Explore stories from our community, meet the volunteers behind the finds, and discover how pre-loved fashion creates real impact. Plus, stay up to date with new arrivals, style inspiration, and sustainable shopping tips.
- Home
- News
Wheregoodgoesfurther
Fashion
News
Vinnies Finds First Birthday Party
Last Thursday evening, despite the pouring Sydney rain, friends, fashion lovers, and sustainability advocates gathered at Vinnies Finds headquarters in Stanmore to celebrate something worth getting a little wet for: one full year of Vinnies Finds giving pre-loved fashion a second life online while raising vital funds for the people who need it most. Vinnies Finds, the online op-shop platform from Vinnies NSW, launched to make second-hand shopping accessible for people across the country. It combines fashion, reduces the amount of clothes in landfill, and social impact, with funds raised going directly to programs and services supporting people experiencing poverty and hardship across NSW. A Night in the Warehouse The night kicked off with guests mingling, chatting, and trawling through rack after rack of pre-loved pieces, from designer labels to vintage finds. Corporate-ready blazers sat alongside effortless going-out looks and holiday-ready outfits, each piece telling the story of where fashion meets purpose. Many guests arrived in standout thrifted outfits, sparking conversations throughout the night. It quickly became clear that the community Vinnies Finds has built over the past year is just as vibrant and expressive as the curated collection on the warehouse floor. Voices of Circular Fashion A standout moment of the night was an engaging panel discussion on circular fashion, featuring leading voices across sustainability, social enterprise, and policy. We heard from Phil Coyte, Executive Director of Commercial Enterprise, Retail and Fundraising at Vinnies NSW, Lottie Dalziel, Founder of Banish, and the Hon. Dr Sarah Kaine, Member of the NSW Legislative Council and Chair of the Standing Committee on Social Issues. Together, they explored the intersections of environmental responsibility, community impact, and the real-world outcomes Vinnies Finds helps deliver. Their insights grounded the evening in both urgency and optimism, reminding guests of the broader purpose behind every purchase. Runway Ready The evening's grand finale was a fashion showcase featuring standout Vinnies Finds pieces. Three talented stylists worked with members of the Vinnies NSW team to curate standout looks from the platform’s collection. The result was a runway of pre-loved fashion in motion from polished workwear, effortless evening looks, and versatile outfits for every moment in between. It was a tangible reminder of what the platform exists to prove: that pre-loved fashion can be exceptional quality, beautifully styled, and appropriate for every chapter of your week. The hidden gems, as always, were hiding in plain sight. Each guest left with a party bag in hand and, we suspect, a few new favourite pieces in mind. One Year On A year in, Vinnies Finds is only just getting started. The platform has shown a strong appetite for curated second-hand fashion online and proven that pre-loved shopping can be just as seamless, exciting, and stylish as anything on the high street. Vinnies Finds closed its first year with its strongest sales month yet, capping off a record-breaking May and building strong momentum into year two. The future is looking very well-dressed indeed. To everyone who braved the rain to celebrate the birthday: thank you. To everyone who has shopped, shared, and supported Vinnies Finds over the past twelve months: thank you. And to those joining us for year two, we can’t wait to show you what’s next.
