My Top Secret Tips for Second-Hand Shopping - shhh!!

Let’s face it: you're reading this because you either know shopping second-hand is the way to discover amazing finds, save cash, and help the planet at the same time or you want to learn how.

And here’s the thing – if you don’t have a strategy, you might end up buried under a pile of ‘meh’ (as my teenagers would say!) basically items that you’ll only regret later. Fear not, though! I’m here to give you my top secret tips for second-hand shopping like a pro, and trust me, once you’re armed with these tricks, you’ll be finding treasures left and right (without wasting any of your precious time).

1. Make a List (I’m talking specifics)

Before you even think about hitting up your favourite charity shop or browsing online, grab a pen and paper (or your phone, 'Mam you're not living in the 90s!' I hear from the next room) and make a list of everything you actually need or would absolutely love. Be specific. I mean, really specific. Think colour, fabric, season, brand, make, the whole shebang. For example, instead of saying "I need a dress," say, "I want a red, midi-length, long-sleeve dress, size 12, from Zara/Cos/Chanel (we can dream!!) or something similar."

Here’s why this is crucial (yes, I said it): having those details is your secret weapon in avoiding time-wasting impulse buys or endless hours of scrolling through things you don’t need. Plus, you’ll be able to tell whether it's a want or a need – and trust me, there’s a difference. Keep that list handy and refer to it often – it’s your shopping sece.

2. Get the Apps, Start the Browsing

Now, I’m all about making life easy, and apps like Adverts.ie or DoneDeal are a game changer. Personally, I’m obsessed with Adverts.ie because you can check out reviews from other users, which adds a little extra peace of mind to your second-hand buying. Plus, you can shop from the comfort of your couch (hello, no queues or crowds).

Take a bit of time to browse and get a feel for what’s out there. This is especially handy if you're looking for something specific but don’t want to leave your house – it’s like window shopping, but without the windows (or the walking).

3. Charity Shops Are The Best

Alright, charity shops are where the magic happens, and I'm not just talking about the clothes. For me, the best ones are the ones with parking right out front or close by Convenience means people are way more likely to drop off their items. Some of the larger shops like St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) or Irish Cancer Society are amazing because they tend to get donations from loyal donors who “save” their good stuff for those specific places. I find those shops to be a goldmine for quality items.

But don’t forget the smaller, lesser-known shops – you might have to dig a little deeper, but that’s half the fun, right? Plus, you’ll often find stuff that’s one of a kind like my recent vintage 80's sequinned jacket which I adore!

4. Have an Open Mind (Trust Me on This One)

Okay, this is where the magic happens. Second-hand shopping can be a treasure hunt, but you’ve got to be willing to dig a little. Sometimes things look a bit... well, meh when they’re on the rack or shelf. Clothes might be squished, shoes might be mismatched, or there could be a dusty shelf that hides something absolutely stunning.

My secret tip? Always check the next rail or shelf over – sometimes the missing part of an outfit is just one shelf away! A few minutes here and there will uncover little gems that’ll you will love, keep your wardrobe looking fresh and unique and save the Earth's precious resources. 

5. The Time Factor: I Know, You’re Busy

I totally get it – time is precious. So, I’m not suggesting you spend hours hunting for the perfect item. A little bit of dedication and consistency goes a long way! Ten minutes here and there can make all the difference. Plus, you’ll be amazed at what you can find when you’re on the go. It doesn’t need to be a big shopping trip traipsing around for hours.

Some Final Thoughts Second-hand shopping is all about the thrill of the find, the satisfaction of scoring something amazing for a fraction of the cost and knowing you’re doing your bit for the planet. By using these my top secret tips, you’ll save time, money, and avoid buying random stuff that just doesn’t fit your vibe.

Go ahead, take these tips to the next level, and get ready to find something amazing. I can't wait to hear how you get on!