Top 10 Pre-Loved Shopping Tips

How to Shop Pre-Loved

Have you ever bought pre-loved? Or ‘secondhand’ as is the slightly outdated and less attractive term?

Do you cringe at the thought of putting your naked body into something that has previously adorned the naked body of a stranger? Or do you relish the idea of bringing life to a newfound gem that has been hiding amongst a rail of unique and non-fashion dictated garments?

I know categorically I have clients sitting in both camps. And that’s ok!

But there is certainly a growing acceptance for shopping pre-loved and more and more folks are partaking. If you haven’t yet jumped on the charity shop train then read on for my expert opinion on exercising caution.

Introducing pre-loved items to your wardrobe can really add to your unique style and save you £100s on full-priced items. But be careful you don’t enter into a perpetual cycle of buying as it can become quite addictive when you think you are making huge savings. Replacing fast-fashion shopping habits for another form of shopping habit does not address the problem of having a wardrobe full of clothes with nothing to wear. These are my top ten tips to help keep the balance.

Ten Top Tips for buying pre-loved

DO assess what you already have before you buy more

Just because it’s secondhand it doesn’t mean you need double the amount

DO know your best colours and styles and stay within that remit

Just because it’s a bargain it doesn’t mean you will wear it. Knowing what suits you is priceless and will afford you much more value and versatility.

DO be prepared to scour

Shop regularly and enjoy the browse. A day when you come home empty handed is a day you didn’t make a mistake. Sometimes a great piece of jewellery or a belt can be just as good a discovery as a jacket or boots.

DO look for quality brands

A cheap brand is still a cheap brand even if it’s at a rock bottom price. A quality item will last you longer and you will look and feel better wearing it. Avoid low price High Street brands and fast fashion.

DO try on

Only buy what fits you now. If it doesn’t fit you it will hang in your wardrobe taunting you and take up space for the amazing item you should have held out for. PLUS trying on will help you identify faulty zips, missing buttons, less visible tears.

DO check for full prices of branded items

Also check signs of authenticity on labels or buttons. It’s always good to know how much you actually saved.

DON’T buy something you can’t pair with at least five items you already own

If it’s not versatile you won’t wear it then it was never a bargain. A fully sustainable wardrobe you will you to create more outfits with less items.

DO be prepared to spend a little more on altering an item if it is perfect in every other way. If a pair of trousers is too long but fits perfectly everywhere else then assess whether they are worth a little extra investment to become your next perfect-length favourites. Similarly if a colour is not quite right could it be dyed?

DO look at the whole rail

It can be easier to browse a charity shop where everything is filed in size however things can get moved. Sizing can differ from brand to brand. Your next gem could be sitting in the wrong size section or the next size up could be altered to fit you beautifully.

Have fun pre-loved shopping and remember to look for second hand NOT second best!!!

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