May 12th, 2025
Written by Shylah, a student at Jacob Hespeler Secondary School
Jacob Hespeler Secondary School (JHSS) has a new trendsetter on the rise, but it’s not a student—it’s a store. Run by the school’s Fashion Club, Fabled Fashion is offering students something truly unique. For three days every month, the club opens its doors, and students are invited to browse and take anything they wish—for free.
“I started this store so that students had another way to belong to a community and give back to our community here at Jacob Hespeler Secondary School,” said Lora Wilbee, JHSS teacher sponsor and founder of the club.
In a world where fashion trends are constantly changing, keeping up with the latest styles can be challenging, especially for students who may not have the means to buy new clothes. Fabled Fashion steps in as a solution, providing clothing options without the financial burden. This initiative is not just about staying on-trend; it’s also about ensuring all students have the opportunity to feel confident and comfortable in what they wear.
The store stocks everything from shirts and sweaters to jackets, skirts, and accessories. By offering a wide range of styles and sizes, Fabled Fashion makes sure there’s something for everyone. The project is entirely fueled by donations, and the Fashion Club is continually accepting contributions of all kinds—whether it’s a winter coat, a trendy scarf, or a classic pair of jeans. Every donation helps the store thrive, making it a valuable resource for the school community.
In addition to its many social benefits, Fabled Fashion also promotes sustainable fashion by encouraging students to reuse and recycle clothing, reducing the demand for fast fashion. Fast fashion, known for its quick production cycles and inexpensive prices, has a significant impact on the environment. In fact, the average consumer purchases 60% more clothes than they did 15 years ago, yet keeps them for only half as long.
By offering free, donated clothing, Fabled Fashion reduces the need for students to participate in fast fashion, helping to combat the environmental harm caused by mass-produced, short-lived apparel. This initiative not only allows students to save money, but also contributes to reducing textile waste. Through Fabled Fashion, JHSS is making strides toward a more eco-conscious approach to clothing, teaching students the value of sustainability alongside style.
This initiative goes beyond just providing clothing—it fosters a sense of community and support. Students are not only able to find clothes that fit their style, but they can also contribute to the effort by donating items they no longer need. Fabled Fashion encourages a spirit of generosity and inclusion, transforming fashion into a way for students to help one another while expressing their individuality.
“Honestly, I think this store is a great Idea. My family doesn’t have a lot of money, so most of my clothing is really old and fading away; not very cool. But, this store is really amazing because I can get newer clothing for free,” said a JHSS student. “Thank you guys so much. I really think that this whole thing is amazing.”
The Fashion Club’s efforts are making a real difference, transforming what fashion means at JHSS. By promoting inclusivity and self-expression through clothing, Fabled Fashion ensures no student feels left behind in a world where style is often seen as a symbol of confidence.
#StudentVoice Series
This article is written by a WRDSB student and is part of the Student Agency and Voice program. Student journalists embody WRDSB’s commitment to creating space for students to tell their stories. They are ambassadors for their peers as they share their personal experiences and stories about their schools and communities in their unique voices.
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