Find a new wardrobe that saves dollars and the planet

Gillian Kearney says op shopping not only supports your community charity but is good for your wallet and the planet.

“Buying from an op shop hits the triple bottom line – social, environmental and financial,” Gilly said.

It’s National Op Shop Week and the sustainability education officer was encouraging people to join in by donating or buying goods, or by volunteering at local op shops.

“Many community programs are funded by income from charity shops and would struggle without generous donations and keen buyers,” Gilly said.

She said buying pre-loved goods reduced the impact on the environment and that donating quality items kept them from going to landfill.

“Buying then throwing out cheap and on-trend clothes, usually worn only once or twice, is a massive waste,” said Gilly.

“A lot of energy and a lot of water is used making clothing. One kilo of cotton requires 2,000 litres of water, while one kilo of leather uses 17,000 litres.”

Gilly said you could find quality items made to last.

“You’ll often come across some nice vintage gear, and when you buy second hand you are opting out of the fast-fashion cycle without a big hit to your wallet,” she said.

Gilly admitted there was a bit of a knack to op-shopping.

“Ask your op-shopping friends for local intel on the best places to go. Once in the shop, go for fabrics and colours that suit you – just like in a conventional shop.

“Op shopping is a bit like a box of chocolates; you never know what you are going to get but there are many treasures if you know where and how to look.

To find out more about op shop week visit https://dosomethingnearyou.com.au/national-op-shop-week/.