My name is Jen and I’m addicted to buying things second hand.
There, I said it. It’s out there. My confession. I’ve finally admitted it to myself, which they say is the first stage of recovery. Although I’m not sure I want to recover, especially when there are things like this to be found in charity shop, car boot sales, vintage fairs and eBay listings…
Definitely my favourite find this week. I bought this 1960s vintage oak desk on eBay for £30 and collected it on Monday (which is a story in itself – a long drive on windy country roads, a VERY tight squeeze into the back of the car and an increasingly harassed boyfriend…). It’s beautiful and huge and I love it. I’m now looking out for a suitably 60s-style chair to go with it. Oh, and the Union Jack cushion was £1 from a car boot sale.
I’ve been looking for a Vogue mirror since I saw Fleur’s, so when I spotted this hanging on the wall of a charity shop I beelined like I’ve never beelined before. A bit of research tells me this stunning mirror is Art Deco style, dating from the 1970s. It was £9.
Since I picked up these Hornsea Pottery goodies, I’ve been on the lookout for more of the retro-patterned pieces. These beauty is as groovy as they come, and at £5 she was destined to come home with me and keep my pasta safe.
Armed with a simple staple gun, I now fancy myself as a bit of a furniture restorer. My latest project is this cute wicker chest, picked up at a car boot for £3. I’ll use the leftover fabric from my dining chairs to cover it and finish it off with a bit of white lace trim. Lawrence L-B got nothing on me.
I’ve been drawn to second hand homewares more than clothing recently, but nothing will stand between me and a chunky knit. Or three. The stripy jumper from Whistles for £3, cream cropped jumper for £3.50 and grey Merino wool cardigan from Gap for £2 are being packed away until September.
Spotting this crochet French Connection dress, brand new with tags for £6 was one of those I-have-no-idea-how-to-wear-it-but-I-can’t-leave-it-behind moments. It has no lining, so it’s basically just a knitted sheath, presumably to wear over a bikini on a sun-drenched beach. I’m lacking in both the bikini and beach departments though, so I think this is a case for a plain jersey dress and some flat leather sandals.
Bank Holiday Weekends always mean extra car boot sales, so weather permitting I’ll be up early and out getting my fix tomorrow, too. It’s a habit I just can’t break…
Going second hand shopping this weekend? Report back with your bargains in the comments below!
You got so much good stuff! I especially love that Vogue mirror, it’s gorgeousss xx
Some gorgeous stuff Jen, I’d say this is a good addiction, one to be kept. 🙂
The desk is gorgeous and I LOVE that mirror.
xx
such good finds! especially those jumpers…
Annah xx
girlandbird.blogspot.com
Love the Lloyd Loom chest.
Love everything you found!
I LOVE that desk, once I have a bigger place I can’t wait to start scouting out big bits of furniture! It was such a bargain at £30 🙂 x
Fab finds, love the desk.
Sadie xx
Lovely desk, and thanks, now I’m looking out for Vogue mirrors too – like I don’t have enough on my lust list as it is!
That fabric looks so, so cute. And the lace trims? Adorable!
x Michelle | thefeatherden.net
I adore everything you have found, especially the lovely desk! There is nothing quite like shopping this way, never knowing what you might find…. I could never go back to the high street now! xx
Jen, your posts always make me green with envy! £30 for that desk is an absolute bargain! I’m so jealous of the fact you have your own place and can decorate it however you wish, I literally cannot wait until I can do this as well, though I expect my home won’t look nearly as stylish as yours!
I can think of worse additions, just think of the pennies you’re saving, and doing your bit for the environment by recycling too. More people should open their minds to the wonders of the charity shop.
Oh Jen, once again you turn me green with envy!
That desk is gorgeous! You find such bargins!
Stacey x
Buying second hand is definitely better than buying new expensive pieces! I love the Vogue Mirror. That was definitely a great find.
I would love to be able to pick items like you – that desk is amazing! Love your finds!
xx
I love that your desk has drawers AND extending flaps! (as well as only costing £30!) Although I do enjoy the odd Ikea visit, second hand furniture is way better. Far more character and generally better quality. Can’t wait to start kitting out my (still imaginary) house.
Along with Mucha posters those Vogue mirrors were all the rage when I was a teenager. The desk looks great.
xxx
Wow you have so many great buys! I’m really impressed with you. I love second hand buying and I recently did a little post about my finds, I found the cutest turquoise blue 1960’s suitcase , haha love it xx :o)
I absolutely love everything you buy, every time! I really love your aesthetic, your home looks so beautiful, and all the second hand finds make it so individual.
Ah, you have found so many lovely things. I adore that gorgeous desk!
i love all of the bargains you picked up, as always. the desk is perfect, plus you know how much i adore the vogue mirror! xx
Completely adore the Vogue mirror – I haven’t seen them before but will be keeping a look out. Also the desk is a steal!!!
I love the bargainous dress, maybe a long vest to go under it? new look have some that go past your bum at a bargain price of £6!!! lol. i think it would look amazin with 70’s wedges and a big floppy sun hat!