Second-Hand September was Gail’s idea! And I knew it would be a challenge for me. I used to shop in second-hand, charity and vintage shops when I was in college! But I got out of the habit in recent years.
My favourite was Jenny Vander, which opened in George’s Street Arcade in 1974, the year I started college. As well as casual wear, I bought all my Trinity Ball dresses there. Some of my clothes ended up in the costume department in the school I taught in!
OXFAM IRELAND
Anyway, back to our prompt from Gail. A few days after she gave us our theme, Oxfam Ireland got in touch. I was asked to participate in their Second-Hand September challenge. The aim is to encourage all of us to make more conscious decisions when it comes to purchasing what we wear.
I visited two Oxfam shops, my local one in Malahide and Talbot Street. I do pop in from time to time but honestly, I never give more than a cursory glance around. This time was different though as I was on a mission. The stylist daughter is an avid second-hand and vintage shopper and often finds gems among the men’s clothes. So after I went through the ladies’ rails, I had a look at the men’s.
Imagine my excitement when I found a vintage navy Louis Copeland 100% cashmere blazer in perfect condition for just €50. I teamed the oversized blazer with a striped tee, blue denims and red shoes.
Oxfam had given me a voucher for €100 and I spent the rest on new M&S leather boots in Oxfam Talbot Street and a leather belt in Malahide. You will see them in future posts.
‘STYLE NOT AGE’
Gail looks fabulous in her corduroy pinafore bought on Vinted. Love those leopard print tights Gail! Check out her post on IS THIS MUTTON.
Anna bought this colourful dress on Vinted also. I think I need to check it out. Not even sure how it works. Pop on over to ANNA’S ISLAND STYLE for all the details.
Emma is a pro at shopping vintage and second-hand, just like Anna. You can find out where she got her outfit if you check out her post on THE STYLE SPLASH.
Jacqui looks very elegant in her second-hand Monsoon dress and you can find out more on MUMMABSTYLISH.
FINAL THOUGHTS
What have I learned from this challenge? I have discovered how to shop second-hand again. You need to go in with an open mind and you need to pop in frequently. There are amazing bargains to be found, from new leather boots and belts to vintage coats in excellent condition. I have been trying to make more conscious choices and shop sustainably. Second hand shops will feature from now on.
As always, thank you for reading.
Love Hilda x
