Op-shopping used to be the domain of hippies and alternative-types, but is now considered a normal and chic way to snap up a bargain. And with the vast array of both funky retro and modern styles on offer, it provides the perfect way for you to express your unique sense of fashion, without breaking the budget.
Now here’s how to make a day out of it:
1. Invite the girls to meet at your place mid-morning on Saturday for a preparatory champagne or mocktail brunch.
2. Get onto the internet and check out the locations of your local op-shops to plan your route.
3. Set a budget, say $50, and the rules: for example, each person must find shoes and at least one major item of clothing to wear out that night.
4. Get shopping! (And don’t forget to stop somewhere fabulous for a coffee darlings).
5. If you’re really game, give the night a theme and turn it into an op-shop costume party!
A fantastic bargain-hunting suburb is Paddington, with these shops all located on
Latrobe Terrace:
St Vincent de Paul
Endo's and
The Paddington Antique Centre.
Other good suburbs include West End and Fortitude Valley, and try
Adelaide Street in the city centre.
Also, don’t forget to check your local ‘trash and treasure’ markets, such as the Fortitude Valley Market in the
Brunswick Street Mall, for bargains too.
Click here to see a picture of the market taken by a bargain-hunter.
Here are some more tips for successful op-shop surfing, from of all places,
Girlfriend Magazine:
Do take some cash with you, some shops don’t have EFTPOS.
Do look at all different types of items, don’t just stick to dresses or accessories, you never know what surprises you might find.
Don’t necessarily try to buy a whole op-shop outfit, keep your existing wardrobe in mind as you shop, and think about mixing and matching.
Don’t be afraid to modify what you’ve bought – if you’ve only paid $5 for it, then whip out the scissors and start chopping! Better yet, take it to a tailor to get a perfect fit – its bound to be cheaper than buying something new.
Do try something outside your normal fashion comfort zone, after all, you are shopping somewhere different.
If you’re feeling a little separation anxiety from leaving your man behind for the day, don’t, because he can certainly join in the fun. Guys can find everything from pre-loved cartoon boxer shorts, to worn-once designer ties. So whether they’re a 'metro' or a 'bloke' they’re sure to find a bargain that floats their boats as well.
