Meet the Witney woman proving vintage style never goes out of fashion

Through her colourful wardrobe, love of charity shopping and uplifting social media platform, Witney’s Sharon Thomas is inspiring people to embrace sustainable fashion, celebrate their individuality and wear what makes them happy.

For many people, fashion is about keeping up with the latest trends. For Sharon Thomas, it’s something altogether more meaningful.

The Witney mum of five has become a familiar face around town thanks to her vibrant outfits, fearless use of colour and infectious positivity. Now she’s sharing her passion with a growing online audience through Rebel With A Vintage Cause, a social media platform celebrating charity shopping, sustainable style and the confidence to dress for yourself.

“Style doesn’t have to be expensive, brand new or limited by age,” says Sharon. “My message is simple: wear what makes you happy.”

Rather than chasing fast fashion, Sharon delights in discovering hidden treasures in charity shops, giving pre-loved clothing a new lease of life and showing others that great style can be found without spending a fortune.

Her outfits are instantly recognisable for their bold colours and joyful combinations – something she believes does far more than brighten up an outfit.

“I think when you dress in bright, colourful clothes it’s an invitation for conversation,” she says. “People often stop me to comment on an outfit and I’ve met so many wonderful people through those interactions.”

Sharon’s own journey has been anything but conventional. Although school wasn’t the right fit for her, she later returned to education to study illustration before embarking on an entirely new career at the age of 50 by retraining as a hairdresser.

She went on to build a successful career at Verve & Virtue Hairdressing, where she also met her husband, Stefan.

“It’s never too late to learn new skills, change direction or follow your passions!” she says.

Her optimistic outlook has also shaped her personal life. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Sharon and Stefan arranged a whirlwind wedding so that both sets of parents, who had each been diagnosed with cancer, could be there to celebrate with them as restrictions eased.

Community remains central to everything Sharon does, whether she’s chatting to fellow charity shop enthusiasts, encouraging others online or supporting local creatives. One of her favourite photographs – now the cover image on her Facebook page – was taken by local photographer David Stumpp, who spotted her posing against colourful boards in Oxford and offered to capture her portrait.

Today, Rebel With A Vintage Cause is about far more than clothes. It’s a reminder that confidence, creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand.

“I’d love people to worry less about what others think and feel more confident being themselves,” says Sharon. “Life is far more colourful when we embrace our individuality.”

Follow Rebel With A Vintage Cause on Facebook or @rebelwithavintage on Instagram.

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