I’m a charity shop pro, here’s the 12 things to look for – my tips will make it look like you’ve spent a fortune
A CHARITY shop expert has taken to TikTok to share her 12 top tips when shopping secondhand – and how to make sure your pre-loved wardrobe looks expensive.
Monica shared the key things she looks for when browsing her local charity shops – and the sections not to overlook.
Known online as @themonicaway, regularly shares secondhand hauls and tips with her 32,200 followers.
In a new reel, she said: “Here’s some tips on how to find amazing things, and look expensive, when shopping in charity shops.
“First up, and that’s to look for quintessential prints. Prints include beautiful plaids, houndstooth, tartans.
“Any print that has a heritage undertone really elevates and gives your wardrobe that look of sophistication.
“My next tip is while looking for outwear to really pay attention to the buttons.
“I’m often drawn to gold buttons, pearl-style buttons. Anything with those details really does give that look of expense.
For her third tip, Monica suggested sticking to one colour palette to make it easier to mix and match.
She added: “When it comes to colours, I like to stick to neutrals. That is just a personal decision but I do think this makes your wardrobe much easier to style up. Much more of a capsule-style wardrobe.
Tip four: “I buy all of my outwear from charity shops, I get such a great deal and you can find some really great, well-made quality pieces.
“This cardigan here was a great example. It has that very, very Chanel look but it was only £3.99.
Monica also suggested looking at a piece’s fabric makeup before committing to the sale.
Sharing tip five, she continued: “Always pay attention to the fabric make of the pieces.
“This here was 100 per cent pure wool and it’s just stunning. Looks so expensive.
Tip six: “If you’re somebody that likes to follow trends, try to buy as much as you can pre-loved.
“Here’s a good example of the trending cargo trousers at the moment.
Although, her seventh tip was to stick to the classics: “I personally prefer to stick to the classics.
“This here was a Jaeger pinstriped shirt for £9.99. I just love this.
“Eight, don’t be afraid to check out the homeware section, particularly if you know your homeware style.
“Nine, always visit the dress section because lots of people buy occasion wear only to wear it once or twice!”
Monica’s tenth tip was not to skip over the shoe section, as sometimes there can be some hidden gems.
“Don’t be afraid to check out the shoe rails as well. Sometimes you can find shoes completely unworn and some great brands.
Tip 11: “I always look out for colours such as navy and white cottons and linens.
And finally, she added: “My general rule is £1 per wear, so if something costs £35, you’ve got to wear it 35 times or more.
Fans loved her suggestions, with the video gaining more than 2,100 likes and 69,900 views.
In the comments, Monica’s followers shared their thoughts, with one writing: “I like the tip u go by 1pound per wear. Very good.”
Another said: “I got a 100% Alpaca Wool Scarf in a local charity shop of mine. Only £4! I can’t remember the last time I bought anything new!”
A third wrote: “Love this thank you so much! Sometimes I go in completely blind and come out with stuff totally random.”