Dress for Success

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Moving to Sydney has been a transformative chapter in my life - a time of fresh beginnings, new communities, and conscious living. Amid the chaos of unpacking and recreating my space, I found inspiration in the most unexpected way: through a stylish, grounded, and deeply generous colleague, Selina.

Selina volunteers with Dress for Success NSW & ACT, a not-for-profit organisation I had never heard of until she casually shared their mission over a coffee. True to the name, Selina embodied what it means to be “dressed for success,” not just in appearance but in spirit. Her work—and wardrobe—sparked my curiosity and, soon after, my commitment.

This week marked my second donation to Dress for Success NSW & ACT. With every blouse, blazer, and handbag I placed in the donation bag, I felt more connected to their cause. This wasn’t just about decluttering or letting go—it was about letting someone else rise.



Thoughtfully Donated Donation guidlines
As I prepared my donation, I took the time to sort the pieces into meaningful categories:
Professional suits and workwear, ready to empower women for job interviews and first days on the job.
Shoes, for every step forward, whether in heels, flats, or comfortable walking shoes.
Designer and after-five dresses for women who deserve to feel glamorous and confident at formal events or milestones.
Casual clothing ideal for those restarting life after incarceration, escaping domestic violence, or overcoming other challenges.

I learned that clothing not used directly for styling clients is sold to raise vital funds that help cover operational expenses like rent, program delivery, and running costs. Every piece truly finds a purpose.

Who They Are
Founded in 2009, Dress for Success NSW & ACT empowers women across New South Wales to achieve financial independence through access to professional attire, career development, and a support network. From Sydney to Newcastle-Hunter, over 3,000 women a year walk through their doors in pursuit of confidence, dignity, and opportunity.

Programs & services


Styling & presentation skills They provide quality pre-loved clothing, styling and presentation skills to women needing to present themselves well at an important event such as:
-Job interviews
-Starting a new job
-Starting work for further education
-Court appearances
-On release from prison
-Affirming gender as a woman
-Important life events such as funerals, graduations, work-related events

Career Support Program
Dress for Success offers a holistic suite of practical workshops, job search and personal development workshops to help you develop the skills and confidence to maximise your chances of job search and career success. We partner with industry experts to deliver tailored individual assistance:
-Resume Review
-Interview Preparation and Practice
-Career Coaching (six sessions)

What They Stand For
Dress for Success NSW & ACT is about more than clothing. It’s about:
Poverty Alleviation: Helping women gain the confidence and skills to secure employment and become financially independent.
Empowerment: Restoring dignity and resilience in women who may be overcoming significant challenges.
Sustainability: Giving pre-loved clothing a second life while keeping quality garments out of landfills and in the hands of those who need them most.

Why I Give
I felt a deep sense of purpose as I dropped off my donations at the Inner West Sustainability Hub in Summer Hill. These weren't just garments—they were once part of my professional journey and will now become part of someone else’s fresh start.

What moved me even more was understanding how wide-reaching the impact is. Whether it’s helping a woman prepare for her first job interview, supporting someone newly released from incarceration, or providing a confidence boost after escaping domestic violence, Dress for Success NSW & ACT is there—every step of the way.

Get Involved
If you’ve ever felt the pull to contribute—your time, clothes, expertise—Dress for Success NSW & ACT offers countless ways to get involved. Their Volunteer network of over 1,000 people provides 20,000+ hours of service annually, and they’re always looking for more helping hands.

To learn more or book a styling service, visit:

DFSNSWACT Website
Styling Services for work and important life events
Career Hub 24/7 access to build skills and confidence with access to live & on-demand workshops and essential career resources
Volunteer

LOCATIONS:
Lot 1, Inner West Sustainability Hub, 7 Prospect Rd, Summer Hill NSW
Mondays from 10 am – 2 pm
Saturdays from 9 am – 12 pm

Western Sydney Branch – Accepting Donations from April 10
Shop 4, 444 High Street, Penrith NSW
Thursdays from 10 am – 1 pm

Illawarra branch
2/210 Cowper Street, Warrawong NSW
Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 10 am – 1 pm

Newcastle-Hunter branch
82-84 Belford Street, Broadmeadow, Newcastle
Thursdays 9.30 am – 10.15 am: by appointment – click here

And if you're a fashion lover looking for great finds while supporting a great cause, keep an eye out for their Fashion Frenzy fundraising events. These are fun and fabulous ways to score designer bargains while supporting those in need.

Stay up to date with events, workshops, and more by following the official Facebook page:
Dress for Success NSW & ACT Facebook

To book a tour of their premises – please get in touch with the Operations Manager at [email protected]

To the women walking through their doors with hope in their hearts—I see you, I honour you, and I’ll keep donating in your name.

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