Whether we like it or not, the clothes that we wear every day have the potential to say an awful lot about ourselves. I have always been one to embrace this and so when I had a little clear out a couple of weeks ago, I couldn't help but think that my clothes no longer represented the person that I am today: it was time for change. More specifically, it was time for a change that would be both sustainable for the planet and for my pocket. That brings me to today's post: a compilation of my treasure hunt finds. Above all, I hope this post busts a few old myths about second-hand shopping and encourages you to give it a go if you haven't already - I promise you won't be disappointed! As always, leave me any thoughts in the comments below.
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Oh Polly Belted High Waisted Trousers - £5, Depop.
Originally £35.
Let's begin with the piece that I bought first: a pair of bright pink, high-waisted trousers originally from Oh Polly. To be perfectly honest, these trousers were not on my radar until I bought an identical pair in beige and loved them so much that I simply had to have another pair in a different colour - and what better way to live your Barbie fantasy than in a pair of bright pink trousers, am I right? What I love about these trousers is that they can both work well in the summer paired with a patterned cami top (Ted Baker is an excellent port of call for these) and in the spring/autumn paired with a short-sleeved top and blazer. When we also take into account the price tag, what isn't there to love?
Zara Faux-Leather Pleated Skirt - £9, Depop.
Originally £25.99.
This faux-leather number from Zara was a staple in the blogger's wardrobe last year and continues to sell at rocket speed as the faux-leather trend takes on new heights this season. Luckily, my eagle-eyed self had been keeping a close tab on any new skirts as such and was able to grab a bargain. Unfortunately, this skirt was just a tad too big for me and I was not the greatest fan of the chrome detailing. In spite of that, I managed to order the beige-pink version in a smaller size only 4 hours later.
Not only was the skirt flattering on my body shape due to the pleated detailing, but it also had a much needed feminine touch to a trend that can otherwise feel quite masculine. As if that wasn't enough, it's also a highly versatile piece which makes it perfect for a student-to-be in London with limited storage space.
Not only was the skirt flattering on my body shape due to the pleated detailing, but it also had a much needed feminine touch to a trend that can otherwise feel quite masculine. As if that wasn't enough, it's also a highly versatile piece which makes it perfect for a student-to-be in London with limited storage space.
Topshop Black Blazer - £6, Depop.
Original Price Likely Around £40.
Blazers have easily become a wardrobe staple of mine in recent years. To put the matter frankly, I have not found any other item of outerwear that is quite as versatile as a blazer; no matter whether you pair it with a top and jeans or something a little smarter, a blazer will elevate your outfit to exude those effortlessly chic vibes that so many of us are after. Noticing that my checked blazer was beginning to look a little worn, I first decided to pick up a bright pink blazer from Marks and Spencers earlier this year. Despite the fit being second-to-none, however, this bright pink colour was a little out-of-place for my personal wardrobe. As a result, I went onto Depop and found this gorgeous blazer from Topshop as a replacement of sorts. Much like the Marks and Spencers blazer, this piece from Topshop is rather flattering due to some panelling details and will be a great item to throw over the top of pretty much anything this transition period!
River Island Cream Leather Shoulder Bag - £7.50, Vinted.
Originally £70.
As contradictory as it may sound, I believe that one of the greatest fashion myths we are fed is that black is a universally flattering colour. While it may be true that black is a lot more versatile than other colours on the spectrum, I could not help but think that my rather clunky black backpack and black loafers looked a little out of place with my light pink and beige looks. As a result, I decided I would look for a cream/beige bag before I left for university and found this beauty on Vinted. I was honestly quite shocked at the price as the bag still had all its original tags intact and was in perfect condition, but I wasn't going to complain! Admittedly, I would have preferred the bag to be a little big bigger as it currently cannot even fit a small folder inside but it will be more than adequate for the essentials; after all, I still have my trusty Kanken backpack for those library trips!
Boden Navy Polka Dot Top - £3.50, Local Charity Shop.
Original Price Likely Around £30-£40.
As soon as restrictions began to ease in June, I began to volunteer at one of my local charity shops - a decision that was, admittedly, a little dangerous for my bank account. Naturally, as you sift through and sort stock day in day out, you're bound to find something that catches your eye! The most recent addition to my wardrobe is this beautiful navy polka dot top from Boden. Not only is the material of this top wonderful, but it also showcases some pleat detailing at the back that adds a little kick to an otherwise rather standard top - and believe it or not, it's these little details that make all the difference! A bargain methinks...
Zara black and White Patterned Long-Sleeve Top - £1, Local Charity Shop.
Original Price Likely Around £20.
These last two items were those that I discovered whilst sorting stock instead of being on the shop floor, hence I do think that I got a volunteer discount when I asked for the item to be priced. This top from Zara is very much a 'Gabija top'; you have all the elements of a basic day-to-day top but a couple of funky details like the shirred sleeves thrown in to make it interesting. What's more is that you can just about throw it on with anything, be it a faux leather skirt or a pair of tailored trousers - minimal steaming required too!
H&M Dotted Ruffle Dress - £2, Local Charity Shop.
Original Price Likely Around £20.
We simply have to save the best until last, am I right? This polka dot dress with ruffle detailing from H&M is by far my favourite find of the lot, and it was the dress that I decided to wear on my birthday a couple of days ago. What I love about this dress specifically is that it fits as if it were made for me, hugging me in in all of the right places, and channels my feminine energy with its details. Furthermore, it is a perfect transition piece as it can be worn both in the warmer months with some sandals and in the colder months with some tights and ankle boots!