I’m a big fan of op shopping and have found some wonderful treasures over the years.
Mostly I check out the clothing, but I’ve also brought home furniture, Tupperware, jigsaws, novels, DVDs, CDs, and my favourite blue/green glassware.
However, when it comes to fashion, I have noticed that there are certain items that you won’t find at the op shop. Or if you do, you are very, very lucky!
What Op Shopping is Great For
In my experience, op shops are a great source of classic items, such as black skirts; tops; jackets, coats and cardigans.
I’ve also bought some great scarves, and had some awesome footwear finds too. A lot of folk grimace at the thought of wearing secondhand shoes – even if they do look new – but a cheap pair of insoles can take care of the “ick” factor if it really bothers you.
More than once I’ve worn a special frock to a wedding or other formal occasion – and if you don’t tell anybody it’s from the op shop, they are none the wiser!
However there are some things that you won’t find at the op shop.
What You Won’t Find at the Op Shop
If you are looking for the latest trends or styles, you are likely to be disappointed – you just won’t find those show pony pieces that will give your wardrobe this season’s “look”.
For example – I have yet to find a kimono jacket when op shopping. It’s just a matter of time before they do start appearing in an op shop near you, but by then they will probably look very much “last season” or even “several seasons ago”.
Nor have I seen printed pants, which I find quite surprising as they have been extremely popular for a couple of years at least.
If I saw a crochet sleeveless vest, or a soft trench, I would snap them up – but again, these are “now” pieces that are yet to filter their way through to the op shops.
I’m not saying it’s impossible – just that you are very, very, lucky if you do find current fashion items while op shopping!
What’s the most recent treasure you’ve brought home from the op shop?
Linking up with Essentially Jess for IBOT.