Money-saving fun!

I have always been a self-confessed bargain hunter. These days however I’m very aware of sustainability and of course the current cost of living crisis. So this year when looking for clothes, charity shops will always be my first port of call.

Even though I don’t mind whether clothes are designer or not, I have noticed a variety of gems from Gerry Weber, Karen Millen, Karl Lagerfield,Windsmoor, Tommy Hilfiger, Whistles, Peruna to name but a few. And let’s not forget those wonderful accessories. Those scarves, bags, jewellery or belts and shoes. Great value but also fabulous for refreshing, re-inventing or jazzing up outfits that you already have. This Christmas I found a necklace in Scope that cost me just £2. I’ve seen similar in Marks and Spencer where you wouldn’t get much change from £30!!! 

One of my current mantras is ‘do the opposite’. This could apply to an alternative way of thinking, reacting or even choice of outfit. Sometimes during my Saturday trawl around the charity shops I make a point of choosing something way out of my comfortable zone. This can be quite an eye-opener and it hasn’t cost me very much. 

Charity shopping can also be a bit of an art. There is a case for seeking out some of the more affluent areas for the more designer ranges. Knowing your colours too can really help to choose items that will flatter your natural shades and tones and saves time when scanning the rails. Most charity shops now are organised into size and colour as well as vintage. It helps too to understand your body shape and to choose outfits that will balance and flatter your natural lines and curves. 

So, a stylish wardrobe doesn’t always have to come with a huge price tag. Charity shopping can be fun, very satisfying and also purse and planet friendly. My pre-loved clothes now enjoy the same status and kudos as those previously purchased brand new from The High Street.