Charity shop chic booms amid credit crunch

More people than ever are bargain-hunting in charity shops as the current economic climate forces them to become more frugal with their finances.

Recent figures released by Charity Finance reported that charity shops have seen their profits increase by 7.4 per cent on last year's figures, bringing in over £100 million in total.

This is more than double the increase of 3.6 per cent seen last year.

David Moir, head of policy and public affairs at the Association of Charity Shops, said that charity shops are appealing partly because of their endorsement by celebrities, but also because their repeat customers know what high quality, low cost items can be found within.

"Quite simply, cash-strapped consumers are looking for value and charity shops combine quality in their second hand goods with affordability," he commented.

Spencer Madan-Meyers, evening wear style adviser at House of Fraser, recently gave anyone looking for an affordable evening gown some advice on how to get a charity shop bargain.

She advised readers of the Independent that location is key and that bargain hunters should seek second hand shops in affluent areas for the best cast-offs.

Ms Madan-Meyers added that vintage and second hand shopping is a great way to ensure you have a one-off piece while not breaking the bank.