A student-led initiative in Oxford promotes diversity and eco-friendly practices through clothing swaps and communal activities.
The Cowley Community Closet, a collective initiated by students Delphi, Abby, and Connie, has emerged as a notable endeavor in Oxford, aiming to foster diversity and inclusivity while aligning with anti-capitalist values. The collective began its journey with clothing swap events as a means for community members to exchange garments, thus promoting sustainable practices amidst concerns over waste and ethical issues in the fashion industry. Recently, Delphi spoke to Cherwell about the collective’s evolution and its significance within the local community.
The genesis of the Cowley Community Closet was deeply rooted in personal connections, as Delphi recounted, “it was just kind of serendipitous. Abby and I went to secondary school together, so we’ve known each other since we were eleven, and we both went on to do our postgraduate degrees at Oxford and met Connie there at a party. We just got along really well.” This camaraderie led to shared experiences, including hair-dye parties and clothing swaps, inspiring them to open their doors to others. Initially, the project exceeded their expectations in growth and community engagement.
Central to the collective’s mission is the principle of fostering a community that operates outside the confines of traditional commerce. Delphi elaborated on this ethos, stating, “Particularly within the fashion industry, there’s so much waste and there’s so much abuse of human rights that it was a no-brainer. We don’t orient ourselves around financial value at all.” The model employed by the closet utilizes a token system that allows individuals to swap items without worrying about monetary exchanges, emphasizing the importance of items finding new homes rather than their potential cash value.
Originally locating their events at The Star pub in Cowley, the increasing popularity of the clothing swaps necessitated a move to Common Ground in Jericho, offering more space for participants. However, with concerns rising regarding the future of Common Ground due to proposed redevelopment plans by the University and recent eviction challenges faced by similar initiatives in Cardiff, the conversation about preserving communal spaces has become pertinent. Delphi highlighted the vital role of community-building, stating, “Yes, the clothing is great but it’s so much more than that.”
Delphi, who identifies as a wheelchair user, acknowledged a lack of sober and accessible spaces for young people, emphasizing the benefits of social interaction. “We were keen to not have it situated in the university either. We love it when students are there, but we also want it to be somewhere that feels open and accommodating to people who are residents,” she explained.
The collective has expanded its offerings to include free self-defense classes, a response to community interest. Delphi shared the story of Emily, a jiu-jitsu instructor who suggested the classes during a swap event. The sessions have quickly gained traction, illustrating another element of the collective’s community-driven approach.
With a rich history of organizing hundreds of swap shops, Delphi reflected on the personal treasures discovered through the initiative. “Ooh, I think I probably know that for everyone. Mine has to be this beautiful pink tulle skirt. It’s hot pink, it matches my hat, it’s fluffy,” she noted. Abby and Connie also have their cherished finds, highlighting the sense of joy and value found in the items exchanged.
Through its combination of sustainability, community engagement, and anti-capitalist principles, the Cowley Community Closet has established itself as not just a clothing swap, but a vibrant hub for social interaction and shared experiences in Oxford.
Source: Noah Wire Services
