An illustrious group of Hudson Valley women is reshaping what it means to give back—and they’re inviting the community to join them this spring.

The Cold Spring Thrift Alliance, co-founded by a powerhouse group of artists, filmmakers, musicians, and designers, is hosting its Spring Thrift Apparel Sale on May 3-4 at the historic St. Mary’s in the Highlands, Cold Spring, NY. This is more than a sale; it’s a movement that has raised an average of $20,000 annually for local causes while keeping over 2,000 pounds of clothing in circulation each year. The Alliance also provides clothing vouchers to regional families in need, ensuring that fashion finds its way to those who need it most.

The Women Behind the Mission

At the heart of the Alliance is an illustrious team of Hudson Valley women:
Dar Williams – Renowned folk singer-songwriter and author
Ivy Meeropol – Acclaimed documentary filmmaker
Eugénie Milroy – Expert art conservator
Charlotte Palmer-Lane – Award-winning BBC costume designer
Joanne Russell – Artist and former fashion model
Raquel Vidal – Fashion Stylist and musician 

These women, alongside 50+ volunteers, are driving a growing community movement that champions sustainability, ethical fashion, and local giving.

What to Expect

The Spring Thrift Apparel Sale offers an incredible selection of curated, high-quality secondhand fashion:
Designer brands like Gucci, Oscar de la Renta, and Ferragamo
Everyday favorites like Eileen Fisher, LL Bean, and J.Crew
Vintage pieces in a dedicated “Fancy Room” at affordable prices
On-site Mending Station to promote circular fashion
Curated Shopping Tips to help guests maximize their thrifting experience

The weekend kicks off with a Pre-Sale Party on Friday, May 2 at 5 PM—a chance to toast the community and get first pick of cashmere and designer pieces for a $20 donation.

Beyond Shopping

The Alliance is also expanding its advocacy efforts with documentary film screenings during the sale, including Fashion Reimagined and The True Cost of Fashion, offering insight into the environmental and human costs of fast fashion.

Join a Movement of Purpose

Proceeds from the sale directly benefit the Philipstown Food Pantry and the preservation of St. Mary’s historic campus, reinforcing the Alliance’s commitment to strengthening the Hudson Valley community. Their motto, Omnia Circularia (“All Things Circular”), says it all—this is about giving back, keeping fashion out of landfills, and making an impact locally.

We’d love for you to cover this remarkable story about women-led community action and sustainable fashion. Happy to arrange interviews with Dar Williams or other members of the Alliance, and we can provide photos or event access as needed.  This shopping event draws shoppers from Brooklyn to Connecticut to the Catskills. 

Event Details

Pre-Sale Party: Friday, May 2 @ 5 PM ($20 entry donation)
Main Sale: Saturday & Sunday, May 3-4 | 10 AM – 6 PM
Documentary Screenings: 12 – 5 PM each day
St. Mary’s in the Highlands, 1 Chestnut St., Cold Spring, NY (10-minute walk from the Cold Spring Metro-North station)

For more info: coldspringthriftalliance.org
Follow: @coldspringthriftalliance on Instagram and Facebook