Jun 04, 2026
News
Sustainability
Happy first birthday, Vinnies Finds
There's something worth celebrating in the Vinnies NSW family this year. Our online pre-loved fashion platform, Vinnies Finds, has turned one and what a first year it's been. Like any good first year of life, it's been full of milestones, a few surprises, and plenty of reasons to feel proud. Created at the right time Vinnies Finds didn't arrive by accident. It was created because the way Australians like to shop has changed and Vinnies NSW paid close attention. The Australian recommerce market is expected to reach USD$6.75 billion by 2029 and is currently growing annually by 9.6%. Shoppers are actively choosing pre-loved items, and they're doing it online. Australia Post's 2025 eCommerce Report found that 65% of Gen Z and Millennials plan to buy more second-hand goods over the next five years, a shift driven by both sustainability and cost-of-living pressures. Vinnies NSW saw these trends and acted. Vinnies Finds launched in late May 2025 and brought quality, character, and the community of our stores into the online space. Vinnies Finds made pre-loved fashion accessible to shoppers across the state and country. First steps? More like a sprint. Vinnies Finds didn't crawl. It ran. Our shoppers clearly have style and the numbers prove it. Since May 2025, the platform has sold more than 53,000 items. The Vinnies Finds community has discerning taste. The most-searched categories were bags, boots, dresses, jewellery, and jackets. The most-searched brands spanned Country Road, Gorman, and Nike through to Gucci, Chanel, and Prada. And the quickest online sale? Two minutes. The standout pieces from year one reflected the remarkable quality of what passes through Vinnies NSW stores every day – an Yves Saint Laurent crossbody bag, Céline knee-high boots, a Christian Dior jacket, and a vintage Burberry trench coat. Each one found a new owner. Each item has told a story of a donation that found exactly the right home. Growing up green We’re also proud of what didn’t happen in year one, as a result of the creation of Vinnies Finds: 53 tonnes of clothing and accessories didn't go to landfill. Instead, these items were recycled. To put this figure in perspective, 53 tonnes is the weight of an Airbus 220-300 aircraft. Every item that has been sold on Vinnies Finds has been a garment given a second life. It has been re-worn, re-loved, and kept in circulation rather than discarded. In a country where fashion waste remains a significant environmental challenge, that's a huge feat. Shopping with purpose Here is where Vinnies Finds becomes something more than a fashion platform. Every purchase made on Vinnies Finds has been reinvested directly into Vinnies NSW programs and services supporting people experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, and financial hardship across the state. Right now, that support has never been more needed. A recent YouGov survey commissioned by Vinnies NSW found that more than half of Australians are cutting back on food, medicine, and other essentials just to keep a roof over their heads. Calls to Vinnies Assist NSW have doubled since March 2025. The cost-of-living crisis is not easing and for many people, Vinnies is the call they make when there is nowhere else to turn. When a shopper buys a pre-loved dress or a vintage coat on Vinnies Finds, they're not just making a sustainable choice. They are contributing to emergency relief, housing support, and the community programs that help people find their footing again. Vinnies Finds has had a wonderful first year of life. We couldn't be prouder and we can't wait to see what it does next. Celebrate our first birthday, shop the best of Vinnies Finds.
May 28, 2026
Fashion
Sustainability
From Op Shop to Aisle: Rachel’s $70 Vera Wang Wedding Dress Find
It was a rainy Saturday morning in March 2025. Rachel and her then-fiancée Courtney were at the back of a long queue outside Vinnies Waverley, sheltering under awnings with a coffee and a bridesmaid in tow. They had no idea what they were about to find inside the Vinnies Wedding Expo. Meet Rachel Rachel is an economist and a committed thrifter. She and Courtney got engaged in the spirit of the marriage equality vote. So, when it came to the wedding, buying new was never part of the plan. “Neither of us were ever going to buy a dress new, for budget reasons, but also just because there are already so many wedding dresses in the world.” They’d tried a traditional bridal boutique once. It wasn’t for them: “It was just like, ‘which one of you people is getting married?’, ‘tell us about the dress you’ve always imagined wearing.’ I was like, wow, there are so many assumptions in that that really don’t apply to us.” The Vinnies Wedding Expo was a different world entirely. No bridezillas here Rachel had heard rumours: chaos, competition, every bride for herself. What she found was strangers cheering each other out the door, fast friends made in the queue, and an inclusive and collaborative experience. “Bridezillas aren’t at Vinnies. These were nice people who were really excited about getting married and really into ethical fashion. It was a really diverse group, and everyone was excited for everyone else.” The dress that found her Rachel hadn't banked on walking out with a dress. Then a fellow shopper called out from the lower floor, offering one that didn't fit her. “I put it on and it just fit perfectly. And I was like, well, I can’t not...” The price tag: $70. What Rachel didn't know yet was that she'd just picked up a Vera Wang wedding gown, a fact she only discovered at the tailor. “As I tried it on, she said, ‘Hang on, this is a Vera Wang wedding dress. How much did you buy it for?’ And she said, ‘You know it’s worth $10,000.’ And I was like, wow. Well, I was never going to spend that.” The dress needed a little love, but Rachel was happy to give it. A tear repaired, lace repurposed, and layers of tulle cut away. Each tweak made it less someone else's dress and more unmistakably hers. “I have this image burned in my memory of holding up the skirt in front of the mirror at the tailor and she’s just cutting layers and layers of tulle out of this Vera Wang. The story is so ridiculous now that it just had to be THE dress.” Rachel and Courtney married in January this year at Athol Hall, Sydney. Impact Wedding outfits are too often worn once before being discarded. By choosing pre-loved, Rachel joined a growing movement of couples making their big day both affordable while reducing textile waste and keeping beautiful pieces in circulation. And when Rachel's done with it, her dress will go back to Vinnies too. "I love that it had a story and I love that I can pass it on as well." Rachel also loved the fact that she was giving back. "Weddings are so much money, and so much of it goes to really commercial places. If I'm going to spend the most I've ever spent on a single item of clothing, I want it to be an impactful choice." Funds raised through the Vinnies Wedding Expo will directly support Vinnies NSW programs and services which help people experiencing housing insecurity, homelessness, and financial hardship across the state. Find your wedding outfit at the Vinnies Wedding Expo 2026 📅 Saturday 18 April – Friday 24 April 📍 Vinnies Waverley, 255/259 Bronte Rd, Waverley NSW 2024 More info here
Apr 09, 2026
Behind The Finds
Fashion
Behind the Finds: Jana Bartolo
Hi Finders, I am Jana Bartolo and I’m a Sydney-based fashion stylist and creative consultant. Glad you’re here for the next edition of Behind the Finds! Last time, we met the wonderful Steven, Vinnies NSW’s fun and vibrant eCommerce-Marketing Coordinator. This time, I’m sharing a peek into my world and showing you how I fit into the Vinnies Finds puzzle. About Me A bit about what I do... I’m a fashion stylist that works across editorial, commercial, and celebrity projects. My background is rooted in storytelling through clothing; whether that’s styling athletes, musicians or celebrities, I’m always thinking about movement, confidence, and how clothes make someone feel in their body. My Style Three words to describe my style: Sport-infused, expressive, intentional. My five wardrobe essentials: 1. A great white t-shirt. 2. Something bright, bold, or eccentric (I am often known to always have a wild card item that can be layered). 3. A versatile pair of sneakers. 4. A relaxed pair of trousers. 5. An oversized blazer or a coat with character; something vintage or second-hand that tells a story. Sustainable Style My top tips for building a more sustainable wardrobe: I’m always asking, can this piece live multiple lives? I love mixing high and low, new and old, and encouraging clients to embrace op-shopping and vintage sourcing. Start with what you already own, learn how to style pieces differently, invest in good basics, and don’t be afraid of second-hand. Choose well and let your wardrobe evolve over time rather than chasing constant newness. Vinnies Finds Love How I fit in the Vinnies Finds puzzle I joined Vinnies Finds for the Summer/Fall shoot, helping show how pre-loved pieces can feel modern, wearable, and elevated. I loved finding so many gold mines! Working with pre-loved pieces forces you to think differently and be more intuitive. Why I love op-shopping at Vinnies The sense of discovery and thrill of the chase! I’m always drawn to designer and premium pieces. Vinnies Finds is one of those places where you can uncover special pieces ready for a second home at such a good price. I love finding items that feel elevated yet wearable and styling them in a modern way so they can be enjoyed again and again. I also love that shopping at Vinnies NSW has a bigger purpose, supporting the community while building a wardrobe that’s personal and full of character.
