How what you wear shopping can save you time & money

Published February, 2016

We’re busy getting ready for our op shop tour this Saturday! Part of getting ready includes what I wear on the day.

We shop 4 shops in 3 hours with walking in between so there is a lot to get through in a limited amount of time and we want to maxmise our opportunity when we’re out and about.

A huge part of maximising your preloved shopping experience either when op shopping or at events is being strategic about what you choose to wear. One of the tips I teach on the tour is how to know if something will fit you without trying it on.

When I’m choosing my outfit for this Saturday I like to stick with:

• Comfort and fit –  I want to feel comfortable so that I can be myself. I like clothes with a close fit this way I’ll easily be able to hold clothing up against me or try things on over the top if the fitting rooms are busy.

• Neutral colours – if I’m looking at item that has bold patterning or bright colours I don’t want what I’m wearing to distract me when I look in the mirror as I hold this item up against myself –  then I can make a quick decision if the item belongs in my wardrobe or not.

• Layered – that way I can dress usually with a cardi so if the weather is cooler I can easily slip it on or off in between shops.

• Shoulder bag –  with long strap to easily carry across my body – not bulky, small versatile –  just cash, cards, phone, sunnies and my colour swatches.

• Simple shoes – something I can easily slip on and off quickly – no laces or buckles. They’ll also be comfortable for walking in so I don’t end up with blisters at the end of our shopping trip after 3 hours.

• Minimum jewellery – simple but stylish – avoiding dangling earrings or statement jewellery – that way I’ll have more opportunity to find some new pieces without what I’m wearing getting in the way and getting damaged.

My wardrobe choice for this Saturday’s shopping tour

So, what will you wear next time you are preloved fashion shopping? Take some pics of your outfit and share them on ourFacebook or Instagram page tagging @raidmywardrobe we’d love to see it!

Yours in all things preloved,

Rachel Prest

Rachel Prest

Director & Founder at Raid My Wardrobe

Rachel Prest is founder of Raid My Wardrobe. In 2010, she founded a preloved fashion event for women to refresh, recycle and reinvent their wardrobes. She began this blog in 2016 as a way to inspire, educate and encourage her community with more sustainable ways of fashion shopping, styling and creating. When she's not doing a wardrobe makeover or planning the next event you'll find her down at the beach, hiking or mountain biking in the bush or hanging out with her friends and her kids. Rachel is based in Newcastle, Australia.