Charity chic
charity
Charity chic
Oxfam sport luxe dress
In these tough financial times we have to look for new and cheaper ways to get our fashion fix. A staple on Petersfield’s shopping scene, charity shops look set to provide our fashion answer Oxfam teal shirt and coral skirt
If you’re a charity shop skeptic, fear not! Browsing a charity shop doesn’t have to be a grim task, full of musty-smelling denim and fraying polyester. These treasure troves are full of vintage designer gems just waiting to be snapped up. They are sourcing and selling high-end clothes at a fraction of the price - what’s more it’s all for a good cause! But to ensure you don’t end up looking more granny than Gucci, it is essential you follow a few simple guidelines: Early bird catches the worm Timing is everything when it comes to finding your bargain. Visit early in the week when your shop has the most stock, as people tend to donate at the weekend. Tuesday is the optimum time as staff will have had time to put out new stock and you’ll beat others to the best stuff. Bob Monteath of Bordon Liphook Haslemere Charity says, “Plan ahead don’t leave it until the last minute - if you need clothing for dressing up / fancy dress, try to give us as much notice as possible.” www.lifemags.co.uk
LIP35_p37_charity.indd 37
The Richard Overall Trust Shop
Hidden treasure “Our customers describe the shop as an Aladdin’s Cave of treasure,” Des Lyons of The Richard Overall Trust Shop explains. Be prepared to rummage and enjoy the thrill of hunting out a bargain. You may need to fight to get your fashion gem. Bob continues, “Look for labels – you’d be surprised at how much quality stock you can still find in charity shops.” Friends Get friendly with the shop staff so they can call you when something great comes in. This will also help when it comes to haggling and getting the best prices for your items. Bob says, “If looking for something specific or quirky, always ask as we have lots stored out the back.” Quality not quantity When choosing your charity shop pieces pick your materials with care. Quality fabrics and designer labels, are much more likely to last and enhance your wardrobe. Look for Natural fibres like cotton and wool as these can be washed and worn repeatedly. Always follow washing instructions, if it says dry clean only, do it!
The Richard Overall Trust Shop
Our favourite charity shops… Age UK 01730 260240
Bordon Liphook & Haslemere Charity 01420 477787
Cancer Research UK 01730 231584 Oxfam 01730 260142
Rowans Hospice 01730 260984 Sue Ryder Care 01730 895860 Scope 01730 231345
The Richard Overall Trust Shop 01420 511375 Life in Petersfield
37
26/06/2012 15:22
Charity chic
Oxfam sport luxe dress
In these tough financial times we have to look for new and cheaper ways to get our fashion fix. A staple on Petersfield’s shopping scene, charity shops look set to provide our fashion answer Oxfam teal shirt and coral skirt
If you’re a charity shop skeptic, fear not! Browsing a charity shop doesn’t have to be a grim task, full of musty-smelling denim and fraying polyester. These treasure troves are full of vintage designer gems just waiting to be snapped up. They are sourcing and selling high-end clothes at a fraction of the price - what’s more it’s all for a good cause! But to ensure you don’t end up looking more granny than Gucci, it is essential you follow a few simple guidelines: Early bird catches the worm Timing is everything when it comes to finding your bargain. Visit early in the week when your shop has the most stock, as people tend to donate at the weekend. Tuesday is the optimum time as staff will have had time to put out new stock and you’ll beat others to the best stuff. Bob Monteath of Bordon Liphook Haslemere Charity says, “Plan ahead don’t leave it until the last minute - if you need clothing for dressing up / fancy dress, try to give us as much notice as possible.” www.lifemags.co.uk
LIP35_p37_charity.indd 37
The Richard Overall Trust Shop
Hidden treasure “Our customers describe the shop as an Aladdin’s Cave of treasure,” Des Lyons of The Richard Overall Trust Shop explains. Be prepared to rummage and enjoy the thrill of hunting out a bargain. You may need to fight to get your fashion gem. Bob continues, “Look for labels – you’d be surprised at how much quality stock you can still find in charity shops.” Friends Get friendly with the shop staff so they can call you when something great comes in. This will also help when it comes to haggling and getting the best prices for your items. Bob says, “If looking for something specific or quirky, always ask as we have lots stored out the back.” Quality not quantity When choosing your charity shop pieces pick your materials with care. Quality fabrics and designer labels, are much more likely to last and enhance your wardrobe. Look for Natural fibres like cotton and wool as these can be washed and worn repeatedly. Always follow washing instructions, if it says dry clean only, do it!
The Richard Overall Trust Shop
Our favourite charity shops… Age UK 01730 260240
Bordon Liphook & Haslemere Charity 01420 477787
Cancer Research UK 01730 231584 Oxfam 01730 260142
Rowans Hospice 01730 260984 Sue Ryder Care 01730 895860 Scope 01730 231345
The Richard Overall Trust Shop 01420 511375 Life in Petersfield
37
26/06/2012 15:22
