Top tips for charity shop shopping
It’s become much more “socially acceptable” for fashionistas
to frequent charity shops recently. Previously being something you wouldn’t
admit to your best friend, let alone through your blog and with the internet,
being thrifty is now totally on trend and something to be proud of! Every penny
counts right?!
Despite the cheap prices of many of these shops, you need to
ensure that you aren’t just getting sucked in because something is cheap. One
dress might only cost £3, but if you buy 5 that you didn’t really want that soon adds up!
Here are my top tips for charity shop shopping:
1.
Found a total bargain? It is only a bargain if
you get wear out of it! Ensure that you can picture it working with at least 2
other outfits, this way you know it will get worn.
2.
If you’re looking for vintage clothing look
through everything! Vintage sizing is often much smaller than that of high
street stores, something labelled a size 14 may be more a modern day 8 for
example! So don’t ignore the size 18 rack just because you are a size 12!
3.
The best bargains will be found at charity shops
which aren’t part of a chain, your local hospital or any other local good cause
might have one set up. You’ll find bargains here because they just want to
raise whatever money they can as quickly as possible; the larger stores that
can afford to hold on to items until they sell for the highest price and
sometimes sell online too.
4.
Look out for designer labels; they might not be
your size but if they are good quality they will sell well on eBay or at a
vintage fair, alternatively you can always have them altered to fit your size.
5.
Take your time! Charity shops aren’t a place to
visit in a rush. Spend as long as you can looking at each rail, shelf and
corner. You never quite know what might be hidden away!
6.
Winter or Summer coming to an end? This is the
best time to visit and stock up for next year! People tend to have a big clear
out at the end of a season to stock up for the next, this will work in your
favour and you will get some great bargains!
7.
Change! Try and always use small change in
charity shops, it makes it less embarrassing when you want to buy a 20p
necklace and only have a £20 note! Plus, charity shops don’t always carry huge
amounts of change.
8.
Remember you can always alter clothing. Found
some designer jeans for a bargain price, but they are just a few inches too
long? It isn’t difficult to take these up, equally a long top can easily be
made in to a crop top if you prefer! Picture whether you can do anything to
improve an item, but make sure you have the time/equipment/mum to do it!
I hope these tips help in some way! Charity shopping is often akin to a
military operation, especially when a similar sized girl is browsing at the
same time as you!
What are your top tips for Charity shop shopping?
Katrina
A
UK fashion, beauty & lifestyle blog
