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Vintage fashions go full circle

Classic look: Elisa Tancredi in clothes from Miss Brown. Picture: Mogens Johansen/The West Australian

Charities are benefiting from fashionistas' attraction to pre-loved pieces from bygone eras, with shoppers of all ages picking up bargains at op-shops and vintage clothing stores.

Op-shops are also reminding people that wardrobe spring cleaning is the ideal time to donate clothes in good condition.

National Association of Charitable Recycling Organisations chief executive Kerryn Caulfield said charity op-shops staffed by volunteers were integral to Australian society.

"Proceeds raised from the donated goods enable Australian charities to assist tens of thousands of people in need," Ms Caulfield said.

Those keen to dress with a touch of individuality are happy to search for unique pieces either at charity op-shops or vintage-clothing boutiques.

Miss Brown co-owner Kelly Roberson, whose store specialises in classic and modified clothing, said an attraction to well-made vintage fashion was growing in Perth.

"The beautiful thing about our products and diversity is we can sell to 16-year-olds and to 60-year-olds," she said.

"It's a fantastic way to have personalised fashion rather than expensive mass-produced labels."

Some people were unaware that old designer pieces from the back of their late grandmother’s wardrobe could be valuable.

“If it’s from the past 10 years, that’s clothing to donate,” Ms Roberson said.

“It’s also good karma to donate clothing to charity.

“Anything 20 years or older – like a vintage designer coat – that you’ve purchased from a flea market or op shop and is in beautiful condition, keep it because it will hold its value.

“Classic pieces never date.”