The Great British Charity Shop... If you believed some of the blogs you read you'd think visiting them was a total waste of time. In the name of research Jon & I took ourselves off around the chazzas on Saturday to disprove the theories.
"You rarely find vintage and if you do it's ludicrously overpriced or naff old Eighties polyester"....
Oh yeah? This Atlantic of London frock was £5 from the British Heart Foundation, that's around half the price of their usual stock of Top Shop, Karen Millen, Jigsaw & River Island dresses.
100% cotton and not a man-made fibre in sight.
Proper bona fide 1960s Mod couture.....
and a very reasonable £2.49 from Age UK.
"All the designer and posh labels get taken by the volunteers"
Hmmmmmmm......
100% wool jacket in Cancer Research.
Loafers in Age UK.
Hand made John White brogues for £3 in Compton Hospice.
"It's all overpriced, useless tat"
Really? These Faith stack heeled leather ankle boots were £2 from Salvation Army, comfy, cool and something I've been after for ages
This French Connection chartreuse silk vest was 50p from Cancer Research, a perfect injection of colour for a drab English Summer's day.
"Primark is more expensive second-hand than it is bought new from the shop"
Basics acid yellow vest and cute high-waisted dungaree shorts (which I've pimped up by replacing the original buttons with 1960s fabric ones) were 50p and £1 apiece from Cancer Research. I don't shop at Primark but I'm pretty certain the clothes cost more than that PLUS a charity gets to benefit rather than a big corporation with questionable ethics.
"It's cheaper to buy your paperbacks from the supermarket"
Banardos had reduced their books down to 25p each or 5 for a quid. Can Asda beat that?
"There's never any decent craft stuff"
No, of course not, I must be imagining this 4 yard length of paisley printed cotton I bought for 50p (Cancer Research) then.
"The men's clothes are all rubbish"
Yes, here's a Guess shirt (£2.50, Banardos) and Raf Simons Tee shirt (75p, Age UK), complete and utter crap but they make Jon happy.
And if you keep moaning about the state of our UK charity shops I'll have to set Stephen Squirrel on you and he's fat, noisy and he's currently being treated for ringworm so be warned....
 |
| 1970s midi dress worn with vintage Dolcis platforms (£4.99, PDSA), Indian tribal collar and bangles (second-hand or inherited), felt hair clips (handmade by the gorgeous Krista) |
Vix I love this entire post,Never a truer word spoken.They need to rifle through like the rest of us.Looking great as ever hope your well x
ReplyDeleteOh Vix, how I envy you with your Chazza shop finds. All of our chazza shops only hold recent stock from high street brands and are quite expensive. Boo.
ReplyDeleteThat dress is stunning though, I'm looking for something like that at the mo!
Oh and I sent you a sneaky email! :D
xo
Ha! I so thought you were chanelling Krista today, then I saw she made your hairclips.
ReplyDeleteI swear the charity shops in your area are the best in the world though, no-one seems to have the luck you do!
As you know, I do love a charity shop haul myself, and do regularly donate too. It's all about checking them regularly. I love the frock. Xx
ReplyDeleteSo true, totally envious of that paisley fabric.
ReplyDeleteOh Vix you look lovely in that pretty sun dress - I hope the weather stays a bit nice so you can give it an airing.
ReplyDeleteJon did well - that jacket is wonderful, and I love the t-shirt. I think you're right about charity shops - you've got to be prepared to have a really good rummage! xxx
Vix I love the frock and great post.
ReplyDeleteDx
Woo hoo, Vix is venting!
ReplyDeleteGood for you, love! I guess charity shops are hugely variable, between areas but also over time. We have all experienced occasions when prices seem crazily high or the stock is poor, but most of the time, I'd say you can still find good bargains. You seem to find way more vintage than I do, but I do OK, and the only way to score is to persevere. All your recent finds are excellent.
And you're so right about donating - we get the stock we deserve if we don't contribute.
So onto the frock - what a great find! Perfect fit, groovy print, and it obviously makes you happy cos look at your gorgeous smile! Loving the addition of Krista's flowers.
Don't set Stephen Squirrel on me, I have enough fat, noisy cats to deal with! xxxxxxxxxx
Bravo!
ReplyDeleteCharity shopping becomes the ONLY way to purchase clothes once you get the hang of it.
