For something different today, I’ve compiled a list of my top 10 golden rules for successful op-shopping.
Anyone who knows me well will know that I’m an avid op-shopper. In case you’re wondering, that’s a nice way of saying I’m totally and completely, head over heels, obsessed with op shopping.
But there’s a lot of mistakes you can make when op-shopping. (Trust me, I’ve made them.)
So, if you’re anything like me and you simply just love hunting down those coveted pieces of clothing, here’s my top 10 golden rules for scoring (and loving) those one of a kind fashion pieces.
1. Pass on anything you wouldn’t consider buying at retail price
Read that again. You know the scenario. You’re at the op shop and you find a nice piece. It’s in good condition and by a brand you like. The price is good, it fits well. But should you buy it?
Well, yes, but only if it’s something you would buy at retail cost. In other words, you need to like the item enough that you would pay retail price for it. If you don’t, you’ll likely end up donating it again when you do your next spring clean, and your closet will end up looking like this:
2. Look for classic, timeless pieces that are well made
Classic pieces that are well made and constructed from quality fabrics will be the backbone of your wardrobe. And best of all, you can wear them without worrying if they are dated. Timeless pieces don’t date — simple as that. Look for solid coloured items in flattering styles. These make perfect wardrobe additions.
3. Avoid cheap fabrics and fast fashion
It can be so tempting to want to try out new trends when op-shopping. I mean, with the low pricing it can seem like the perfect time to experiment with different styles that you wouldn’t usually reach for. But trendy clothing often means dealing with cheap fabrics and fast fashion, which is always a big ‘no’ in my book. Remember: these clothes were probably donated for exactly the same reason.
4. Ask yourself: do I actually need this?
Do an inventory of your wardrobe before you head out. What gaps do you have in your closet? Is there something you need to match?
Try to think of op shopping the same way you think of regular clothes shopping. Make a list and stick to it. Figure out what you actually need and try to find the wardrobe pieces that match up with the gaps in your closet. And if you don’t need it? Leave it for someone else to discover.
5. Try on anything you find that is vintage
Spoiler alert: vintage sizing is considerably smaller than modern day sizing. Pesky zips are even more annoying when they don’t zip up and elastic waistbands will only stretch so far.
Consider the fabric too, as lots of vintage dresses are made of not-very-nice polyester that has very little stretch to it.
6. Don’t get sucked in by the price
But it’s only $5! Yes, true, but all those $5 items add up and before you know it you’ve spent $50 on mediocre clothing you don’t even love. Plus, the last thing you need is to accumulate things that don’t serve a purpose for you.
7. Assess the clothing item’s comfort level
You know those comfy pieces you just wear to death? The ones that are cozy and comfy and tick all the boxes? Yes, those are the ones you need. Because these are the pieces you’ll wear the most.
It’s really quite simple: comfortable clothing gets more wear than uncomfortable clothing. Cost per wear is a real thing. And comfort tends to trump other factors more often than not.
8. If it’s dry clean only, think long and hard about it
Let’s face it — dry cleaning is expensive. Add to that the annoyance of having another chore on your list and it quickly turns into a game of “Is it really worth it?”
Sometimes it may be, but more often it’s not. So make sure you check those inside care labels before you purchase anything. But remember: even if a label states dry cleaning only, but you are confident you could hand wash it without any issues, consider that too.
9. Take a good whiff of the piece you’re considering buying
This may seem like a funny piece of advice, but trust me, it’s an important one. Especially when it comes to thick knit jumpers, smells can get tangled in the threads and can often be very hard to remove. Choose wisely, and if something has a really bad smell, pass on it, because there’s a strong chance you will never be able to wear it comfortably.
10. Keep it fun
Hunting and gathering can be exhausting. And when you don’t find those sought after treasures it can seem like a waste of time. So take your time and treat the experience like an enjoyable hobby. Remove any pressure and just enjoy yourself. It’s meant to be fun, after all!
