Designer Op Shop is one of our favourite places to shop in Braddon. For those who already know of the boutique and also for those who may be new to Canberra, there are always pre-loved treasures to be found among the many shelves.
We spoke to owners, Taylor and Sharyn Pitsilos, to get a bit of an update on what’s been happening at Designer Op Shop so far this year.
1. Designer Op Shop has been open for over two years now and is loved by many Canberrans. What’s in store for the boutique in 2015?
Throughout 2015 we will be striving to maintain (and excel!) at what we do best: stocking a high standard of pre-loved designer clothing at affordable prices. We love to find our clientele pieces that are unique and not easy to discover in Canberra. Also, we’re aiming to provide a stylish and eclectic collection of vintage furniture for our customers.
2. What was the biggest highlight for Designer Op Shop in 2014.
2014 was a big year for us! We moved location from 28 to 18 Lonsdale St in Braddon, which is a much better store with a lovely ambiance. It’s great to be to settled in a more permanent location.
3. Have you ever come across a second hand garment that went straight to your closet instead of the boutique?
Guilty…We love fashion. What can we say? Some items are simply too good to pass up!
4. What are the most important things you look for when sourcing second hand designer garments?
It’s really important to ensure each piece is great quality, in season, excellent condition and clean! To us, age or brand of the garment isn’t everything. If we know someone will love it, we’ll buy it.
5. Who is your core demographic?
Our demographic is surprisingly a wide range of people – we believe we have something for everyone! The majority of our customers are women who regularly pop in to see what’s new, who know they will always find a quality purchase.
6. What are three words that describe Designer Op Shop (besides the name).
Vintage. Homewares. Fashion.
7. Who are your style icons?
Rachel Zoe can do no wrong. She proves to people that vintage is stylish and quality pre loved clothing deserves to be worn. For an all time favourite, we’d have to say Coco Chanel.
8. Where else is your favourite place to shop in Canberra?
We actually buy around 80% of our own clothes second-hand or vintage from local op-shops and through buying for our store. Other than that we love brands like Zimmerman and Sabatini from David Jones, and also we’re thankful for Canberra’s Sass & Bide store.
Thanks Taylor and Sharyn!
Keep your eyes peeled for an exciting project with Mikayla Thomas – the 2014 Face of OutInCanberra – and Designer Op Shop.
