As a photographer, Helen O’Callaghan has always been drawn to people, their stories and the connections that exist within communities. And as an avid proponent of vintage clothing and circular fashion, combining those two passions through photography and visual storytelling was her dream project. And so, Restyled: The Second Edit was born.
“I began to wonder whether it was possible to create a high-end editorial fashion shoot using only clothing sourced from local charity shops while challenging the perception that second-hand fashion is somehow less desirable than buying new,” Helen says.
Over the next few weeks, she began planning what she would need to execute the perfect photoshoot, starting with sourcing every garment and accessory from St Vincent de Paul and Adapt House charity shops across Limerick.
As she worked, what started as a fashion concept evolved into something much bigger. Through the sourcing process, Helen saw first-hand the incredible work being done by charity shop managers, staff and volunteers and the important role these spaces play within local communities.
The styling process took several weeks and involved multiple sourcing trips to these charity shops. Helen wasn''t looking for specific labels or trends but rather pieces that felt timeless, elegant and capable of telling a story while matching the personalities of each participant she had carefully selected to model the clothes.
“My inspiration was to create a fashion editorial that could sit comfortably beside any contemporary magazine shoot while proving that every item came from a charity shop. I wanted the styling to feel elevated, sophisticated and completely unexpected.”
Fashion finds
And she certainly unearthed some gems. For this project alone, Helen discovered an Alexander McQueen Dragonfly dress that originally retailed for almost €1,000 and purchased it for €50. She found a Kate Moss dress that retailed at approximately €300 being sold for €20, and a beautiful Benetti cashmere overcoat that would have cost around €800 new which she snapped up for only €70.
“Those finds perfectly capture what I love about charity shopping,” she said. “It''s not just about saving money; it''s about discovering beautiful, quality pieces that deserve to be worn, appreciated and given a second life.”
Using “real people” to model the clothes was a key part of the project. Helen wanted to show that style has nothing to do with age, profession, background or body type. More importantly, she was keen for people to see themselves reflected in the images and to realise that fashion doesn''t belong exclusively to professional models, influencers or luxury brands.
“The models came from my everyday life and from chance encounters. Amelia O''Shaughnessy, a young girl with special needs, joined the project after I met her mum Louise at another photoshoot.
“John McKay, a retired gentleman, was someone I met while photographing another project for a client. John and his partner were sitting having a coffee when she mentioned how much he loved having his photograph taken and before long, he had become part of the project too.
“Then there was Margaret O''Keefe, whom I met while walking my dog in the woods. We stopped for a chat and I was struck by her warmth and kindness. After some gentle encouragement, she agreed to step in front of the camera. What was so lovely was how naturally she fitted in with everyone else on the day.”
The cast also included students Ailísh and Aeibhín Houlihan and Eimear Neenan, working mother Mairéad Madden, business owner and health coach Elva O''Conaire, and Pat McInerney, a family friend.
“None of them were professional models, but they brought something far more valuable; authenticity, personality and heart.”
Labour of love
Despite the scale of the work involved, the project was entirely self-initiated and undertaken on a voluntary basis. Helen didn’t charge fees for her time developing, styling, directing or photographing the editorial and she was heartened to see the generosity and support of local businesses, charities and volunteers who believed in the vision.
“For me, it was an opportunity to use my skills as a photographer to give something back to organisations that support others every day, while highlighting the value of charity shops, sustainable fashion and community connection.”
That is something that is sorely lacking in today’s world of online shopping, AI assistants and same-day delivery.
“Charity shops are places where people meet, chat, volunteer, work and support causes that help others,” Helen explained. “I wanted to celebrate not only sustainable fashion, but also the people behind it.”
The title Restyled: The Second Edit reflects that philosophy. The clothes are being given a second life, but so too are the stories attached to them. Helen wanted the project to be both a love letter to circular fashion and a quiet rebellion against our throwaway culture, proving that sustainability and self-expression can coexist beautifully.
Charity shops are places where people meet, chat, volunteer, work and support causes that help others,” Helen explained. “I wanted to celebrate not only sustainable fashion, but also the people behind it
The photoshoot took place in the luxurious Sallymount House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick. Helen declared it the perfect backdrop because it created a beautiful contrast between the elegance of the setting and the sustainable nature of the clothing.
“I am incredibly grateful to the owners of Sallymount House, Patrick Hartigan and Angelica Garcia, who generously made the venue available free of charge in support of the project,” she said. “Their kindness and belief in what we were trying to achieve allowed us to bring the vision to life in a setting that perfectly complemented the story.”
In her role as photographer, Helen was thrilled that even though many of the people involved had never modelled before, they brought such confidence, personality and authenticity to the images.
“The house itself was stunning. Every room had its own character and the basement looked like something from a movie set. I wanted everyone to feel relaxed and valued, so I stayed up late the night before preparing an afternoon tea with homemade treats and plenty of tea and coffee. And a special shoutout to Ger, Rachel and Niamh for their support behind the scenes!”
Through this project, Helen hopes to redefine the narrative around second-hand clothing by proving that sustainability and style go hand in hand. She is passionate about putting a spotlight on the hardworking nature of charity shops and reminding people that they are worthy of our custom.
“The biggest misconception is that charity shops only contain outdated or unwanted items. People are often surprised by the quality, value and variety available once they take the time to browse,” Helen said.
“I love the experience of walking into a charity shop without knowing what you might discover. Every visit is different and that''s part of the magic. Whether it''s clothing, furniture, accessories or homeware, there are so many wonderful items simply waiting to be discovered, loved again and given a new chapter in someone else''s home and life. Every piece has a story, and that''s something I find incredibly special.”
Restyled: The Second Edit clothes curated from a mix of vintage, pre-loved, and reclaimed garments, each one selected for its character, texture, and story. See svp.ie; helenocallaghanphotography.com; adaptservices.ie; sallymounthouse.com
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