6 secrets to successful op-shopping
Charity op-shops are a veritable treasure troves of wardrobe stars and living room eye-catchers just waiting to be given a second chance, but it can sometimes be daunting to think about braving the jumble to find the gems. But we’ve got tips that will help you make the most of your local op-shops.
1. Make friends
Second hand stores don’t typically run slick advertising campaigns about sales, or issue catalogues to let you know what’s new in stock. So if you’re going to be a regular, it’s a good idea to make nice with the staff so they can make sure you know about any deals or new arrivals as soon as you walk through the door.
2. Ask questions
If you don’t find it easy to make friendly chitchat with salespeople, then feel free to come right out and ask the important questions like when new stock arrives.
3. Return often
You won’t strike gold every time you visit an op-shop – it’s part of the deal. But if you return regularly, and at different times, you could just find something spectacular – whether it be a gorgeous dress or coat, or a striking vase for your coffee table.
4. Look things up
If you find something you love the look of, but you’re not sure of the quality, then try looking up the designer or manufacturer using your phone. You just might discover that this piece is something best left on the shelf. Then again, you could find out that you have an under-priced treasure on your hands.
5. Spend time
If you’ve only spent five minutes in a charity shop before declaring that it has nothing of value, then you’re not doing the thing right. You may need to dig through a surface layer of average finds to get to the diamonds in the rough. Rummage through the racks and look closely at those shelves.
6. Look for potential
If you’re looking for a certain colour, and are having trouble tracking it down, then switch gears and go for a shape or silhouette that works for you – you can always have a go dying the garment or spray painting an ornament once you get it home.
What’s your best op-shop find? Share it with us in the comments below!