The ultimate statement in sustainable style, buying pre-loved, second-hand and vintage clothing has never been more attractive.
Whether it’s the thrill of the hunt or to save a bit of money, shopping at op shops, specialty vintage stores and online for pre-worn designer bargains is the perfect way to indulge in a little retail therapy when the mood calls.
However, you may be leery of purchasing someone else’s castoffs, and rightfully so as some pieces may have excessive wear and tear. Buying second hand can be an adventure, so it’s necessary to be patient, especially if you are looking for a particular item. Having a clear goal in mind helps you not get overwhelmed with the options offered and makes the experience more enjoyable, and unless you’re just browsing, it’s important to remember that it may take a few trips to find exactly what you want in your size.
Take your time
Second-hand style experts often say that you should prepare to spend a bit more time when you’re shopping for pre-worn gems, including hitting the sales racks and even the men’s section for oversized pieces like a great shirt or boxy jacket. Chances are, there are gems hidden around most second-hand stores, you just need the patience to look through the racks to get to what you want.
This can be a little harder when you’re shopping for pre-worn styles online, so make sure you only go to trusted websites where you can exchange or refund if you’re not happy with your purchase.
Check before you buy
Experts also recommend that you scrutinise the condition of any potential buys carefully, as you don’t want to just inherit someone else’s tat. The clothing you reach for should be in tip-top condition, with rips, tears, holes and stains being the obvious things to look out for. You want to check over every part of the clothing well, even the inside where there can often be hidden damage such as ripped lining. Other places to check are the base of buttons and the armpit area, both of which can tear easily. Also, remember to check specific locations for staining and pills, which are those tiny balls of lint that collect on knitted items.
Definitely check any white shirts for armpit and neck stains and woollens for pilling under the arms or elsewhere. Specialty fabric shavers are inexpensive and can revive lint-laden pieces in a hurry, but tread carefully if you’re dealing with yarns like lightweight merino and cashmere.
Also, check stretchy pieces, like activewear and denim, to ensure no rippling, which occurs when an item of clothing has really been thrashed a little too hard in the washing machine.
Keep an eye out for brand names
Certain labels inside of clothing bear weight, especially when purchasing things second hand. Some fast-fashion brands design on-trend pieces to only last a season or two, whereas others produce clothing to stand the test of time. Well-known names – New Zealand and international – help ensure quality, so look for labels that you already know and have had a good experience with.
If you’re one of the lucky ones, you’ll be in a position to splurge on a brand new designer piece, but finding one at a resale shop is much more cost-effective and can be super satisfying. Go with labels you trust and would like to include in your wardrobe – no one will ever know that your brand name pieces are thrifted finds.
Find a great alteration shop you trust
If you love buying second hand, your local alteration shop will be a place you feel right at home. Have items nipped and tucked to exactly your body shape and, once you trust them, try getting a bit creative with the tailoring. For example, you can buy a super oversized denim jacket and have the back taken in dramatically to create shape, or change an oversized men's shirt into a dress. The possibilities really are endless!
Tatty’s
161 Ponsonby Road
Established in 2006 by the wonderful Aimee Egdell, Tatty's is a female-run, owner-operated consignment fashion business that is so popular it has grown to several branches (check out Little Tatty’s at 78 Ponsonby Road and Tatty’s High Street at 41 High Street in the CBD). Having grown up in the second-hand fashion industry, Aimee's focus has always been to provide an alternative mode of consumption with sustainability and individuality at its core, and with over 10,000 items instore and online, Tatty's has a curated range to interest all. www.tattys.co.nz
Sempre
299 Ponsonby Road
Sempre showcases a carefully selected, unique and ever-changing collection of beautiful designer label clothing, shoes and accessories. Attentive fashion-styling advice is also readily on hand for a truly intimate and personal boutique experience, and they have a great selection of international buys. www.sempre-ponsonby.co.nz
Search and Destroy
80 Ponsonby Road
Previously called The Cross Street Market, Search and Destroy is known for its great vintage denim and rock’n’roll vibe, as well as French, Japanese and New Zealand workwear, vintage homewares and pottery. www.searchanddestroy.co.nz
Moral Fibre
63 Ponsonby Road
Moral Fibre is another hugely popular pre-loved store, and known for its well curated collection of vintage and designer recycled pieces. As well as some great luxury brands, at Moral Fibre you’ll find upcycled pieces that have been totally transformed by co-owner Lisette Mayson. www.moralfibre.co.nz
Scottie’s Recycle
2 Blake Street
The pre-loved arm of the beautifully curated designer store of the same name, Scottie’s Recycle is renowned for its quality pieces from names like Chanel, Prada and Marni. You can rest assured that everything is in impeccable condition, with many pieces barely worn and just a couple of seasons old. www.scottiesboutique.co.nz
Encore Designer Fashion Recycle
305 Ponsonby Road
Surely a Ponsonby icon, Encore Designer Recycle has been helping the planet by recycling for over 40 years and they definitely know their stuff! A high percentage of their business is from repeat customers and referrals, and their store boasts one of the best selections of new and used fashion in New Zealand. www.fashion-recycle.co.nz
Boutique for SPCA
27 Ponsonby Road
With some seriously great window displays and an eye for designer pieces, the Boutique for SPCA has become a go-to for many pre-loved shoppers. And as well as helping the planet by contributing to a more circular society, shopping at Boutique for SPCA stores also contributes to the wellbeing of animals throughout New Zealand. www.spca.nz
(HELENE RAVLICH)