Op shopping in Australia is fantastic. It's a great way to avoid purchasing new and perfectly good cast-offs from heading to landfill, and you're lending your support to charities around the country. But for people who aren't lifelong op shoppers, these secondhand wonderlands can be confusing and intimidating.
Admit it, you've been there. You get courageous, venture outside the modern retail store and dabble in a little op shopping... only to take a step through the door and feel instantly overwhelmed. Row upon row of stacked clothes and bric-a-brac in every corner. Eeek! You leave, running for your closest coffee shop to breathe deeply, inhale some caffeine and de-stress. But fear not, sceptical shopper. You can change that situation quicker than you can say 'I love to op shop!'
1. Be armed with knowledge: Learn about clothing cuts, colours and styles before you launch headfirst into the world of op shopping. The best way to walk away with quality bargains is to stay fashion forward, but be open to trying new things that might work for your individual style. Taking time to know what pieces are of better quality will give you a keen eye for designer finds, quality fabrics and classic cuts. More on that here (Thrifting for Better Quality Brands and Fabrics)
2. Be selective about where you shop: Not all op shops were created equal so you need to be discerning with location. If you're looking for designer items, try secondhand stores in more affluent suburbs or even in regional towns. Depending on the area, stock will vary and some stores will receive higher quality donations than others. Research the shops in your area before you go to find out their main stock drop off days. The days following (when they've been unloaded onto the racks) is when you'll have the best chance of finding new items.
3. Shop when you have time: This is not a challenge to attempt when you're time poor. Op shops are best tackled when you have a whole day or an afternoon dedicated to the task. In that time you could easily get through a few shops in your local area. Having time to shop will allow you to feel fabrics for quality like wool or silk and look out for prints and colours you like.
4. Dress appropriately: What's the best outfit to wear op shopping? Firstly, it needs to be comfortable to walk around in for a few hours. Secondly, you need to be able to slip it on and off in the change rooms with relative ease. Think about taking a bag with a long strap. You can sling it across your body, leaving your hands free for more important scrounging! Flats or sandals are a good choice for shoes. Go for something without laces or socks to meddle with when you're trying on potential purchases.
5. Be selective where you can: Going into an op shop with an open mind is always the best approach. If you have something specific you're looking for - great! But make sure you're open to other colours or styles. You just never know what you might find while you're there.
6. Know your bargain days: Every week, the Salvos have half price specials on a particular coloured tag, as all items are marked with a colour. So if it's half price purple tag week, keep an eye out for those purple tags! Salvos have also recently introduced a loyalty card system. You can read about it here. Good Sammys also offer discounts throughout the year.
7. Don't forget the jewellery rack: Some of the best items can be found in the jewellery section, so don't forgo things on the racks, behind the counter or items on display in cabinets before you leave! You can find some real quality items in real silver or gold if you take the time to look. Check out that glass cabinet at the register and ask if the staff can take it out so you can rummage through. You might just find something valuable or unique! Here's a post I did on some of my recent finds.
8. Check the entire store: Hardworking volunteers are the lifeblood of op shops in Australia. They spend hours organising and labelling items up for sale. But combine a huge stock intake and customers who don't always return items to their original home, and clothing can end up all around the store. I once found a beautiful knitted blouse in the children's section. So check out all the racks for fashion and treasures. You never know what you might find.
9. Think 'up-cycle': Up-cycling takes sustainable living to a whole new level. Clothing materials can be up-cycled into children's clothing or bags. Fabrics can make great cushion covers, mugs could be reused as small plant holders. Use that imagination and be creative! Pinterest and Etsy are great places to look for inspiration.
10. Give back: I'm a big believer in sustainable living and good karma, so when it comes to end of the season a huge spring clean is always in order. Take out those pieces that haven't made it out of the closet all winter and donate them to your local op shop. What comes around, comes around, eh?
Need some inspiration? Check out my Pinterest account.
If you have any great op shopping tips or experiences, share them in the comments below!
