It’s January. Christmas is over and everyone is back to work. It feels as though winter is here to stay forever. What better time for a spot of vintage retail therapy to brighten our spirits, says JESS OWEN…
I’ve noticed that people in Leeds are outgoing in their fashion choices, so for my second Charity Shop Challenge, I am on the lookout for an edgy, vintage outfit.
Anyone Who Ever Had a Heart…
The British Heart Foundation in the Merrion Centre always has something that tickles my fancy, and this time it did not disappoint. Here I bought a from Topshop navy, geometric patterned knitted jumper for £5.49 which I’m sure would have cost more than £30 when new.
I found a pair of black pin-stripe drawstring culottes from Bershka (which I left because I seriously need to start budgeting), a pair of Harry Potter DVDs for 99p and a sewing pattern for 50p.
Ryder Love…
I mentioned the Sue Ryder Vintage & Retro in Headingley last time. This time I bought a pair of gold-coloured earrings inset with amber for £3. (Remember to wash them gently in hot soapy water and wipe the posts in surgical spirit before wearing them for the first time).
I don’t know the make of the earrings, where they came from originally, or even if they are gold-plated and do indeed contain real amber, but they are a timeless and detailed piece of jewellery. If one day they turn out to be worth a small fortune then the drinks are on me!
Sue Ryder also produced a silk-feel animal print scarf for £2. It may not sure if be real silk, but it feels luxuriously soft and you can wear it in your hair, around your neck or even tie it to the handle on your bag to spruce it up a little bit.
Back to the Old House…
My last item is not actually from Leeds… I visited my Grandparents in the south recently and decided to trawl through the charity shops of their town. I found a dark green pencil skirt by Zara in Scope for £4.50… Bargain!
Reckoning…
My vintage-style outfit cost me just £14.99 in total. Extremely good value, if you ask me. All the items were in very good condition.
If you are squeamish about wearing somebody else’s clothes, then shove them in the washing machine. The money all goes to some great causes, and you can look fab without the hefty ticket price.
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