Second-hand love

While walking through our neighbourhood, I happened upon a shop called Mary’s Living and Giving. Huh, I said, as I peered through the giant windows to see colour-sorted racks of clothing, shoes and bags - and even homeware. I realized this shop was a consignment shop — or “charity shop” as they call them here. But…the items looked too…good…for this to be a charity shop.

So, naturally — I went in.

I was greeted warmly by the shopkeeper, so I asked about the store. It was, indeed, a charity shop, and proceeds from all of the donated items in the shop go to Save the Children. “Wow”, I said.

And I kept saying ‘wow’ as I perused the racks of dresses and jackets from Paris — directly from Paris — and the many other items from UK labels like Hobbs, Ted Baker, Reiss, Burberry, Stella McCartney, and other labels like Max Mara and Anthropologie, to name just a few.

I have been shopping pre-loved for a long time, now. Back in the States, I used Poshmark a lot because thrift stores near me weren’t so hot — except Lola Saratoga, of course. So, this — this — was more than a treat for me to find. I instantly made it a mission to tour charity shops around me, and I haven’t been disappointed yet.

I’ve had a couple friends ask me how to shop consignment. One even asked why they should, and I nearly fell over. First off, it’s a help to the environment. Also, you’ll save a ton of moolah. Sure, some items are more difficult than others. Shoes, for example. Unless you can tell they’ve never been worn, it might be dicey. Or, just spray them with anti-fungal/disinfectant foot spray first. Clothes are a bit easier. I’ve found items new with tags, and items that are pre-loved, but were clearly very well taken care of. Not to mention, I’ve sewn buttons back on a designer item I would never have purchased otherwise. Bags are a no-brainer. While I get you might want to splurge on a brand new bag once in a while, buying pre-loved just makes…cents.

Speaking of cents, let’s talk about prices, and finding that steal that makes you squeal. For example, at a different charity shop, I recently spotted a Celine bag that retailed new for at least £2800 ($3700) and was in excellent condition (light normal wear, but no tears, rips or stains). The charity shop had it priced at £600 (just under $800). WHAT. I was floored. And, it came with the original box.

Again, WHAT.

I would be willing to bet the Celine bag that if I found it back home in NY, it would be priced much higher. I wondered if the lower price was because we’re in London, and closer to Paris, and they see more of these labels come through — so they’re not as rare/surprising to find. Maybe, I don’t know — but I’m definitely not going to ask and be like, “Do you know how much you could get for this in NY?!” … because I’m not stupid. I’ve even gotten better at hiding my shocked face/stifling my gasps so as not to alert them to the highway robbery I’m getting away with, here. And yes, Celine came home with me.

Anyway, it was suggested that I post my charity shop finds on Instagram — or create a new Instagram account solely for them. I don’t think I’ll devote the time it will take to make a new account successful due to the niche, but make sure you’re following my adventures in London on the ‘gram if consignment contentment is your thing.