Guest Editor’s Guide To Op Shopping

Our lovely Guest Editor Em from Spin Dizzy Fall brings us her top tips for thrift shopping! 

Opportunity shops, thrift stores, charity shops, second hand whatever you want to call them, Op-shops are filled with vintage treasure and surprises that you just can’t know until you visit.

Nowadays there are lots of amazing vintage stores and online sellers to get your vintage fix but sometimes if you need that certain something special to complete an outfit the best way is to search at the source!

Due to the recent vintage trends in the past  5 years most op-shop prices have steadily risen however it’s the bargain that is the most satisfying when on a vintage hunt so in this post I’ll be giving a few tips and tricks about op shops.

1. The first step is to locate your local Op-shop! ‘Salvos’, ‘Vinnies’ and Savers (VIC) are most common. Often the area you shop in will make an impact on prices so sometimes little Op-shops will give you a better bargain!

2. SALES! I’ve found that ‘Salvos’ is your best bet for sales as they will run a 50% off different coloured tags each week. Vinnies will run sale days each month so check with your local store for the dates.

3. If you searching for something in a hurry places that colour code their stock, such as ‘Vinnies’, are very helpful!

4. Always check for damage when buying clothes and don’t be afraid to try things on before you buy! Often items such as vintage jeans look can look very different when on the hanger.

5. Tip five is an odd one but is always discussed amongst avid op-shoppers; Check the kids sections. One of my favourite denim jackets was found in the kids section! Sometimes they have been placed in the wrong place but in my case my jacket is just ‘cropped’.

6. Don’t forget about jewellery, sunglasses, bags, belts and shoes! It may not be what your looking for but every now and then you can  stumble across a gem!

7. Always check the label. You never know, you could be walking out with a vintage designer piece! Don’t be afraid of an eccentric design as you can always dress it down.

8. Lastly, if you find something you love but it is too long or too big you can always take it home and get crafty! Take up the hem or cut off the collar. A little DIY every now and then gets the inspiration flowing!

Happy Hunting!

All images belong to Spin Dizzy Fall