Since it's Second Hand September, I thought I'd share what I've thrifted over the last few months. What I bought, how much I paid, and the money I saved from choosing second-hand rather than buying new. I'm hoping that in sharing my second-hand finds, it will inspire you to go out and thrift for what you need, clothes but also homewares too. If my year of second-hand shopping taught me anything it's that there is so much stuff to be found in charity shops and online marketplaces.
Thrifting is the easiest and most affordable way to stay on-trend, which also happens to be one of the most eco-friendly ways to shop. If, like me, your post-lockdown style has shifted, you may be looking to refresh your wardrobe. To avoid thrifted regrets, plan ahead. I've pinned style inspiration to my Autumn mood board in anticipation of my next seasonal capsule; identifying the gaps in my wardrobe that I can thrift for. Sticking to a list helps avoid thrifted regrets.
If you're new to thrifting or would like some tips for finding the good stuff, read this guide to thrifting online and in-person including thrifting on eBay and selling on Depop.
Dresses
COS Wrap Dress - £40 (RRP: £70)
Monki Strapless Dress - £16.70 (RRP: £30)
Usually I wouldn't spent quite so much on a thrifted dress. I made an exception with this worn-only-once item and I'm glad I did. The style, the fit - it's perfect. COS make some fantastic pieces but they're a fast fashion brand (owned by H&M) so I'd never buy from them new. There are always plenty of eBay listings and, if you're lucky, you can find a few in charity shops too for a much better price.
The second dress I thrifted recently is a strapless maxi dress. Originally from Monki and with its tags still on. It's already proven to be a great purchase, and one I can see myself wearing this all year not just for summer.
Shoes
Dr Martens Boots - £40 (RRP: £149)
Dr Martens Sandals - £40 (RRP: £89)
Shoes can really change the feel of a look. Especially when you wear the same outfits on repeat. I already have a few pairs I wear regularly, and couldn't justify buying any more new. Thrifting for them was a different matter though. After putting together my Autumn mood board, I noticed I was leaning towards heavy boots. I thrifted a pair of (lightly worn) Dr Martens for significantly less than the retail price. I also bought a pair of brand new Dr Martens Sandals that were only being sold because they were too small.
Shopping right before end of summer or winter means you can capitalise on the change in season right before others are shopping for similar clothing. I got a good deal on my second-hand shoes because it was slightly too late in summer to buy sandals, and slightly too early to buy boots. So there wasn't as much competition thrifting online for them.
Coats
UNIQLO Ultra Light Parker - £10 (RRP: £60)
Pastel Parker - £27.20 (RRP: £90-200)
I found a never worn UNIQLO Ultra Light Parka in a charity shop. Originally £60, purchased for £10. It's thin yet warm making a great liner under light coats. This is something I'll be sharing with my partner because I bought a pastel puffer on eBay. It's by a Korean brand called Cotton Sugar’s, and was originally £90 before import fees. Lazy Oaf made an identical version that cost £200; and when I say identical I mean, it's literally the same jacket... This is going in my activewear capsule for dog walking through autumn and winter.
Eyewear
Vintage Glasses with prescription - £77
I wear glasses every day so they're an intrinsic part of my style. I've been wearing the same frames for the last few years, which I love. I wanted a second pair to switch between for more options. I bought this beautiful pair of 80s geometric vintage frames from Peep Eyewear. Having your prescription put into an old pair of frames you already have, or a restored preloved pair is the most sustainable eyewear option. Want to learn more? Continue reading about sustainable eyewear.
