The second-hand fashion revolution is here, it’s now cool to be conscious, save unwanted threads from landfill and fill your wardrobe with pre-loved outfits.
Now, before you say ewww. Have you ever stepped inside an op shop?
Let me tell you, it’s like an Aladdin’s cave of treasures just waiting to be discovered.
With Salvos stores now turning into mini style boutiques, your chances of finding a coveted pair of Manolos or Burberry coat, are easier than ever.
Op shopping can be a little overwhelming and you do need to approach it with a plan so, I’ve enlisted the help of eco stylist Faye De Lanty of Fashion Hound TV .
Pay close attention because this lady can take a hessian sack and tinfoil and make it look like haute couture!
Seriously though, Faye is changing how we see second hand fashion and opening our eyes to the endless outfit possibilities hiding at your local Salvos shop.
Here are seven op shopping tips to get you started on your op-shopping adventures.
1. Educate yourself and be hungry for knowledge
Read Fashion magazines, look at style websites, research brands, check out the trends, understand cut, color, fabric and form. The more you know the better you can op shop.
2. Be prepared
Go shopping with an idea in mind to avoid that overwhelming feeling.
3. Follow the fashion fundamentals
Seek out and stick to the classics. Timeless pieces like a great pair of jeans, a white tee, a little black dress, a trench coat. Op shops are filled with great versions of these and once you have them you can build and play with the trends from there.
4. DIY and customize
You don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars for ripped jeans or a bejeweled clutch when you can make it yourself. Surf the world wide web for inspiration.
5. Shop the Store
Don’t just look in your section. Half my wardrobe is from the men’s section. Try it on, you never know.
6. Become friends with your regular op shops
Get to know when they receive new donations.
7. Set a good tailor on speed dial
Maybe the Chanel jacket you found has boxy shoulder pads, but if you have it altered it will still be so much cheaper than the original price tag.
If you head over to the Fashion Hound site and subscribe to their newsletter you will receive a BONUS 5 tips on how to score the 2017 trends from a thrift store!
Image source: Faye De Lanty – Fashion Hound