It does take a bit of practice, a bit of trial and error, and time to source the gems, but once you do, seeing rails and shelves filled with the same clothes just looks wrong. I'm not used to seeing double figures on a price tag either, second hand prices are rarely (if ever) more than the 'new' price.
Charity shopping is ethical, fun, adventurous and the only way to look original and unique without breaking the bank.
If you and Jon aren't the best advertisements for charity shops, I don't know who is!
Lucy x
Brilliant post Vix. Everything you say is true, I think people sometimes think that you walk in to a chaz chop and everything will fall at their feet when you do need to have a proper look xx
ReplyDelete^ Annie's right, you have to take the rough with the smooth. There are times when there's a complete drought and nothing turns up, then you find the item(s) that make the wait worthwhile. xxx
ReplyDeleteYou gorgeous thing! Love the hair clips. Very pretty.
ReplyDeleteI've always had a love/hate relationship with charity shops, some absolute gems have been uncovered by also find some of the pricing at times a little mad.
x
'Nough said! Can't think of a THING to add! Except that you are just plain gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteJust the other week I found a vintage biba dress for £1, a jaeger silk blouse for £1.25! Yet today I found nothing, yes it's hit and miss but most of the time it's amazing! You always find amazing things :) xx
ReplyDeletei couldn't have said it better. i hear all the same complaints and this one too. they never have my size? really? omg. anyway, i LOVE that men's jacket. one day maybe you'll try that on with a pair of jeans and belt the jacket. omg, you'd rock that look too vix.
ReplyDeleteTo be fair, there is crazy variation in charity shop pricing accross the UK. Even when I first arrived in edinburgh in 1999, you'd have strugled to get anything for £1, and now there's very little that's less than £6 (and that's your primark/supermarket brands stuff). And it's not unusual for things in the vintage section of charity shops to be more expensive than in actual vintage shops.
ReplyDeletelove the amazing dres, but im in love with the bracelet and neklace!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is an amazing site!!!
Hugs
xox
AnieB
http://lahabitaciondelaspequenascosas.blogspot.com.es/
Nuff said! I do agree but I also agree with France about the pricing differences across the UK. Here in Winchester it can be a bit more pricey....you will never see shoes £1.00 because the assumption is everyone who lives here is loaded.
ReplyDeleteCardiff or Newport or even down the road in Southampton it's more what you'd think of as chazza shop pricing which means I can get an armful of stuff instead of a few bits for my wonga.
Having said that I have nabbed a few stunning bargains of late...no complaints from me! xxxxxx
My mom is a volunteer in her local charity shop... she does get some perks, like first pick of the goodies :-) But there's always loads to go round for customers too! Think it's down to the area, the catchment of donors and the way the manager runs the shop too...
ReplyDeleteLovely finds and you look gorgeous as ever :-)
Completely agree! All my local chazzer shops are very reasonably priced - the nearest hospice shop has a permanent 5 paperbacks for £1 offer, and many of the clothing is just £1 an item or less. Can't say fairer than that! I think they key is to keep going in, they get donations EVERY day so you will find a gem eventually :) x
ReplyDeleteRight on sister! You look friggen fabulous and ready to shoot down those nasty rumours about op-shops! I haven't been into one in a week or so - I must rectify this situation ASAP! xxx
ReplyDeleteYour dress in this post is gorgeous Vix. I whole heartedly agree with many of the points you make here although I think charity shops in your neck of the woods are cheaper than ours, I rarely find anything decent for less than a fiver and any Primark clothes stocked are normally more or less at the same price as you could buy them for in the shop itself!! It does amuse me though as my colleagues and friends are always shocked when they learn that at least one item I'll be wearing on any given day will be from a charity shop or jumble sale!
ReplyDeleteL x
P.S. Can I have your address, I have a couple of tops I think you might like?
