As the recession bites, most of us have had to reduce our fashion spending. However London is not short of good credit-crunch addresses where one can be a little bit extravagant, albeit on a budget. Just head to the British Red Cross in Chelsea, a charity shop so well supplied that even Bob Geldof is often spotted there hunting for a bargain…
- Because it specialises in designer clothes and accessories and in quality vintage (you might even be lucky enough to find some haute-couture).
- Because the proceeds from the sales go towards the Red Cross so you are doing a good deed as well as saving money.
- Because the area is full of well-off individuals and celebrities who regularly donate their almost new Chanels, Louis Vuittons and Yves Saint-Laurents.
- Because it is full of brand new stock donated by generous designers including Manolo Blahnik and Paul Smith, who often deliver pieces from their collections. Recent examples include a Smythson “Nancy” bag on sale for £300 (rather than the usual £700) and a Vivienne Westwood dress for £150 (originally priced at £1,400).
- Because it was totally refurbished in April 2007 and offers a light and spacious area for Fashion victims in search of bargains.Because its manager Cathy Shimell has been working in fashion since the 60’s (at Biba, Harrods and Fenwicks) and has a real eye for beautiful fashion pieces.
Advice
- As with all charity shops, the amount and quality of its stock varies from day to day, so it is important to go there often in order to clinch the best bargains. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find anything on your first visit: your second one will probably be better.
- Cathy Shimell organises special “designer” and “vintage” evenings once every three months, for which she keeps the best pieces: so ask to be added to her guest list when you visit the shop.
British Red Cross, 67 Old Church St, SW3 (Sloane Square)
