Sonia Rykiel

One of my saddest memories was when I lost a pair of Chanel sunnies in a change room a couple of years back. I must admit, I was known to be the scatter brain in my family. Since youth, I have lost a few beloved jumpers Mom knitted for me, a couple of silk scarves that disappeared from my head, neck and bag, and let’s not start on my jewellery disappearances. I have no idea where these pieces have ended up, in a loving fashionista’s closet, or in an opshop :) And so for years, I abstained from purchasing designer sunglasses because I was bound to lose them, sooner or later. But when I saw these Versace shades at OPSM, I could not resist. They are the perfect shape and colour, etched with heritage but oozes modern sophistication. Pure love at first sight.

You know how much I love op shops, there is always something incredible to be discovered there – like this wool skirt. My high-pitched squeal could not be contained when I spotted this holey wool maxi! A vintage gem, never worn, tag still in place. I tried it as a tube (strapless) dress but the holes got in the way – too much view. So it will serve me as a skirt only. It does restrict my tomboy strides, so I have to walk like I have bound feet.

Versace sunnies (OPSM), Cashmere top, vintage necklace (last seen here), Lasso belt, Manahé skirt, Christian Dior bag (last seen here), Sonia Rykiel shoes (last seen here)

Most of this outfit have come from op shops- my tips for finding unique, quality treats from thrift stores are:

1. Have patience. Don’t visit op shops in a rush. Look at everything. EVERYTHING. You just don’t know what’s hiding behind that stack.
2. Read magazines before you head to the shops. The visuals in your memory will help your selection process with current trends, colours and styles. I am much more fruitful when I’ve flipped through fashion mags.
3. Only buy it if it fits, unless your best friend is a tailor. If it has stains, abstain! Not everything can be removed by Napi-san. If you buy woollens or coats in summer, stock up on cedar balls.
4. Try it on, look hard into the mirror, close your eyes and imagine your wardrobe. Will this piece go with at least 3 things you already own? If not, you’ll more likely to give it to another op-shop than wear it.
5. And lastly, there is a reason why certain things are in opshops. Never forget this! I have been thrifting for nearly 2 decades, learning from past mistakes and this has become my op-shopping philosophy. Do remember that some things end up in opshops for obvious reasons- they no longer fit, they are not loved, they are smelly, their owners are gone, but there are also some pieces there for not-so-obvious reasons: they are missing clasps, buttons, zips, elastic bands, lining, hems, or have faulty components, and even stains in places you’d never check. So pretend you’re a parking inspector, check everything carefully and be brutal.

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