Fab finds as always! I love rooting for bargains in charity shops - and yes there are days when you come back empty-handed, but it makes the days you do find items extra special :)
ReplyDeleteLoved this post. Im with you on the chairty shops ok yes there are some expensive ones and some in Taunton now have vintage and retro rails and they are charging a lot and i have to say that i don't go into these now as it does drive me batty. But im the same i go further a field where the prices are reasonable and you can still find good vintage items. I adore your dress its stunning and you look gorgeous in it, love your makeup to today the colours contrast with the dress so beautifully. Great post and great finds lovely ;-)) dee xxx
ReplyDeletehehehe! Though it has to be said your charity shops are a bit cheaper, though not much - I definitely agree. Amongst all the 90s Next tops there are some real gems! Your dress is stunning and I'm rather jealous I didn't spot those Russell and Bromley shoes last week! Only problem here is everyone seems to have small feet so all the shoes I find are too small! Also - another tip is to go often! You can't say you never find anything when you pop in once a month.
ReplyDeleteSadly it totally depends on where you are in the UK - I never find bargains like yours in London and I am a regular charity shopper! In particular, some of the charity shops in my posh suburb have outrageous prices, and it is because of my love of a bargain that I don't even go into them anymore. If that Jean Muir had been in my local you can bet they would have been asking £30 at the very least :(
ReplyDeletebtw The Stephen S lookalike got reserved the day before he was due to come! So we have a tabby instead now, currently hiding from grumpy Elsa under the bed x
I'm on of the charity shop moaners, I have to confess... partly because Leamington is stuffed with charity shops and they're mainly over-priced and colour coded. That being said, I can't remember the last time I bought a new book - all of mine come second hand from charity shops! Louise is right above though when she says it's all about checking them frequently because there are fabulous finds to be had - as you prove in this post! You look really stunning in that dress, by the way :)
ReplyDeleteYour charity shop finds are always amazing and the frock you are wearing with the felt hairclips is stunning!!
ReplyDeleteI love the whole outfit and your chazzas karma theory is so wise!!!
I think that who wrote that you can't find good stuff in the U.K. totally don't own any talent,I'm sure that the only way to find good stuff is the love and the patience to discover treasures amongst a lot of rubbish and people doesn't get it and often gives up before starting!
Lots of love xxxxxxxxxxxx
Fabulous finds and good prices too, I have to say we do have a a few charity shops in Norwich that think that are Harrods. However, all good things come to those who wait and charity shops take dedication.
ReplyDeleteYou never know what you'll find and that's all part of the fun. As for 80s polyester, gosh that describes a fair chunk of my wardrobe - and I use it to create lots of 50s and 40s looks, it's tat to some but to me it's affordable vintage. x
Hi my dear-hear hear, you really are spot on and it is true that if you're prepared to rummage and shop around different local towns you will definitely find a bargain of some kind!! Fab finds from you and Jon yet again! xxx
ReplyDeleteOh yes!! So true!
ReplyDeletelol Let 'them' think that about charity shops - all the more swag for those who know the truth lol oh dear - 'they' really do need to piss off back to Primark, pronto ....
ReplyDeleteCan I also add - don't disrespect the charity shop ladies - they have to open bags of sometimes unmentionable dross (and worse). Chazzing karma really does need to be cultivated and yes - it does pay to be a regular. And sign up to Gift Aid too.
Lovely article Vix - those brogues are magnificent. Chazzing is a skill with its own etiquette :)
Firstly I totally love charity shops I love that feeling you get when you go in them and realise that you may get a brilliant bargain.
ReplyDeleteSecondly I am so so jealous I so want those Faith boots so if you ever tire of them I know of a good home that would happily welcome them ha ha. I don't think you would part with them they are gorgeous.
Thirdly, that dress is just so pretty and looks fab on you.
xx
Those statements are more likely true here in the US. I'd have to agree with most of them. It's very hard to find anything special in thrift stores here. It's all combed over first and taken to higher end resell shops who charge way too much. Many of my local consignment shops or thrift stores charge more for things that are new at lower end markets too. I noticed this weekend that even my local Senior Center thrift shop is charging 20.00 for a necklace. Too much! Especially for something that was donated.
ReplyDeleteI think I need to move to another country. ;)
Wow, you got so many great things! I love those high-waisted shirts and how you replaced the buttons!! You look so pretty in that dress & the necklace is just amazing!! I am following you now!!
ReplyDelete:)
Allison
afashionfiles.blogspot.com
Oh my god- you are seriously the cutest. Loving all the vintage inspiration from your blog
ReplyDeletenew follower!
