Scottish Catholic Observer

Kitted Out, previously known as Posh Threads Paisley, are a team who lend high-quality dresses, kilts and suits for families whose children are due to make their First Communion, as well as clothing for funerals, proms and other events—all free of charge.

The confidential service aims to alleviate financial pressure on families during occasions which might require special clothing that will be worn only once.

The initiative has proved successful, with families from near and far hiring the clothing.

Due to their increasing popularity, Kitted Out are appealing for more donations of any suitable items of clothing that are no longer needed, especially boys clothing such as kilts and shoes.

Deborah Russell, inset, manager of Kitted Out, said: “First Communion should be a time to celebrate and not worry about the financial aspect, so we’ve been trying to share that with the schools and wider community, and we take referrals from anybody who knows somebody in need.

“If anyone is considering donating clothes, we will take a look at what they have to offer.

“What we find is that people are often thinking, ‘I’ve got these dresses or suits lying in my wardrobe and there are people out there who could really use them.’

“We’ve actually been overwhelmed by the generosity of people.”

Kitted Out is based in a storage unit in Paisley, but operates much further afield.

The group is also aiming to help the environment, with Mrs Russell and her team describing their work as ‘sustainable fashion,’ meaning that clothes worn once will be given a new lease of life instead of being thrown away.

“A big part of it is about alleviating the financial ­pressure—you don’t want people getting into debt when they can rent the clothes free of charge,” Mrs Russell said.

“But it’s also about sustainable fashion—dresses not going to landfills or rotting away in someone’s cupboard.”

Mrs Russell recalled one person who was initially a little embarrassed to accept the help, but after assuring them they would be helping the environment they felt more comfortable.

—To book an outfit or donate an item of clothing, email [email protected]