With Love Formal Wear pays it forward so every student can “go glam”
Formal season is getting closer, and while it’s an exciting time, the costs can quickly add up—fancy shoes, glamorous dresses or suits, plus jewellery and makeup. The list goes on, and it’s easy to see how these celebrations can break the bank.
That’s where With Love Formal Wear can help. Based in Salisbury, this non-profit is all about easing the financial strain on families during these milestone moments. They offer Year 6 and Year 12 students everything from dresses and suits to shoes, ties, belts, and accessories, all at no cost.
The story behind With Love Formal Wear is as heartfelt as the service it provides. Joss Adele, the charity’s founder, knows firsthand how overwhelming these costs can be. Years ago, a family tragedy struck when Joss’s sister passed away, leaving Joss to care for her sister’s two children. Suddenly a single mother of four, Joss was faced with the challenge of making her niece Sarah’s Year 12 formal special, despite their financial struggles. New to Port Lincoln at the time, the local community wrapped its arms around them, donating everything Sarah needed to feel and look her best on her special night.
That experience stayed with Joss, and when life settled, she decided to pay it forward. Having relocated to Adelaide, she founded ‘With Love Formal Wear’ to ensure other families wouldn’t have to worry about their kids feeling left out during formal season. What started as a small, local effort has grown to help families all over the state, with Joss and her team of family and friends decking out students from head to toe.
“Whatever we can do to help, we love doing,” says Joss, who has seen the charity thrive thanks to community support. From receiving Woolworths’ Community Person of the Year award to free rental space from MRS Property Group, plus charity partners People Choice, With Love Formal Wear has continued to grow. Just recently, they were gifted $6,000 from Young Impact100 SA, a philanthropic group of young people who raise and donate money to charities of their choice.
“With Love Formal Wear has a real community feeling, supporting young people, which has a beautiful domino effect.” – Joss Adele, Founder
They say it takes a village to raise a child and in many cases, it does and the village at With Love Formal Wear are a dedicated bunch. “What can we do to make the world a bit better?” is the motto that drives Joss and her team.
They’re especially passionate about helping regional communities, knowing the barriers country people often face. The process for rural South Aussies to access With Love Formal Wear is simple too – families or schools can contact the team, and they’ll happily courier formal wear across the state at no charge. Local schools are encouraged to reach out for students in need, and Joss and her team will do their best to find outfits that match the students’ preferences. And if you’re heading to Adelaide, they’re even willing to meet after hours or on weekends to help you find the perfect outfit.
Monthly pop-ups also make it easy to access their services, with the next one set for Saturday, September 7.
With Love Formal Wear is all about making these special events unforgettable for every student.
With Love Formal Wear Pop-Up Shop
When: Saturday September 7, 9am – 3pm
Where: 1506 Main North Road Salisbury South
Click here to make a booking
For more information about With Love Formal Wear, click here.
