Thrift shopping is both rewarding and sustainable way to find hidden gems while saving on the cha-ching. Here’s our two cents’ worth on making the most your op shop experience.
SUPPORT A CAUSE: some thrift stores support charitable causes. Consider shopping at stores that align with your values.
QUALITY CHECK: be zealous when it comes to a quality check. Look for signs of wear and tear, stains, or damage. Some wear and tear are expected in second-hand items but a lot of times you could walk away with brand new items that make the fashion cut.
BRAND NAMES: keep an eye out for well-known brand names. If it’s your lucky day, you could find designer or high-quality items at a fraction of their original price.
UNIQUE ITEMS: thrift stores often have unique or vintage items that you won’t find in regular retail stores. Look for one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal style quotient.
Furniture and home decor: check for furniture and home decor pieces that can be easily customised to fit your home. Solid wood furniture can be refurbished to make a designer statement. A lot of creatives have made a business out of it.
BOOKS AND MEDIA: thrift stores are excellent places to discover books, vinyl records, and other media at a pittance. You might stumble upon rare treasure or out-of-print item.
BARGAIN HUNTING: keep an eye out for discounts, sales, or special promotions at the thrift store. A lot of charity shops offer discounts on certain days.
UNSEASONAL ITEMS: The trick is to look for winter coats in the summer and swimwear in the winter to find the best deals.
Patience: It may take time to find the perfect item, so be prepared to browse and visit thrift stores regularly. It’s a small price to pay for bargain hunters.
ECO-FRIENDLY: thrift shopping is not only for eco warriors but recommended for everyone who’d like to work towards sustainability, one item at a time. By buying second-hand, you contribute to reducing waste and the environmental impact of fast fashion.
GRATITUDE: make time to thank the volunteers who give up all their time and energy to work in op shops as they contribute their mite to local communities. The silver lining being, the money earned by charity shops goes towards a range of good causes to help humanity.
