I am a long time supporter of buying in charity shops. I am like the O.G when it comes to shopping second hand. Back in the day, however, it was certainly not cool to say
" I bought in the charity shop" When I was younger, and I was going to an event, I would do my best to seek something out second hand before anywhere else. Many times I attended weddings and parties and even work events in a second hand item, but I would never ever admit it - isn't that sad, now that I look back on it all, I am annoyed at myself for not being honest. Afraid of what people would think. Now I am older, and a (little) bit wiser, I can be honest, because as you get older, you get more confident in yourself, you don't have to follow the crowd.
Many a time a friend or work colleague would say "where did you get your dress, its fab" I may have purchased it in the NCBI or St Vincent's, for a fraction of the price, it may even had the tags on!! and I would reply with "oh I bought it in......" (Some high street shop or boutique, checking the label prior to the event for fear of being caught out :-)
Over the last 10 years things have dramatically changed, there have been unique preloved clothing boutiques and clothing stores opening up around Ireland.
Along with the rise of social media, have come really niche groups for buying and selling your items. These are great platforms as they are a safe environment for people to sell and buy clothing.
I know that when I buy and sell something second hand I am entering the circular fashion movement, I am playing my part in helping to extend the lifespan of clothing and reduce what ends up in landfill.
In the pic above I am wearing only Vintage, second hand and upcycled items and I look damn happy to be doing so. I also FEEL happy to wear them and that is what matters the most :-)