Tips When Shopping Second-Hand

Thrifting, searching charity shops and shopping second-hand on apps such as Depop and Vinted have becoming increasingly popular. One disadvantage when choosing these options is you cannot guarantee what you're going to find and can sometimes be dis-heartening when seeking that perfect item. Well this post shares tips on how you can try combat this issue and offers guidance and tips when looking for a particular item.

Charity Shops

Let's start with venturing out to your local charity shops, where you can find some second-hand bargains and if you're lucky, a brand new item with tags may be found. Firstly, if you're looking for a specific item, it can be difficult to look for in charity shops because you don't know what you're going to get. If you've just gone out for a browse, then it won't particularly matter. So, if you're heading out to the charity shops, here's some tips prior to your visit:

1. write a list on all the garments you currently need in your wardrobe

2. from your list, label them from need most to not as important

3. think about how many times you're going to wear that item - will is be used a lot?

4. plan a budget and note a limit to avoid over spending

Right, let's get into the shopping part. Most charity shops are divided into garment type, such as an area for trousers, tops and jackets. Recently, I visited a local charity shop which was colour coded, which was aesthetically pleasing on the eye, but somewhat difficult when looking for a particular item only. Asking a shop assistant is always a good idea if you're looking for an item you can't quite find. They may be able to find the perfect fit, or perhaps a similar style for you.

So, you've found a piece you've fallen in love with? It's now time to inspect the garment. As you have the item right in front of you, it's the perfect opportunity to check for tears, stains or missing elements on the garment. If you do find a small tear or stain, think about whether you are able to mend the item or easily get the stain out. Another option could be to take it to a tailor and professional cleaning service to get the item back to its original state. Or, if you're a keen sewer, why not mend it yourself!

Another plus for shopping in-store is that you get the opportunity to try on the items, helping you decide on whether it has a good fit and makes it easier for you to check for faults.

Online second-hand shopping

In comparison to shopping in store where all the garments are in front of you, and can easily be assessed for any stains or tears, shopping second-hand online can be a little difficult to fully inspect. When finding an item you like, asking the seller questions is a perfect opportunity for you to learn more about the item. These could include size dimensions, fit check and any further images of the item you'd like to see. Other tips when buying from second-hand shopping apps are:

1. Check the sellers reviews - are they good or bad?

2. Are the images of the garment clear?

3. See if the seller has noted the fibre content - this will give you an indication on the feel of the item and how to wash

Additional tips when shopping second-hand fashion

As a keen second-hand buyer, here's some few last tips you can think about when on your next shopping adventure:

1. Buy bigger if unsure on size - they can always be tailored to your fit

2. If you're keen to up-cycle, denim is the perfect fabric to re-design, eg. jeans to shorts

3. Knowing when your local stores get new stock in will give you a chance of getting first pick

Hopefully this post has given you some tips when hunting for your second-hand buys. If you have any other ideas, drop a comment below for others to see.

Happy shopping fellow second-hand lovers!

Sabrina Cowper