Style: September 07, 2018

80 STYLE | promotion
Opportunity
knocks
Community Shop Manager Carolyn Murphy
provides some insiders’ secrets into the art of
op-shopping – and how you can help St John.
What’s the secret to shopping well in an op-shop?
Think bigger than just the item. The skirt may not be your
size, but it may be made of fantastic fabric or in a great
colour or texture. It could become a cushion cover. A
T-shirt may have a great logo or design on the front, cut it
off and stitch it onto a jacket – a one-off piece right there.
Create a look that speaks about you as an individual.
Think re-use, re-invent, revive.
What might a fashionista discover in a St John Op Shop?
She could discover a Karen Walker, World, Alexandra
Owen; a cool piece of art, furniture. Look through
everything. Open your mind to new discoveries.
Are we able to donate from our own wardrobes?
Yes, please, and thank you. We can only raise the funds
we need through your kind donations. Our shops are
only as good as you let us be. Clothing, costume jewellery,
art, shoes, handbags, hats (with upcoming races), furniture
and household items. Lincoln Road takes furniture and
household items as well as fashion, while Durham Street
is fashion only.
How are the funds used?
We run first aid in schools, youth programmes, Caring
Callers (connecting people who need a friend with people
who have time to listen), first aid courses, and, of course,
we run the ambulance service, which comes to your
aid when you are at your most vulnerable. We attend
approximately 114,500 calls in the South Island per year.
What more can we do to support St John?
You could support us by becoming a volunteer, sorting
clothes, serving in the shop, creating window displays,
pick-ups, or donating goods. We love our volunteers. We
simply could not do this without your help.
Your St John Opportunity Shops:
180 Durham Street, Christchurch, 03 353 7100 ext 3208
272 Lincoln Road, Christchurch, 03 338 2560
www.stjohn.org.nz/Shop/Opportunity-Shops