Charity Shop Tales 17

It's been over a month since I'd had a good look in a charity shop, so the other day I ventured into one of my favourite local charity shops and had a good mooch around.  It wasn't long before I found a few things I liked.   Despite my post about a wardrobe stocktake and despite the fact that I already have too many clothes, I'm afraid I just couldn't resist these.  First was this navy Boden fitted jersey dress. 

It was a size smaller than I usually wear, but I thought I'd try it on anyway and to my surprise it fitted really well.  It was reduced from £5.50 to £3.50, so needless to say it was in my basket pretty sharpish.  The only problem I have with it is, that it is very low cut, so I will have to wear it with a vest or long sleeved t-shirt underneath, which shouldn't be too much of a problem.  I tried it with this vest and liked this look as it adds a bit of colour and a touch of the nautical to an otherwise very plain dress.

The second item of clothing I saw and liked was this skirt from Tu at Sainsbury's.

It was brand new with tags still attached and cost just £4.  It's not the usual style that I wear, but sometimes a change is good and the print was so striking I thought it might brighten up my wardrobe a little this summer.

The final item of clothing I found was this black jacket from Next.  This isn't a great photo, but it does actually look better on.

I needed a smart/casual looking black jacket for everyday wear in autumn/winter so this fitted the bill perfectly.  I liked the short sleeves and tie belt on this jacket.  A bit different and quite flattering.  This too cost £4 and is in very good condition.  I don't think it has been washed as the button, still in it's plastic bag was still attached.

I also bought a few other items including this book, Born-Again Vintage by Bridgett Artise and Jen Karetnick, which is all about reconstructing vintage clothes to make very individual outfits.  It cost £2.50.

It has some very interesting ideas in it.  I particularly liked this T-shirt Dress idea.  (Although I did like the checked dress before it was altered!) 

This Sweater Slipdress was a chic idea too.  Looks very French. (On the model anyway!)

I also bought a couple more pieces of leather, similar to some I'd bought previously from the same shop. 

They were £2 each and will be great for clutch bags or purses.  I must get making something with my leather pieces soon.  I've got no excuse now I've got some needles for my machine.

Finally, I bought a couple of things for Little Bird, a large piece of fabric for £1, a sewing pattern and a couple of zips.  It was a bit of a splurge, but I've spent very little so far this month.  I just haven't really felt like shopping for some reason.  It's all going to a good cause anyway and I'm really happy with my purchases.