WITH the country in the grip of the credit crunch, we’re all finding that we’ve got to tighten our purse strings.
But while the high street continues to suffer, business in charity shops is booming, their wares being snapped up by shoppers looking for a bargain.
Even the most fashion-conscious shoppers are scouring the rails of these stores, looking for one-off pieces at rock bottom prices.
And they are definitely on to something. More and more charity shops are gaining a reputation for being the place to find some great outfits and accessories – many with the labels that the fashionistas are looking for but without the expensive price tag.
Like many teenagers, Lauren Gallagher, usually looks to big-name high street stores for retail therapy.
The 15-year-old Shelley College student loves a bargain, but has never really been inspired by clothes on offer in charity shops.
She said: “I’ve been into charity shops, but the only thing I’ve ever bought is a bag.
“I’ve never really thought of buying clothes from there; I didn’t think I’d be able to find something fashionable that suited me.”
Armed with our willing volunteer, we decided to put some of Huddersfield’s charity shops to the test to see if we could change Lauren’s perceptions and come up with some fabulous outfits that won’t break the bank.
With a budget of just £10 per outfit, we searched through the racks to see if we could come up with a casual daytime outfit, a smart outfit for work or college and a glam evening frock.
