^ My Top 10 Tips For Shopping Second Hand In Charity Shops

Back in October 2023 I had the most amazing experience organising and hosting a charity fashion show showcasing second hand fashion as part of Winchester Fashon Week (my hometown).

 We raised an incredible amount for 4 separate charities and I had great feedback after the event. People really enjoyed seeing the outfits I put together and indeed we sold nearly all of them after the show! One comment I heard a lot from people though was ‘I love the idea of shopping second hand, but I don’t know here to start’ or ‘I go into a charity shop and just feel overwhelmed’.

 It is fantastic that the appetite to shop second hand is growing. We all need to think about how we can make changes to our shopping habits, be more sustainable and cause less harm to the planet.

So, if you need a helping hand to get started read on for some useful tips that I have learned along the way. I promise you that it is so rewarding once you get the hang of it and you will save money too. Plus, you will be the envy of all your friends in your amazing finds!!

1 If you feel overwhelmed - start slowly

Pop into your local charity shop with the aim of buying 1 thing you need. It could be a sweater or a new bag but giving yourself a focus will be much less stressful than feeling like you have to explore the whole shop, you can just home in on a particular section of the shop.

2 Always make time to try on clothing items.

This is particularly important when shopping second hand as clothing sizes have changed over the years. A size 12 from many retailers 5 years ago will be different to one today so always make time to try on any prospective purchases. If you are a lover of vintage clothing, cuts and styles also vary compared to today’s clothing so again it’s wise to try on to see if something suits you before buying.

3 Stick to the same rules when buying second hand as if you are buying new.

I always tell clients to think of at least 3 ways they will be able wear an item before buying it. This rule goes for second hand too. You do not want to buy something that doesn’t go with anything else you own. You are not saving money if the item will sit unworn in your wardrobe.

4 Don’t buy damaged or stained items.

Most charity shops are very particular about their stock so this shouldn’t be a problem but just do a quick check to make sure there aren’t any tears or marks.

5 Remember that you can make simple adjustments.

Do not be put off buying an item which looks great but may need some minor adjustments. For example, missing buttons/poppers can easily be replaced. Hems can be taken up, waists can be taken in.

6 Look for classics as well as original pieces

For my fashion show I found a handmade, lined silk dress in a vibrant print - it was so beautiful and unique. Charity shops are real treasure troves for finding items such as this but equally they are brilliant for finding those everyday capsule items every wardrobe needs at a fraction of the price so keep a look out for trench coats, winter coats, cosy sweaters, denim dresses etc.

7 Don’t forget the accessories section.

As well as clothing charity shops are fabulous for finding quality bags, jewellery and shoes so always remember to have a little browse in this section. Many items often still have the price tag on and are brand new.  I have found superb accessories second hand including a bright red bag and some brand new dangly silver earrings.

8 Don’t forget the men’s and children’s sections.

I was on the lookout for an oversized blazer recently and I found the perfect one in the men’s section! You can also find great roomy cotton shirts, t-shirts and sweaters too.

If you have school aged kids, you’ll know that it’s sometimes a panic when you are given a week’s notice to put together an outfit for world book day or the Christmas nativity. Don’t forget to visit your charity shops for these items. They always have a brilliant selection of fancy dress costumes!

9 Chat to the volunteers

If you are looking for something in particular it is always worth having a chat with the volunteers. Nearly all charity shops I know have a wealth of stock behind the scenes that they just haven’t got room to put out so your perfect item could be sitting there! They are always so knowledgeable about what they have and are only too happy to help you. When you get to know them you can also ask them to look out for things as stock comes in!

10 Keep an eye on upcoming trends.

As a stylist I like to research up and coming trends for the season and this helps me to spot things which fit the bill second hand. Of course, it’s not all about following trends and only get on board if you think a trend will suit you and you like it but it can be fun to search items out to keep your wardrobe current! For example, I got some fantastic brooches second hand to pin on my blazer and a checked jacket which were both big trends last year and are still going strong.

And Finally…..

Second hand shopping is a wonderful way to support a good cause and give back. Plus, you’ll be helping the planet too. Keeping clothes out of landfill -recycling and re-wearing. Have fun with it and enjoy yourself that is important too!!

If you fancy a charity shopping experience with friends, I run escorted charity shop tours in my hometown of Winchester for up to 4 people which includes a hot drink and pastry.  You can book via experience Hampshire here:

https://experiencehampshire.uk/experience/guided-charity-shop-shopping-experience-in-winchester-520?name=charity

or alternatively send me a message at stylesolutionsbysarah@gmail.com