Everyone knows about the advantages of op shopping: it’s sustainable, it reduces the waste from fast fashion and it’s a fun, cheap way to give your wardrobe some pizazz. Some of my favourite outfits are op shop purchases! It can, however, seem daunting when you first start. Can you really find everything you need at an op shop?

I’ve put together this handy list of things to keep in mind when embarking on your next op shop adventure:

This helps a lot when you first go into an op shop. I try think about what I need first, and then let myself be open to finding some hidden gems.

I like going section by section; this helps me to not feel too overwhelmed and usually results in finding some great pieces. Make a list – decide to hit the pants section first, then move onto dresses, then to shoes.

It’s amazing what you can find in sections you may not have originally been drawn to. I’ve picked up some of my favourite shirts in the men’s section – all I needed to do was crop them.

Op shops are different to ordinary stores in that you won’t find the same item in all the sizes available. If you find something you love but it doesn’t quite fit, think about how you can alter it. Hemming and taking in seams is relatively easy; there are many YouTube tutorials out there to help you out.

It’s fun to try on weird and wacky combinations, but make sure you’re being a conscious consumer by only buying outfits that you’ll wear. Having said that, don’t be afraid to try new styles and colours!