Love from NYC,
www.nicolealyse.com
Hi Vix, I totally agree with everything you point out in this post! Being a 'curvy' girly (lol)it can be a bit more difficult to find vintage, but I love 'Monsoon' and 'Boden' clothes and almost every piece I own is from a charity shop or ebay. I too love customising and will buy something in a small size just to use the material. Your dress and boots ar gorgeous!! xx
ReplyDeleteI havent been to the charity shops in a while, but you have inspired me to go and have a look (maybe even tomorrow lol). I seem to think that the prices are higher here, but before I say that as fact I will check it out. Being a plus size does make it more difficult though, I guess the same applies to people below a size 10, there are probably fewer items to chose from.
ReplyDeleteI will keep you posted lol.
You look amazing as always btw. You must be blessed with good skin genes, you always look so fresh and glowing.
V
xxx
Haha, I love this post! People obviously aren't trying hard enough or are going to the wrong places! I don't always get anything from the ones in Bolton, which is why we travel else where and manage to find loads! Love all your buys, especially the new dress and amazing fabric! XO.
ReplyDeleteI have learned A) to be discerning and B) to just keep looking.
ReplyDeleteThe charity shops in Glastonbury aren't all that good, but we went to Shepton today and I got the most beautiful tie dyed table cloth and 6 matching napkins for £4.49.
Great informative article. I unearthed a brand new white Boden linen shirt and a Hobbs skirt from my local charity shops.
ReplyDeleteI have got a lot better at charity shopping over the past two years, I think practice has helped!
ReplyDeleteThe cheapest I've ever got any item of clothing was £1.75. That was half priced. There is rarely anything decent in my size. I often see good stuff but it is too small for me.
I do think geography has a lot to do with it though. If I travel to more affluent towns, the quality of clothes is much better.
Caroline
xxx
Take that! You scored tons of really fabulous stuff! The leather boots are sublime and those high waisted shorts will look sweet on you! Jon even got some really killer stuff. All of this for less than the price of lunch for one. Amazing!!!! This dress is giving me cavitites you look amazing in blue and I love the pink green and orange accents.
ReplyDeleteLook at your lil jungle kitty...poor baby with ringworms. The barrettes look perfect with this dress me dear! SKYPE date soon I promise!!! I have a new idea for when we visit:) I can't wait to share!!!
XXOO
Krista
Stephen Squirrel is quite the handsome fellow!! Love the outfit--
ReplyDeleteAs someone who dresses almost exclusively from thrifts--you have to be willing to go often, HUNT, and be willing to see the possibilities. Too many people want a fast fix at the mall.
Tamera
Love this post! I think half the battle is finding the right charity shops. There's a salvation army shop in the next town from us, and because it's a rich town the prices they charge in that particularly store is insane! Whereas another, and even large salvation store although it's a bit of a drive away from us - their prices are incredible. I managed to grab a new spice rack for $2 and Calvin Klein shorts for the same price. It's like any kind of shopping - you just have to shop and look around!
ReplyDeleteLove it! This has really made me chuckle. I love a bit of chazza. Paperbacks are a bit of an obsession. Lately I've picked up some stuff with labels still on them. Not too much luck down Sarf with the vintage though :(.
ReplyDeleteBB xx
Brilliant!! Charity shop buying is all subjective anyway. One man's poison is another man's meat as they say! I love how much gorgeous stuff I find in there!!! I am so so so envious of that midi-dress, it is so so so pretty!
ReplyDelete(Have to say though- sadly there is not that much vintage stuff in my local charity shops sadly, but there's still lovely stuff!)
Here frickin here to charity shops shizz!!!!! :) !!! Those shorts are literally to die for! I am totally going down the charity shops tomorrow :) you have inspired me majorly ^_^ xxx
ReplyDeleteThat's right amor!
ReplyDeleteWe have visit charity shops more often and give back our unwanted goods.
lately I have not found anything interesting rummage more.
I prefer boot sale and jumble sales though.
You look scrumptious in your blue frock and cute hairclips.
~Besotes
Wow wow wow amazing finds, brands and purchases.
ReplyDeleteI almost forget what it's like to buy clothing brand new. Purchase jeans for $100 a pair? Uhmmm NO THANK YOU. *HAHA*
I love this post - everything is fantastic and you showed them! If i had to pick just 2 things, it would be the French Connection Top and the wool mens jacket. You make it all look so easy!!!! x
ReplyDeleteFabby dress Vix and great fabric. And those prices cannot be beat!
