Don’t you just hate that moment when you take something to the charity shop and a month later Vogue features it as the newest must have item? Or you give something away only to find that the old piece of tat that you were totally bored with has now skyrocketed to become one of the most sought after piece of the season?

As an avid fashionista and covert-or of large amounts of stuff, here’s a few handy tips to make sure you are buying ahead and saving money.

Now, this might sound like a stab in the dark but I have been buying ahead of the curve for years and have fine-tuned my skill to a pretty accurate art form.

Firstly, only buy things you really like and not because everyone else is wearing it. Not every trend or style is going to suit you? Have a word with yourself and be honest! If it isn’t working for your style then don’t wear it. This will ensure you are less likely to ditch said trend when the season is up.

Next check the SALE rails at the end of the sales, when most people have long since lost interest. What’s left is usually a future trend piece that no-one has even cottoned on to yet. Chances are it will be around 80-90% Off the original price and you’ll be grabbing a bargain. Again, only buy the item if you genuinely like it.

When it comes to designer pieces always buy items with the original logo or brand label or styles the house repeats season after season. This is because eventually the house will always go back to it’s core identity. So if YSL drops the Y or Celine drops it’s accent (as they did with new creative director Hedi Slimane) chances are that when he’s gone all will be right with the World again and it will be restored.

By understanding the way trends come and go, you should have a fair idea of what’s coming, one or two seasons in the future.

With the 90s/ Hype-beast trend still in full swing, look to brands that peaked around that time, that people are still bailing or dumping at a reduced cost? Brands like Tiffany (Chunky silver with padlock details); actually quite relevant or vintage Mulberry, cult pieces of Lacroix or original Versace, Moschino, Lanvin or Celine pieces. These will all have a regeneration in the next couple of seasons.

Lastly do your research. If you are buying high-priced designer seconds, make sure you visit the brands website or boutique and get every possible detail before buying anything. If you aren’t 100% sure it’s authentic DO NOT BUY IT! Happy hunting.

(All the bags and luggage in this image I have bought from either Fendi boutiques, Vintage shop Rokit Camden or Ebay)

Fox Fur Monster Bag Keyrings link below:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/New-Monster-Face-Raccoon-Fur-Pom-Pom-Keychain-Bag-Charm-Pendant-Fox-Mink-Fur/222178894818?hash=item33bae4e3e2:m:m6JX4upu2l6yWIL1CkdkLxg