I have been charity shopping in Central London and Europe, the kilo and Car Boot sales and the virtually thrifting online for the past 10 years. I have learnt a bunch of things about buying clothes second hand. How to make sure I don’t just start buying things impulsively and making sure I actually wear the clothes I buy and make sure my money isn’t wasted.
‘Shopping secondhand isn’t a sacrifice, its your ticket to the good life’
Nicole lapin
Your Measurements
What your measurements are in various conversions if you are in the UK the general measurements go up in increments of 2 ranging from size 6-20 or the size XS-XXl but vintage clothes don’t always conform to these sizes and the further back you go the more unique the sizing as back in the day things were more bespoke or the just used measurements rather than sizes. So know your measurements. Get a measuring tape and have the sizes in your notes app.
The Material
One of my favourite things about buying clothes secondhand is the fact that you can have more access to higher quality materials for a more affordable price however when you opt for Natural fibre materials (silk, wool, cotton etc) you should also think about the care the garments need. Does it need to be dry cleaned, does it require any special tools etc. These things are worth thinking about because it can be expensive long term and if not cared for properly it will shorten its lifespan.
Defects
If there are any stains, rips, hole etc. When buying clothes secondhand its a given that it will have wear from its previous owners and if heavily worn it could have issues with it. If you are buying something secondhand and see it has a hole in it, a tough stain a rip you should be honest with yourself as to if you are going to mend it. I am very guilty of this, I’ll buy clothes with the best of intentions and not fix the issue and it’ll find itself to the back of my wardrobe. So think about what it takes to fix the garment and if you want to invest the extra effort.
The Return Policy
Almost all places that sell things second hand have a limited/no return or refund policy for many reasons. Ask the seller whether it’s the charity, thrift or online store what their policy is if they have none make peace with the idea that you will be stuck with the garment and out of pocket or opt to leave it.
The Lifespan
Like I previously mentioned you are buying something that has already been worn. Most times the materials are of a higher quality but inspect the fabric to make sure it still has plenty of wear in it.
Can it be held?
When out and about on the prowl for new items you might see something you weren’t expecting to see and you might not be able to get it there and then it might be something you need to think about, something you want to do research on or you might not have the money. It never hurts to politely ask if it can be held for you the worst they can say is no but if they say yes give them a reasonable timeframe and let them know if you don’t come back by “select date* they can make it available again.
Giving Back
Is there anything I can donate, giveaway or sell. When bringing new things into your house it’s important to also be in the space of giving things away and maintaining that balance. I’m very much trying to implement this in my life and struggling but will get to the point where its on in one out. It’ll encourage you to be taking inventory of your wardrobe and make more informed purchases.
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