As a child, I remember sneaking into my parents’ bedroom to raid their wardrobe.

Now a little older, I still may take possession of my dad’s favourite flannelette shirt and my mum’s best double-breasted coat, but I have since discovered stores like the Salvos.

With clothes, shoes and accessories, these stores are a dress-up and fashion enthusiast’s dream.

There is no denying the thrill you get from making something old new again. 

It requires imagination, finesse and a whole lot of fun.

National Op Shop Week is the perfect opportunity to give it a go. The week runs from Thursday, August 24, and it’s not only about uncovering a treasure-trove of goodies, it is also about making a difference.

Charity op shops play an important role in Australia and particularly on the South Coast.

The amount of work the volunteers do to help run these stores, sort through clothes, household items and more is unbelievable.

They are the gears behind the organisation which provides community services such as aged care, drug and alcohol abuse counselling, crisis and support accommodation, youth support and more.

By donating and purchasing goods from stores like the Salvos you are helping your community.

When I was asked to dress up at the Salvos store to promote National Op Shop Week I jumped at it.

Not just because my inner child was jumping for joy, but because it was my way of helping out my community which I believe in so much.

Plus I managed to pick up some great bargains.

So as much as I hate to admit it, my parents and grandparents had style and I will be shopping in op shops to help my community and my inner fashion tragic forever more.

Jessica Long