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A noughties fashion throwback is returning to Manchester and handing out freebies – including tattoos

Better still, the homegrown brand is donating money to a much-loved Manc charity.

Danny Jones - 5th November 2025

Beloved nineties and noughties clothing band Bench is at the beginning of a renaissance, and as they prepare to hand out free samples and even tattoos as part of their ‘Revival Collection’ sale, they’re returning to where it all started: Manchester.

Toasting the Y2K trends that have come back into style, the locally-founded label – started here in our city circa 1989 – is once again looking to make inroads and remind everyone why they were such a cult favourite name to begin with.

Preparing to reinstate its position in the Manc streetwear scene, Bench is set to make its comeback with a massive sample sale right here in Manchester, and there’s plenty of discounted stuff plus complimentary bits up for grabs.

We’re about to dance and dress like it’s 1999.

@bench.official Your first look at our AW25 Revival collection, available exclusively at Bench. Open House at the @Manchester Social this Thursday 6th November 👀 Shop samples old and new (yep, there’s even more available) for exclusive prices at our Manchester city centre sample sale event 💸 #samplesale #manchester ♬ original sound – Bench Official

Spread across three whole floors, the ‘Bench Open House’ and Y2K Revival Collection will be on show at The Manchester Social tattoo studio.

Featuring timeless staples like oversized tees, vintage wash and classic turn-of-the-century style denim, big, baggy sweats and low-slung trousers re-designed for a new era.

Promising “extra goodies” from brands like Isovibe and Sunday Rain to the first 50 purchases on the day, you can expect plenty of familiar makes on show.

Being housed at Manchester Social too, the first 25 guests to book in will get a free flash tattoo on the night, courtesy of the studio’s talented fine-line artists; bookings can be made online or over the phone in advance for this directly.

And that’s no way near all there is on offer…

Those coming along can also enjoy retro gaming, nostalgic beats from live DJs supplying ’90s house party vibes, as well as cool photo ops, cocktails from Zubrowka (bison grass vodka brand), Baby Beer shots by Licor 43, plus non-alcoholic rum cocktails from Caleño. Immaculate energy all night long.

bench clothing manchester — We’re personally loving how much late 1990s/early ’00s fashion is doing the rounds again. (Credit: Press shots)

Most importantly of all, the full proceeds from the sale will be donated to the native homeless charity Mustard Tree, which helps support people across the region.

Joanne Reidy, Head of Marketing at Bench’s parent group Apparel Brands, commented: “At Bench, Manchester isn’t just our home, it’s helped shape our identity.

“We’re proud that every sale from the Open House sample sale will go directly to Mustard Tree, supporting their vital work helping people across the city.”

Jack Barton, Head of Communications at the non-profit organisation, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to be the beneficiary of this event. Our mission is to combat poverty and prevent homelessness – it is down to the goodwill of our Greater Manchester partners who make this possible.

The Bench Open House and sample sale event takes place from 6-10pm at Manchester Social (9 South King Street, M2 6DG) this Thursday, 6 November. It’s completely free entry, but those looking to cop one of the selected designs can book in now.