Ultimate Guide to Thrifting

Thrifting is often misunderstood as either “hit-or-miss” or something you do purely to save money. In reality, shopping second-hand in thrift stores or op shops is one of the most powerful ways to reduce your environmental footprint while creating a wardrobe that feels personal, considered, and genuinely wearable.

At Heke Design, thrifting is everything. Founder Bea Lorimer has spent years working hands-on with second-hand clothing, both as an upcycler and sustainability expert. She believes the key to successful op shopping is approach, not luck. As Bea says, thrifting is less about impulse and more about intention—knowing how to look, where to look, and when to trust your instincts.

Why Thrifting Matters in Aotearoa

Globally, the fashion industry produces around 92 million tonnes of textile waste each year, with less than 1% of clothing recycled into new garments. In New Zealand alone, an estimated 180,000 tonnes of clothing and textiles end up in landfill annually—roughly 34kg per person each year.

Choosing second-hand clothing interrupts that cycle. Every thrifted garment represents resources already spent—water, energy, labour—that don’t need to be duplicated. Bea explains:

“When you buy second-hand, you’re not just avoiding fast fashion. You’re extending the life of something that already exists, which is one of the most effective sustainability actions an individual can take.”

Thrifting also encourages slower, more thoughtful consumption. Rather than chasing trends, it helps people build wardrobes that evolve gradually and reflect their own style. For readers wanting to understand the environmental impact of reusing garments, you can also explore what upcycling is and how it differs from recycling.

How to Shop Second-Hand with Confidence

One of the most important mindset shifts is understanding that op shops change constantly. New stock arrives almost daily, so Bea recommends short, regular visits rather than occasional marathon trips:

“You won’t find something incredible every time, but the more often you go, the better your odds are.”

Going in with a loose plan also helps. Having a general idea—like needing a versatile jacket, long-sleeve top, or summer dress—keeps you focused while staying open to unexpected finds. Bea encourages shoppers to experiment with colours, prints, and silhouettes they might not usually choose.

Practical preparation makes a big difference. Many op shops don’t have fitting rooms, so wearing easy layers like bike shorts or a fitted top allows you to try items on over your clothing. A small compact mirror is invaluable for checking fit from all angles. Knowing what can be easily repaired is another advantage—simple fixes like hems, buttons, or small seam repairs are often inexpensive, whereas major reshaping should be factored into your buying decision.

When you find something you love, Bea’s advice is simple:

“If it fits well, can be easily mended, and you can picture yourself wearing it, take it home. Second-hand pieces are one-offs and they rarely wait around.”

For beginners who want to try combining thrifting with creative projects, check out the Beginner’s Guide to Upcycling and see how small interventions can make second-hand clothing feel new again.

Thrifting as Part of a Slower Fashion Mindset

Shopping second-hand is about more than individual pieces—it’s a shift away from disposability. Extending the life of clothing by even nine months can reduce its carbon, water, and waste footprint by around 20–30%, while buying used instead of new can lower a garment’s carbon footprint by more than 80%.

Bea believes thrifting reconnects people with the value of clothing:

“When you slow down and choose thoughtfully, you start to appreciate garments for their quality, construction, and longevity. That’s where real style lives."

If you want to explore how high-quality natural fibres are transformed through upcycling, take a look at why I upcycle merino wool.

Ready to see examples of thoughtfully reworked garments? Visit the Heke Design Collection where each piece begins its life pre-loved and is reimagined for long-term wear.