Growing up, I was always on the hunt for bargains following every trend. I ended up collecting so many bits to a point were my wardrobe and draws were spilling out with items and not being the most organised person, Items would get lost in my space and I would totally forget about them. My sister who I shared a room with would often find things I totally forgot about, she was the tidy organised one.

I was a student in the heart of London, my university was just ten minutes away from Oxford Street. I remember slipping away during free periods, with Regent Street becoming my favourite retreat. The feeling of shopping alone, uninterrupted, felt like pure bliss. I used to have trouble shopping with others, i’d be so conscious about how much time I was taking and sometimes not having enough time to go back and fourth. I rarely shopped with friends for myself, I’d rather go out and help them buy what they were looking for and enjoy the company.

I used to tell a friend at work (I worked weekends in Harvey Nichols) about cosy outings alone. I loved talking fashion with her, I adored her style. We clicked soon as we spoke, we had a lot in common, both students who enjoyed dressing well! One lunch break, She asked me if i had ever brought from a charity shop or “vintage” items, at first, I didn’t think much of it I was like no thats not for me. She showed me her latest buys on her phone and how she wore them on nights out, I did grow curious.

My first visit to a pre-owned shop experience in Brick Lane , it opened a new world to me. it was a world of timeless pieces and character-filled finds!

One weekday, we arranged to meet in Bricklane, I was familiar with the area as I visited often but wasn’t one who explored the inner streets.

We visited a few shops that day, and I vividly remember one called Rokit. At first, I felt a little overwhelmed—the walls were lined with hanging items, low railings were packed with more treasures, and accessories were tucked away in boxes. My friend dove right in, quickly disappearing into the racks. As I wandered around, I started to notice some beautiful pieces.

I’ll admit, I had been quite ignorant about vintage items, thinking they were just worn-out clothes. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. Many were well-cared-for, cherished pieces, and some were even brand-new with tags still attached. That day, I discovered a whole new world, and I was hooked—I wanted more! Over the years, my wardrobe and style began to evolve, I invested more in Vintage and Charity shops. It was so satisfying knowing these items not only cost less but were truly one-of-a-kind. I loved that period of mylife, I felt like i’d truly found my style.

The Move , The Change

Fast forward, a few years after graduating, I settled down moved out of my den! I didn’t take much with me as I had two sisters who wore my bits so I left most items for them, just my favourite bags, a few vintage dresses, shoes etc. I did a big shop haul in Zara and brought my essentials.

When I fell pregnant, my sense of style shifted dramatically. Many of you will know that unsettling feeling of not finding anything to wear, especially when those chic, comfortable clothes no longer fit. As I prepared to cocoon my body for something so miraculous, I gravitated toward darker colors for comfort. I wasn’t one of those mums-to-be with just a neat little belly—I rounded out everywhere. Shopping became overwhelming, particularly when I had an event to attend. I struggled to understand my body shape and what suited me anymore.

Looking back, I realise much of it stemmed from my insecurities. Dressing well has always been my way of expressing myself, and I felt like I was losing that part of me. But eventually, I made peace with the changes, accepting that they weren’t forever. I reminded myself to care for my well-being and look forward to the new adventures ahead.

Moving on 10 years, and vintage shopping remains a cherished part of my life. Whether I’m browsing charity shops, shopping online, or finding new ways to breathe life into pre-loved treasures, the joy it brings me is as vibrant as ever. ❤️