About 70 percent of my wardrobe is used clothes, or what’s more commonly known as second-hand clothes. I’m not ashamed of that but I have a friend who shuns everything second-hand. Everything he buys must be brand new. Me and my other second-hand-loving buddies would always tease him about his snobbish ways and tell him that he’s not only spending a lot more on new products all the time but also missing out on some great pieces.

I’m not the only one who has got nice books, carpets, shoes, art pieces etc which may not be brand new but are in good condition. One of the reasons I like such items is that some are really unique. You will find a genuine leather bag that no one you know has. I always feel good when I get compliments for the cool shoes or bracelet and people ask where I bought them.

I bought a scarf a couple of weeks ago and while flipping through a magazine recently, I was beyond excited when I saw a picture of Victoria Beckham wearing the same scarf! I feel the same way when I watch a movie or TV show and see one of the characters wearing something I own too. I rarely buy bags or clothes from supermarkets because everybody else does and you end up looking like you’re wearing a uniform. I would rather buy material and have a tailor make something for me.

There’s a lady who brings clothes to our office and she really has some nice pieces. Even when you don’t have cash, she’ll let you take whatever you want and then pay when you get money. Other times however, I go to the market myself because there’s a lot more to choose from and the prices are much lower.

I’ve done this for sometime so you can say I have mastered the art of picking great pieces. I never remove my clothes to try on whatever it is I’m interested in. God knows how many people have tried them on before. But l can tell what fits and what doesn’t. If it’s a top, I check for buttons and if some are missing, are they the kind that can be found in say a tailor’s shop? That determines what I take or leave. I also check for stains. I never buy anything with those unsightly armpit marks. But if it’s a food, tea or mud stain, I’ll take it because I know an overnight soak will sort it out. For skirts, pants and Jeans, I check to see that the zippers work properly.

Most times, I get a perfect fit but sometimes, they’re either too long or too wide and so need some adjustment. I usually get that done right away and once I get home, I wash and iron them and we’re good to go. I used to contemplate about the origin of these clothes. I would often think "Oh God, I’m wearing a dead woman’s clothes.” However these days, I think more along the lines of charities and donations.

Our generous friends in the West are always giving away unwanted clothes and it’s these that end up in our markets, right? Sometimes I also wonder if someone can tell that you’re wearing their clothes. For instance if I see a foreigner looking at me for extended periods, I wonder if they’re not thinking "Oh look, that’s my blouse…” That thought doesn’t last long however, especially when I see mzungus also buying second-hand items.

To be continued…
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