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5 Expert-Approved Tips For Shopping Second-Hand, Made Simple!


Shopping second-hand is more exciting than ever these days! With so many choices out there, it can be daunting for those new to the pre-loved fashion scene. So a savvy shopper needs a few tricks up their sleeve to make sure they don't miss out on the hidden gems. Stylist Amy Bannerman, who has worked with the likes of Dua Lipa and Sophie Turner and was behind Love Island's second-hand wardrobe shared a few of her secrets and we have a few to share too! We gotcha covered girl!


Amy has been sharing her insider tips to help us girls navigate the pre-loved fashion world and we, here at D|+ Sign KelCHer couldn't agree more. Like many of us, Amy's love of second-hand shopping began early on, in her family's closet. Go figure! Who doesn't play a little peek-a-boo in a sibling's wardrobe?! Or go stomping around in our mom's cutest pumps? Nothing beats shopping more than window shopping & playing dress-up in a family member's closet. Amy was no different as she too stated, "My older brother Angus inspired me a lot growing up - he had a vintage '80s leopard print coat which I endlessly coveted. I was always very sentimental with clothing, so I guess that a love of the meaning behind pieces was imbued at a young age."


And this stylist isn't shy about where she goes shopping for her hidden gems these days either! She is eBay obsessive and loves trawling the rails at consignment shops in search of hidden gems. "I love how in London you get such different things in different areas," she says. "I live in Leytonstone [in east London] and often find quite eclectic things, but in west London you're more likely to find luxury brands. I love travelling and I can't see a charity shop I haven't been to and pass it by - you just never know what you're going to miss out on!"Amy has accumulated a range of second-hand gems over the years, from a pair of Prada loafers to some Marc Jacobs snakeskin boots. Here are her expert tips for shopping second-hand:


1. Start off with specific pieces in mind - the '90s and Bucket Bags are particularly popular right now, so for those who grew up during this period, it's the perfect time to get your hands on the pieces you longed for when you were younger!


2. If you're shopping for something specific, it's best to shop second-hand online as you can use filters to narrow down your search. Online alerts are also great for this. However, if you're just browsing, then go into stores as well - you never know what pieces you'll discover!


3. Be creative with your search terms - try to look up things with unique descriptors and use alternate search words. For example, if something is diamanté, someone else could potentially describe it as shiny, sparkly or sequined.


4. Shop out of season - if you're looking for something like a leopard print coat or a leather trench when it's cold outside, everyone else will be too. But if you shop when it's summer or typically out of season, fewer people will be looking and you're likely to get a bargain.


5. [For Clothes] Know your measurements - a lot of people list with measurements or are happy to measure if you ask them. Go to a tailor and get measured properly - they will ask for a nominal fee. When buying vintage, size up by one or two sizes as the sizes don't equate to modern sizing.


So what are you waiting for? Get ready to discover some incredible pre-loved fashion finds and make some incredible bargains - happy shopping!






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