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you say, even though most times I can't find stuff as cheap around here. They do have the odd reduction but it's not always. Another thing that annoys me around here is that you never ever find anything vintage as it seems that the shops here are trying to compete with high street, which is a shame. Apart from that, I do find some decent stuff every now and then. I'll post this weekend's finds some time soon :)
ReplyDeletedear lady, I'm admiring your lovely finds (that paisley fabric is gorgeous!), and also your wise words!, because you've invested some time and talent on looking into second-hand sales, so now you know how to make the most of them!
ReplyDeleteAnd your dress is fabulous!
besos
That's me, guilty as charged!! I'm one of the moaners about charity shops and their dodgy and / or overpriced stock at the moment.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I'm taking a leaf out of your book and am off to try the chazzas of Leigh on Sea tomorrow. As it's also my birthday, I'm hoping the charity shop karma will be good to me.
As always, Vix, your finds (and the prices you pay) are amazing.
I agree that you totally have to put the leg-work in with chazzing, perhaps the nay-sayers aren't looking hard enough. Unfortunately I have a number of the pricier shops near me, nothing like your fantastic bargains! It also helps to trust your instincts - if it's not an instantly recognisable label and the fabric and style seem right for the era, then it's highly likely you've got the real deal. Plus it's more about liking the item, vintage or not.
ReplyDeleteYou're looking great as always and I bet Jon will look sharp in those finds.
such a great post Vix! Jon's finds (and yours too!) are fabulous! I think the thing with chazzers is that you have to be prepared to dig, I always find things but it's not instantaneous. Plus if one hasn't got much treasure in, set sail for another! Infinitely more fun than dashing from toppers to zara to h&m where all the clothes are the same but laid out in a different manner!
ReplyDeleteI love buying secondhand books too-they smell so much better than supermarket ones!
Much love xxxxxxxxxxx
You are like the charity shop queen! So in love with the Mod coat! X
ReplyDeletemissmilliemae.blogspot.com
Raaaa just wrote a great big long post an my Internet failed!
ReplyDeleteBasically I said that I live finding nice pieces in charity shops, whether it's vintage or designer or just bog standard doesn't matter that much to me, as long as I like it and I've made a contribution then that's all that matters!
And on another note I noticed one of your books had Carcassonne in the title - what's that one about - I've been there, fab little place and so I'm intrigued :)
Sal xXx
Awesome finds! Cant believe someone said it was cheaper to buy books in the supermarket, I buy all mine second hand, never more than 50p each! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous post! I despise the negative comments I hear made about charity shops, and I love how you dispelled typical comments one by one.
ReplyDeleteAlso, you look marvelous!
xo, A.
Excellent expose of the myths about thrift shopping. The dress looks great on you...and you have just about converted me to false eyelashes!
ReplyDeleteThis post gives me hopes about thrifting. Every so often I get dejected and give up but I honestly do think that many of the thrift stores in my area are waaaay over picked by hipster girls and art students, so by the time I get there, well it really is just a bunch of polyester shirts and church lady hats. I like this idea of an online guide though. I'll have to see if there's one for New York.
ReplyDeleteAlso I love the dress you're wearing in these pics--one of your best finds yet and it fits you perfectly.
Vix i agree with you!
ReplyDeleteI found my best items thrifting, does not come close to retail
You my vintage queen in Pinterest!
Ariane xxx
You know how to bust a myth, and I could go for those leather ankle boots. Very pretty dress covered with festive color, which you make shine.
ReplyDeleteHaha Stephen. Quite the character! Great post and excellent finds, especially that mod gentleman's blazer!
ReplyDeleteLoulou
That dress looks so fantastic on you...the cut, the colour, the pattern. I love it! I do love the handmade brogues too. I think thrifting takes some perseverance, but that usually pays off with unexpected treasures. I had a dream about you the other night, that you were actually an Aussie & you came to stay at my holiday unit. It was a fun dream & you looked gorgeous in it! I hope I don't sound like a stalker! Xx
ReplyDeletelove love love your blue dress. too cute.
