now take them into a Karen Walker store this month to guarantee they'll find a good new home for a great cause.

Throughout April, Karen Walker stores in Newmarket, Ponsonby and Britomart will be acting as clothing collection points for Dove Hospice's six charity shops and Trade Me store.

Dove Hospice offers free holistic care and support for people with life-threatening or terminal illness. They receive no government funding, so rely on community generosity. Their charity shops — located in Glen Innes, Remuera, St Heliers, Epsom, Panmure and Meadowbank — have long been not-so-well-kept-secret spots for savvy fashionistas to nab a stylish bargain.

"We are constantly amazed by the incredible donations we receive," says executive director Julie Sexton.

"When people give us their once-loved items, they can be safe in the knowledge that the money raised from our stores allows the clinical team at Dove House to deliver the exceptional service to our patients, their families, carers and the bereaved."

Last winter, Playpark by Karen Walker hosted a Dove Hospice pop-up featuring a covetable edit of hand knits that was an instant hit with Karen Walker customers and the community.

The much-loved pop-up will be returning in June, so among the clothing donations coming into the stores, Karen Walker and hospice shop staff will be on the lookout for hand-knitted items — though clothing of any kind, brand and age is welcomed.

Walker says her and her team and many of their customers are big vintage clothing lovers.

"There's nothing quite like finding unique pre-loved gems to give a new lease of life to."

"Clothing should never be trash" says Walker. "With our own designs our aim is to produce beautifully crafted items that will be well worn and enjoyed for decades, special pieces that are circulated for as long as possible before they're repurposed for another use."

Find Karen Walker's Dove Hospice collection points from 1-30 April at 6 Balm Street, Newmarket; 128A Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby; and 18 Te Ara Tahuhu Walking Street, Britomart.

Written by Josie Steenhart.