CHARITY SHOPPING : GIVE A LITTLE, GET A LITTLE

I’ve been meaning to run a series about charity shopping here on Homebug for some time. With the recession bug a-biting I keep coming across fashion writers, etc. saying “OMG. We’ll be reduced to charity shop chic!” when in reality what they mean is “I hope no-one notices that all my clothes are from H&M now” because in all my years of charity shopping, I’ve never encountered a single fashion writer. Although to be honest, apart from the occasional handbag or belt, Dublin charity shops are hardly fashion treasure troves. What they can be great for though is vintage homewares and furniture at scandalously bargainous prices.

Charity shopping is sort of like an archaeological dig – you might have to cover a lot of ground before anything turns up, and you never know what you’re going to find. I’m always on the lookout for interesting vintage patterns – on plates, cups and fabrics mostly. I’ll also rummage for quirky artwork and mirrors. The key is to look out for interesting pieces in good condition – no chips, fading or wear and tear. And if you know a little bit about collectibles from your favourite era (mine at the moment is 1930s through 1970s!) desirable pieces will jump right out at you.

While charity shopping in Rathmines last Saturday I came across this unusual little fellow – a mid-century brass horse figurine by Walter Bosse. It was a snip at just €1; when I got home I discovered that Bosse’s figurines can fetch 50 times that! Sweet! That’s probably one of my most braggable charity shop finds to date, but by no means my favourite. So I think I’ll make “Charity Shopping” a regular Homebug feature, wherein I highlight the hidden treasures in Ireland’s charity shops. Hurrah for guilt-free, recession shopping!