ReplyDeleteI am also a HUGE fan of the bargain paperback. in fact, i refuse to buy brand new books. I'm glad i stumbled across your blog!
Ahhhh! We had ringworm here too!
ReplyDeleteWell done, great speech and big thumbs up to you. Vintage Vixen has spoken and we don't want to hear another negative word on the art of op shopping. I agree with donating, I am a consistent donator to Habitat for Humanity and they all know me well. I too believe in Karma ♥ PS: you look gorgeous and I hope your cat gets better soon.
ReplyDeleteNot a truer words been said Vix. It's like a little treasure hunt when you venture into a charity shop and some times you can unearth a real gem. I also think prices vary in area to area, so if you think it's too expense look in another area. The hunt for the goodies is half the fun.
ReplyDeleteX x
Oh Yay Vix this post is just perfect!!!!!! I am a true believer in putting a vintage request out to the universe and the op-shop fairies will send it to you. But patience is the key.
ReplyDeleteI think lots of people mourn the days when op-shopping and so called vintage hunting was just a few of us. Then the main stream found it and that changed everything.
Today I found a silk velvet 1920's cape for $6.00 at an op-shop. Yip you just need your vintage eyes on!!!!!
I love what you found!!! Jon is going to look very handsome in the jacket. You look so pretty in the summer dress.
Sending squirrel hug(no ringworm) love v
Lovely frock and boots! I think op-shopping, thrifting or charity shopping all take time and people often want something now! I think half the fun of it is the chase:)
ReplyDeletePoint well and truely proved! The treasures are out there, they just need to looked for, that's why I love charity shop shopping! Your dress is stunning! and your kitty is a cutie, black and white kitties rule ;) x
ReplyDeleteThis made me laugh Vix. I've heard all those and more. I just think, it's their loss if they don't realise how great charity shopping/op shopping is. You found some fabulous stuff. I love that dress.
ReplyDeleteRight, that's it. I'm off on the hunting on Saturday!!
ReplyDeleteLove this post! It really makes me want to get down the Chairty Shops, which I suppose is the aim so thank you very much =)
ReplyDeletexx
Yup, totally agree. Charity shops are like any shop: you have to go to the ones you know are good and have a look round. Some are upmarket, some cheap... TBH I use both (posh one in Chiswick for £100 shoes (new) down to £20... rough old one in West Ealing for 20p books). If you go to the wrong one for what you're looking for it won't work... but if you use your noggin and rummage it's bargainious!
ReplyDeleteThat dress is so lovely, the print is gorgeous and the little belt detail is cute too! I am so glad you prove everybody wrong with their ranting about charity shops, because quite frankly you are the queen of charity shops and of course there are bargains to be found, it just requires patience. Hope Stephen Squirrel is feeling better soon xxx
ReplyDelete"Popular house buying website Find a Property was down for 10 hours yesterday, as a 'dramatic surge' of clicks for properties in Walsall crashed the servers and brought the site to a halt. Find a property.com have apologised, and are bemused as to where this sudden interest could have come from..."
ReplyDeletexxx
Its true, treasures can be unearthed in the charity/ thrift shops -- even around here where the market has been tapped out for at least 20 years! But one thing must be said, I think pricing is relative to the area. For example; in NYC the prices are outrageous! You'll find something donated from Target with the original $1 price tag on, and its marked $2.99, bananas! I'm a frequent donator, and may even be getting a job at a local thrift so I can help them price accordingly. I do understand the they need to get as much as they can to pay for overhead, but just think if they priced more realistically they would sell more, have quicker turnaround, and probably make more money, leaving very happy customers! You're luckily, it seems your area doesn't go mad with pricing... maybe I should visit next time in the UK -- with any empty suitcase! XXX Suzanne
ReplyDeleteShow them how it's done! I think a bit of it is sour grapes, not finding things in the right size or finding things that might need some TLC when they want gems not diamonds in the rough. Love the dress and the dressing down of those whiners!
ReplyDeleteI have just one thing to say: I HAVE to visit more charity shops!
ReplyDeleteThose are absolute steals, Vix, and you look gorgeous! Hope Jon picks up and enjoys 'The House of Silk' sometime xxx
You're the charity queen to me, Vix! I have to admit that the new habit of many of the charity shops here in the UK to label things as 'designer' turns me off, but I still love buying 2nd hand, and often find great things. Personally I find the US is paradise for 2nd hand shopping (or thrifting, as they say there). xxx
ReplyDeleteWell said Vix, and you found some great pieces to prove it can be done.
