A PRO THRIFTER has revealed her six top tips for finding the best things when charity shopping – and suggests the key is making a mood board before hitting the shops.
Monica also suggested checking out fabrics and sticking to a single colour palette will help limit ‘impulse buys’.
Known online as @themonicaway, the keen bargain hunter regularly shares secondhand shopping tips with her 34,300 followers.
In a new TikTok reel, she said: “Here are six top tips for finding amazing things in charity shops.
“Hi, my name is Monica, and over 90 per cent of what I know is secondhand.
“First up, and we have making a Pinterest board.
“Shopping secondhand is a highly visual task. It’s not the same as buying in a first-hand shop, and you need to be constantly aware of what is around you.
“By making a vision board, you stay hyper-focused on what your style is, and it helps you identify pieces that aline with your desired look.
“It also stops you from impulsive buying.
“I make a style mood board every quarter. I find it so useful and highly recommend doing it.
“Number two, and that’s knowing your colour palette.
“What’s great about a lot of charity shops now is that they merchandise by colour. This makes it really easy to spot the pieces that will fit your wardrobe and style.
“I’m definitely a monochrome girly, but this can be any colour palette that you like.
For her third tip, Monica suggested checking out what a piece is made of before committing to the purchase.
This helps you ensure it’ll last well and that you’ll get your wear out of it.
She continued: “Number three and that’s looking for quality fabrics. I can not stress this enough.
“My favourite fabrics to look for are cashmere, silk, linen, leather, and any natural materials in general.
“Always check the labels of items.
“Number four and that’s to make a running list in your phone notes when you’re getting ready.
“If you notice there’s an item that you’re missing in your wardrobe that would really help make your outfit, make a note of it in your phone and next time you’re charity shopping, refer to your notes.
“This is a great way of secondhand shopping strategically and cleverly.
“It’s very easy to get overwhelmed when secondhand shopping, so keeping a note in your phone really is helpful.
“Number five, and that’s to be aware of the brands that carry heritage or are known for their quality.
“I’m always on the lookout for brands that have been around for a long time, and that are known from being well made and from great materials.”
Her final tip – look out for those unique pieces, as these can be pricey on the high street.
She added: “And number six, keep an eye out for anything sparkly or with gold buttons, or anything that’s got a particularly fun fabric.
“Often you’ll find really unique, funky pieces that perhaps would cost a lot more first-hand.
“Being the magpie that I am, I always spot things that are metallic or glitzy or just have really beautiful fabrics with ornate patterns or designs.”
Fans loved her savvy tips, with the video gaining more than 80 likes and 1,300 views.
In the comments, other TikTok users shared their thoughts, with one writing: “I admire your style SO much! Today, you don’t know how many times I said to myself while shopping, ‘oh Monica would appreciate this one!’”
“Thank you,” commented another.
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