Charity launches designer clothing initiative

The latest iteration of The Giving Closet has launched this month, selling donated contemporary and designer women’s fashion to raise funds for two organisations supporting women.

Founded by Melbourne local Lana Black, the social enterprise divides all profits equally between Hope Network, which supports women in and beyond prison, and the Centre for Women’s Economic Safety (CWES), which supports women experiencing economic abuse. Its two Melbourne pop-ups in 2025 traded for a total of 28 hours and raised $45,000, and this year it has moved to a larger space.

The sale opened with a VIP launch event where guests heard from Black as well as representatives from Hope Network and CWES. Following a successful priority access event last week, the sale will now be open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 3pm until stock sells out.

Designer Alex Perry has donated hundreds of gowns, while fashion houses White Story and Ena Pelly have also donated stock. Most items are priced under $150, with a small selection of designer pieces individually priced.

Black said The Giving Closet was about bringing together fun, fashion and philanthropy, creating a simple and enjoyable way for women to help other women.