ReplyDeleteLoving that cheeky smile of your's!
You tell 'em Vix! What great finds to prove the doubters wrong on every count - that colourful polka dot sundress is adorable and the Jean Muir is quite a find!
ReplyDeleteI never argue with people when they tell how crappy the op sips are here - it means more for me!!
ReplyDeleteWhat fabulous finds - and OMG you look fabulous in that great frock - I ADORE the pattern, and those hair clips are fantastic! You have the most BEAUTIFUL, contagious smile! Love you more than bargains! Sarah xxx
Brilliant post, Vix, as only you could do it.
ReplyDeleteXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Thank you for the inspiring post. I find that it takes persistence! I visit my local (in the U.S.) charity shop 3-4 times a week. Sometimes, I find treasures, sometimes I find nothing. Plus it takes looking in every section. I've found stunning vintage men's jackets in the women's section and great vintage summer dresses in the nightwear section. You have to be a dedicated shopper, not one who spends their whole time chatting on their cell phone while shopping (grrr, they are always in my way).
ReplyDeleteAmazing post! I also always go charity shopping when I travel, no matter where I try to find places to snag a few items. You are the Queen! -xx hope your'e doing well dear!
ReplyDeleteThis was a great post.....I try & explain this to my friends & your Q&A was totally right! I agree with you about the Karma & have been brought up by some serious Salvation Army supporters so it is a good thing to donate quality items in return.
ReplyDeleteOh, Vix, I do have to say I do agree with all the bad statements, as I have found them to be, on the whole, true. HOWEVER, I have also found wonderful, marvellous stuff in charity shops. I do know that you have to go often, and be prepared to perhaps modify what you've found. You really do have some of the most incredible charity shops in your area. Most shops, cannot touch the prices that you find. We have 18 charity shops in town, but not often will you find anything as cheap as what you've found. Some in particular are more expensive than I think warrents it. (If you ever do go in Primark, I think you will be shocked to see how cheap things are.) Not your taste, I wouldn't imagine, but still, MEGA CHEAP.
ReplyDeleteThere validity in both sides of the coin, but at least with charity shops you are doing good, and you can get something unusual. So, long live charity shops!!
Much love,
Rosemary www.foreveronthecatwalkoflife.com
Oh lovely, lovely Vix ... you are beautiful. This is such an amazing post and I absolutely love to slobber all over your oppy finds. I NEVER buy books new ... all second-hand - books are very expensive here and I'm just not willing pay big moolah for something I can get in the library or op shops. You look amazing in your new frock and all your gorgeous tribal jewellery and Krista's incredible clips! So often I walk away empty-handed but it really doesn't bother me - I just know there's some wonderful surprise just around the corner. xoxoxox
ReplyDeleteWow your dress looks great,you always find such amazing thing's :)
ReplyDeleteHi Vix, really like your blog. This post is great, made me chuckle. I also like your boots. I had a pair like it in the early 90s - original 70s suede, thigh platform boots that I got from a period clothing shop in my hometown.
ReplyDeleteGlynis
www.librariangirl.co.uk
This is a great post, and both sides of the argument have a point. If you only visit the thrift stores once in a while, and don't have patience, and an open mind, then it's likely you won't find anything good, but if you go often, spend some time looking, and are a creative dresser, you can find some very cool stuff. It all depends on what your expectations are. You and Jon found some wonderful things--I am drooling over the leather boots!
ReplyDeletehttp://tinyurl.com/6p7b8lg
ReplyDelete:-)
Hey, i just happened to be browsing the new in section of selfridges this morning and came across a 'Tiger of Sweden' blazer, made of wool just like the one you found. it was an astonishing £350 and it looks considerably lighter than the one in your picture! that's a 99.3% discount if maths has been my friend for once. that is indeed a bargain!
ReplyDeleteAshley x
No good charity shops here, but i make sure i make up at the road-side cheap stalls!
ReplyDeleteYou look so pretty here Vix, with those cute clips and your big smile!:)
Love,
Shubhi's Revels!