We have found a bargain for you while still considering the impact fashion trends and other “throwaway” household goods have on the planet.

Where you may ask – well it’s no secret… it’s your local op shop where you can search through the endless racks of clothing and shelves of goodies.

Maureen Stock who has been volunteering at the local Lutheran Care Op Shop at The Precinct for about two years said there is something there for everyone.

“Lots of clothes and lots of bric-a-brac,” she said. “To buy in op shops is a lot cheaper and if you go into normal clothing stores you have the same clothing over and over again. “Here we have different clothes and outfits, something for everyone”

Maureen said it is important to donate goods to your local charities to help those in need, as well as save items going to landfill.

“It’s a lot going to landfill and saves it building up there,” she said. “Don’t throw it away, and put a lot of waste out there, where it can be resold to other people that actually need it and can’t afford to go to a shopping centre and pay out $30 for one jumper or $20 for a pair of pants.”

Items not sold in store are often sent overseas to other countries who are in need of support.

“What we can’t sell in the shop, it will be put into bags – sent back to Blair Athol and most is sent overseas to people less fortunate than us,” she said.

Not only is the store filled with pre-loved clothing and household goods, it recycles old items creating them into something completely new.

From blankets perfect to keeps bubs warm to material shopping bags that can hold all your items bought in store.

The local experience: A message from the writer | Kate Hayward

Day to night, head to toe in under $50.

I LOVE fashion and I LOVE op shops – always finding treasures whenever I visit my local.

I thought to be part of this experience, I would show you some of my finds at the Lutheran Care Op Shop. From a smart casual day look, perfect for drinks with friends, to a retro-chic look because let’s face it – the 80s are back baby!

These two looks (head to toe – shoes and accessories included) are both under $30 each, and some of the items are brand new, never been worn.

We visited the local Lutheran Care Op Shop at The Precinct (112 Coventry Road) in Smithfield Plains, find a local store near you by visiting: https://www.lccare.org.au/how-you-can-help/op-shops/