As crowds descend on the nation’s High Streets this week, following the reopening of non-essential stores, the savviest shoppers are to be found trawling charity shops and vintage emporiums for deals

As crowds descend on the nation’s High Streets this week, following the reopening of non-essential stores, the savviest shoppers are to be found trawling charity shops and vintage emporiums for deals.

Second-hand shops were braced for a flood of donations similar to the volume received following the end of the first lockdown, as millions of us have once again had plenty of time to clear out our wardrobes.

Last summer Cancer Research UK saw a 31 per cent increase in donations, while Oxfam’s online sales over Christmas were up 90 per cent compared with the same period the year before.

The time is ripe to get on the pre-loved bandwagon — it’s an ideal way to source sustainable pieces and move away from ‘fast’ fashion, which sees clothes mass-produced at low cost, worn a few times and then disposed of.

And with a surplus of stock in charity shops right now, there are bargains galore if you know what to look for.

But if you’re put off by thoughts of musty dresses and ill-fitting garments, follow PRUE WHITE’S top tips on how to navigate the second-hand minefield and bag yourself a stylish, one-of-a- kind look.

Go armed with a tape measure 

We all know modern sizing can vary from store to store, but when you’re shopping vintage, the nuances are even greater.

You need to know your body well, because labels are sometimes missing and it’s not always possible to try pieces on. Be sure to have your waist, hip and bust measurements to hand and be prepared to alter items.

If you’re a dab hand with a needle and thread that’s perfect — but, if not, head to your local tailor.

Most dry cleaners offer an alterations service, too. Try this out with an item you’re not too invested in before handing over your best-loved piece.

Be strategic 

make home made baby food friends with the volunteers in your local second-hand shops by taking your own good-quality clothes in often. Not only will this help you clear your clutter, it also ensures you’ll check in regularly for fresh stock.

Consider your locale though — the people you see on the streets around you are likely to be the same people making the donations, so think about where you might discover the best loot.

It may well be worth a trip to a posher postcode!

Look for designer ‘tells’ 

If you’re shopping premium, knowing the signatures of specific brands is imperative to avoid buying fakes.

To limit the counterfeit trade, some use hologram stickers, often sewn into seams (UGG boots have these), while bags by labels such as Gucci or Fendi will have serial numbers inside them. More premium retailers, such as Designer Exchange, will have already done this verification process, so you can be confident that you’re buying the real thing.

But the price will reflect this, so you’re going to pay more here than you will for a gem uncovered in Oxfam. 

Focus on fabric

Keep an eye out for natural fabrics such as cotton, wool and silk (like this pink Cacharel bib-front blouse from Wolf & Gypsy Vintage in Brighton) because they are all environmentally friendly and hard-wearing.

That said, some original 1970s polyester pieces will wear well without creasing — as well as being jolly with their disco vibes.

But don’t rush…

Remember, there’s no going back.

Most sellers, including luxury pre-loved retailer Sellier Knightsbridge, don’t accept returns. Be sure you love the piece before you part with your cash, but don’t dismiss something just because it’s a bit bashed up. When it comes to designer handbags and shoes, it could be worth breathing new life back into them.

The Restory (the-restory.com), which has branches in Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, will collect your item and painstakingly restore it.