Most of my wardrobe is second-hand – I mean, why not? There are already enough clothes out there, so I’d rather keep things going instead of adding to the demand for new stuff. Plus, I’m constantly amazed how much cash you can save by going second-hand.
I get that shopping at op shops or second-hand stores can be a bit daunting at first, but here are some of my go-to tips to get you started on your pre-loved fashion shopping:
- Find your vibe: There is a huge array of second-hand shopping experiences. From beautifully curated consignment stores (that sell on behalf of people) to shops overflowing with bargains that you need to spend hours fossicking through. There is also a whole world of second-hand shopping options online where you don’t even have to leave the couch. Shopping for pre-loved fashion is far from a one-size-fits-all…find the shopping experience that suits you.
- Know your style: I’ve found having an idea of the colours and styles that suit me is a huge help when I hit the second-hand stores. Most stores are sorted by colour, so I can easily skip the sections that don’t interest me. Then I can just skim through the racks and ignore any cuts or styles that don’t make the cut.
- Ignore the tags: I don’t usually pay much attention to size labels because different brands can vary so much and clothes may have changed shape from being worn. If an item looks vaguely my size I’ll try it on.
- Check the quality: Give items a good once-over before you buy them. Check for any wear and tear, but remember that with a little fixing up, you could totally give it a new lease on life. So, don’t be afraid to give that jacket a chance – a small repair or alteration could be all it needs.
- Be honest: Buying second-hand stuff can be super tempting because it’s usually so damn cheap. But to save a cluttered wardrobe and buying stuff that I never wear, I’ve learned to ask myself a question before purchasing – if I wouldn’t pay full price for it, I skip it.
Give second-hand fashion shopping a whirl – you might just be surprised at the treasures you will find and the money and impact you will save.
Photography by: Lara Connors
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