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.

“So many of us have beautiful clothes, shoes and handbags sitting in our wardrobes that we simply don’t wear anymore. They still have value and The Giving Closet turns that value into something that can make a real difference to another woman … We’re inviting women to give in whatever way works for them – by donating beautiful fashion they no longer wear, volunteering their time, or coming along to shop and taking home an incredible piece. Or, even better, doing all three,” she said.

Perry said supporting The Giving Closet reflected something that had been important throughout his career – celebrating and empowering women.

“Unfortunately, not all women have what many of us take for granted – a roof over their head, financial independence and a safe home free from abuse and harm. I’m proud to partner with The Giving Closet in the hope that I can help, even in the smallest way, to make a difference and raise much-needed funds for women in real need.”

Hope Network CEO Amelia Pickering said funds raised would help the organisation continue supporting women as they rebuild their lives after prison.

According to Hope Network, five per cent of the women it has supported after release have returned to prison, compared with almost 40 per cent across Victoria.

CWES CEO Rebecca Glenn said, “Every dollar raised through The Giving Closet will help us reach more women experiencing family violence with the information and support they need.”

For more information follow

The Giving Closet on Instagram

@thegivingcloset_au