There are two great advantages to op-shopping/thrifting. One- You will save money and two- you will help use up what is already in circulation, rather than adding to landfill down the line.
I've always enjoyed scouring the isles of the local second hand shop, searching for unique treasure and bargains galore. Of course there's a fine line between finding something great and just bringing home lots of junk that you don't even need. Even if you make this mistake, at least you can donate it back or try your hand at selling it, but you must stay on top of it before it piles up!
Before you go out to buy a new home appliance or decoration, think to yourself, could I find one that's already out there in existence, for a fraction of the price? Because eventually, you will throw yours out too and it will just add to the landfill situation. So try to hold off putting your money in the hands of giant corporations and practice consumer awareness.
I have come a very long way when it comes to the way I shop, but I am far from perfect. I still get a rush from buying things at the mall and when I'm having a bad day usually I know this will make me feel better (temporarily). But I have, in the last three years or so, started practising mindfulness when I shop and being aware of my habits and the way I live. I have de-cluttered, re-arranged and simplified my living. And it is a life long journey.
I like to mix new with old, to create a home or outfit that has a touch of character and interest.
And the horrible truth of it all is... everything has to go somewhere. No material object just goes away. Makes you think, eh?
Today after work I dropped into my local Salvation Army store because there were a couple of things we needed at home.
I was on the hunt for:
1. A rice cooker. The one we had was from this very op shop and had been great, but the day prior it just stopped working altogether.
2. A bullet blender or similar. Again, the Bellini brand bullet blender we have is from this Op-shop, it still works but sometimes it leaks and a couple of the cups now have cracks from me being rough with them.
3. Stereo speakers. The ones I'd been using for three years were the ones my parents used, so they are older than I am! They are a little worse for wear, and my stereo has been displaying the signal "Protect" ever since we moved house in November. Research told me it was broken speakers.
I came home with:
1. A rice cooker. Score!
2. Two Sony speakers. Double score! However, my stereo still shows the "protect" signal so I need to research that one further before I'll know the quality of the speakers. It could mean it needs an internal clean.
3. A pasta making machine. Ok, I know this wasn't on my list, but it is actually something my partner Louis and I have been meaning to get, so this was a great find and an even better price.
4. A funky dress. Another thing not on my list, but i had a quick little squiz through the racks as you just never know what might be there to make your closet all the more complete.
Brand- Sari Size- XL
Cost- $7.00
Verdict- I do like this dress, but the back is a little short for me.. But I think in winter it would be fine with some tights or leggings underneath.
Brand- d.line
cost- $14.00 || I did a quick Google search and these go anywhere from $80- $100.
Verdict- I still haven't used it as I only got it today. It comes with all the pieces and instruction manual, so I'm sure you can't really go wrong here. Just needs abit of a clean and I'm sure it will be sparkling.
Brand- Sony
Price- $10.00 for the pair
The verdict- The issue turns out to be with my stereo itself, and I am currently trying figure out how to get it working.
They look perfect anyway so let's hope they sound good. My stereo is also a Sony brand.
I am very happy with the price, and all electronics are tested in the store so I'm sure these are in working order. If not, I have one week to return them.
The Rice cooker doesn't look very interesting at all so I won't bother with a photo. But it looks exactly like our old one and looks brand new.
The brand- Kambrook
Price- $8.00, new they are $25.00
So all in all, I spent $39.00
I probably could have gone without the dress, as this is one of my weaknesses that I am working on! Buying items of clothing and wearing them once or never.. But I want to make a point of wearing this dress in the Autumn/Winter.
The rice cooker will definitely get used on the regular.
The pasta maker will get used, probably only once in a while. But if it's easy enough then more often.
The speakers will get used daily if I can get my damn stereo working.
So there you have it, a small little hall and I feel pretty happy with my finds. I was only in the shop for 10 minutes and scored big time. I will be doing more blogs on op-shopping/thrifty living and also de-cluttering the home. If you'd like to follow along, sign up for the mailing list and my posts will be sent to your inbox.
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