“The staff are so friendly and ready to lend a helping hand.”
Rhianna Said is St Christopher’s charity shop obsessed. Being lucky enough to have two of our shops near to her home in Petts Wood, the 24-year-old loves to spend her time browsing the racks for hidden gems.
She paused her shopping for a moment to tell us all about her best buys!
How and why did you start shopping at St Christopher’s?
In 2022 I decided I wanted to start shopping more ethically, I already loved using Vinted and Depop, but I would rather the money go to a good cause that helps so many. There are lots of charity shops where I live, but the two St Christopher’s shops in Petts Wood are by far the best shopping experience in my opinion. The clothes are all organised by colour and type so it’s easy to pick out pieces I love. The staff are so friendly and ready to lend a helping hand.
What keeps you coming back to St Christopher’s again and again?
I think the variety of clothing and accessories is absolutely fantastic, I can’t remember a time where I left the store without buying something.
What does shopping at St Christopher’s mean to you?
To me it’s simple really, I can buy well-made, good quality, second-hand clothing and support a charity that provides amazing care to so many in our community when they need it most. It’s a win-win.
“St Christopher’s has made it easy for me to become a sustainable shopper.”
What is your favourite St Christopher’s shop and why?
Petts Wood, on Queensway. This is where I have found some of my favourite clothes and visit on a weekly basis.
What is your favourite item you have bought from St Christopher’s?
A floral embroidered jacket, I had been searching for one on Vinted for a really long time and couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the shop assistant hanging it on the shelf as I walked in. Right place at the right time!
One I love to wear in summer is a 100% silk tiered top, it’s so colourful and delicate. Another one that’s now a staple in my wardrobe is a real leather black zip up waistcoat, I’ve managed to style it so many different ways. Last year, I found a sparkly top that was perfect for New Year’s Eve – with bronze and gold sequins.
“I can’t remember a time where I left the store without buying something.”
What items do you always look out for when shopping in St Christopher’s?
Bags most definitely! I think I have bought over 50 bags from St Christopher’s now. You can never have too many accessories.
Have you always been passionate about sustainability and how has St Christopher’s changed your view on sustainable shopping?
St Christopher’s has made it easy for me to become a sustainable shopper, I don’t feel like I need to rummage through racks of poor-quality clothes to find a hidden gem. There is a ton of treasure every time I visit. One of my goals for this year is to learn how to use a sewing machine. I want to be able to restore clothes if they aren’t perfect, but also be able to buy whatever I like and make it fit me.
Lastly, if you could describe St Christopher’s charity shops in three words, what would they be?
Fun, reliable and meaningful.
This interview was originally published in issue 5 of our Connect magazine. To read the full magazine, or to sign up to receive future editions, please click here.
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