How to op shop like a pro

Follow these tips and you'll be sure to walk away with a bargain op shop score - that you'll actually use. Happy National Op Shop Week!

1. Gather your inspo

Why pay full price when you can replicate your fave #OOTD from thrift store finds?

Social media doesn't just need to be about coveting the latest "it" piece or brand that every second influencer is flaunting. Use it instead to get ideas for anything from outfits to home styling to party decorating, then take that ammo on your treasure hunt!

Striped tee, denim skirt, leather belt? You're sure to dig those out of any op shop.

Matching glass jars and bottles for your #pantrygoals? Yep, op shops are brimming with the things.

Do what you need to do to get inspired and record your ideas, then you're ready for a hunt!

Me in my Manning Cartell dress, Salvos of course! 

2. Umm... Just get out there!

Don't have time to sift through op shops? Pretty much all of them are open Monday through Saturday, and there's sure to be one along your commute somewhere.

Plus, you've now got your mental/ physical/ photographic list of what you're on the look out for so you're already winning.

Pro Tip: Search "op shop" in Google Maps and voila! You've got a list of them all close by.

It can be handy to check out what the locals or your favourite bloggers are saying about each op shop, then pick your marks.

3. Sharp eyes, open mind

You've got some ideas of what you want, so keep those eyes peeled. Op shops these days are often organised by size, item or even colour - let those be your guide.

But op shops are treasure troves of the deep unknown, so I always go in with an open mind - while still aspiring to be a minimalist...

Found the perfect piece that's just a bit too baggy, too long or doesn't quite sit right? Consider finding someone locally to alter it for you - I promise it will still work out cheaper than retail!

4. Share the love

Share your latest thrifty find on your social channels, and make sure you tag the op shop! Don't be afraid to tell people your secret when they comment on an outfit.

"Oh thanks, op shop," I so often chuff.

It's a good feeling, and hopefully it will inspire others around you to join the op shop love train!

It's seriously addictive.

What are your favourite op shop scores?

-  Ash