Aside from finding one-off pieces at amazing prices, I adore how charity shopping breaks down barriers, bringing together women from a multitude of ethnicities and backgrounds through a mutual love of clothes. Every week I rummage through the rails alongside women dressed in hijabs & salwar kameez, waxed cotton kaftans and headwraps to Shein and Marks & Spencer and we excitedly show each other what we've found and discuss what we're going to wear it with.
My Romanian friend (who always calls me "Miss" despite being a good twenty years younger than I am) was curious as to how I'd wear this 1970s black velvet dress as she thought it was a bit plain for me.
I wore it this morning especially for her, albeit under a coat, it was freezing when we left the house at 7am this morning. Here it is in action....she loved it!
I found this beauty in the Compton Hospice shop this morning to an echo of that's so you from my bargain- loving mates. Isn't the cutwork detail gorgeous? None of us recognised the label, Seraphina, London but after Google Lens-ing it when I got home discovered that it's a luxury online boutique and this blouse currently retails at £235 (I paid £2.99), I can't wait to tell the other ladies!
I have a Cowgirl-chic inspired outfit in mind - it looks good laid out on the bed - let's see how it transpires when I wear it tomorrow!
At festivals, the question we're most asked is Where do you get all your stuff from? Aside from charity shops and online finds, a lot comes from private sellers, clearing out their own - or a loved one's - wardrobe. Its such a priviledge to be asked and you really do get a fascinating insight into other people's lives.
This is the second collection of clothing I've bought from this lady currently sorting out her late mother's home. She was obviously very stylish, her clothes were of fantastic quality and in pristine condition - and how excited I was when I spotted what some of the collection was stored in....only a Past Times carrier bag! I know there's a lot of us who still get a bit misty eyed over the demise of that wonderful shop.
Vintage 1980s high waisted white cotton trousers by Telesport
Two leather belts by Viyella and a 1950s wool fedora.
A handmade 1960s chiffon party dress.
A vintage 1960s watered silk bridemaid dress.
Russell and Bromley leather loafers (their current ones retail at £250)
A raw silk boned cocktail dress from Monsoon's Twilight collection (1980s)
Vintage 1970s Jaeger all-wool kilt
1980s-does-Victoriana Monsoon cocktail dress in poison green taffeta.
1980s Mondi, West Germany strapless maxi with a boned bodice (and pockets!) in 100% cotton.
1980s Phool gold harem pants (with the boutique labels still attached).
1970s Pinco Pallino wool tank top.
1960s nylon full slip by Rosy of Paris.
1980s Frank Usher velvet cocktail top.
1980s Mondi, West Germany linen and cotton blouse (which was worn on a cruise with the strapless maxi dress.)
Thanks for reading, see you soon!
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