Mar 27, 2026
News
International Women's Day: Style with Purpose
Hi Finders, International Women's Day (IWD) is a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of women everywhere, but it is also a reminder that many women in our communities are still facing significant challenges. At Vinnies Finds, every purchase helps fund the work of St Vincent de Paul Society NSW - including the critical support we provide to women experiencing hardship, domestic violence, and homelessness across our communities. That means when you shop our preloved, you're not just finding something special for your wardrobe, you are supporting women who deserve dignity, safety, and a fresh start. This IWD, we want you to know: your shopping at Vinnies is never just shopping. It's a hand extended to another woman who needs it most. Pieces that Empower Find pieces that make a statement for your style and support the women supported through Vinnies NSW programs and services. Click to explore! Bold Bags Walk with Purpose Shine & Support From roomy totes to stylish crossbody bags, these handbags are ready to carry her style. From comfy sneakers to bold heels, these shoes are ready to make her stand out. From sparkling earrings to statement rings, these treasures let her shine bright. Press Play for Some Seriously Good Advice This International Women's Day we asked our staff one simple question: What’s the best piece of advice you have received from a female mentor? From words of encouragement to lessons in leadership, their answers highlight the impact women have in guiding, supporting, and inspiring others. With love, The Vinnies Finds Team
Mar 08, 2026
Behind The Finds
Fashion
Behind the Finds: Steven
Hi Finders, I’m Steven and I’m the eCommerce-Marketing Coordinator at Vinnies NSW. Welcome back to Behind the Finds, a blog where you get to meet the people working behind the scenes at Vinnies Finds. Let’s get into it! About Me A bit about what I do... I sit in the marketing team and work on the Vinnies Finds platform. I work on our paid ads, from the Meta ads you see on Facebook and Instagram to Google Search ads you see online, and I also work on the emails you receive. (Steven at the Stanmore warehouse) Vinnies Finds Love The thrill of the find (and doing good). I love op-shopping, especially on Vinnies Finds! There are new products uploaded every day, and you never know what unique item you’re going to find next. Also, at the end of the day, knowing that the profits go back into community programs and that my purchase helps someone is really rewarding. My Style Three words to describe my style: Classic. Colourful. Unpredictable. I’m really into preppy style. You can never go wrong with a classic shirt or jumper, paired with chinos or jeans. It’s easy to dress up or down and always feels put together. (Steven outside of the Stanmore warehouse) Sustainable Style My top tips for building a more sustainable wardrobe: Avoid fast fashion brands if you can and shop Vinnies Finds! Look out for high-quality pieces that you can keep for a long time. At Vinnies Finds I have found some beautiful pieces like vintage Ralph Lauren ties and sneakers that are brand new. Shop this Finders collection Like my style? I’ve put together a curated collection on Vinnies Finds that reflects my approach to fashion: colourful, classic, and all about great finds. Shop the collection now.
Feb 27, 2026
Behind The Finds
Fashion
Behind the Finds: Donny
Hi Finders, I’m Donny Galella and I’m an Aussie fashion stylist. Welcome to Behind the Finds! A blog where you’ll find out more about the people who help bring Vinnies Finds to life. I’m kicking things off, so today you’ll get to know me a little better and my love for styling, thrifting, and making fashion accessible for everyone. Let’s dive in! About Me A bit about my journey... I’ve been working as a stylist for 15 years, from red carpets at the Oscars and Cannes to helping everyday Aussies feel fabulous. My goal has always been the same: help people feel confident and fabulous no matter their budget or where they shop or thrift! Three words to describe my style Tailored, creative, and energetic. (Donny at Stanmore Warehouse) Sustainable Style How sustainability shapes my styling What I love about Vinnies is the sustainable side of styling. You don’t need a big budget, it’s good for the planet, and it always feels like a TREASURE HUNT! I love walking in, searching through everything, and discovering something amazing and unique for myself or a client. We all need to be more sustainable, and thrifting plays a huge role by giving clothes a longer life cycle. Vinnies makes it easier by allowing clothes to live longer and by supporting the community at the same time. You’re not just shopping sustainably: you’re helping others, which is phenomenal. My top tips for building a more sustainable wardrobe: 1. Look at your current habits Where are you shopping? Are you consuming fast fashion? If so, think about ways to reduce that. 2. Think about where else you could shop If you’re not already going to Vinnies Shops, start giving them a try. Thrifting has changed a lot over the last couple of years, with stores now feeling fresh, clean, and genuinely enjoyable to explore. 3. Re-wear, recycle, and repurpose Look at the pieces in your wardrobe that you haven’t worn for a while. Try to wear them again or donate them to Vinnies so they can have a second life. (Donny's Styling Session at Stanmore) Vinnies Finds Love My favourite Vinnies Shop The new Penrith Mega Shop! I’m blown away by how big it is, how much choice there is, and how much new stock is available. The quality is also impressive. I’ve already found Aussie designer brands like Gorman and Saba, plus great pieces from Zara. It’s also great to see fast-fashion items making their way back in. Penrith Mega Shop is a must visit! Shop this Finders collection Like my style? I’ve put together a curated collection on Vinnies Finds that reflects my approach to fashion: confident, considered, and all about great finds. Shop the collection now.
Feb 25, 2026
Fashion
Meet Joie: The Ex-Fashion Insider Making Style More Sustainable
Joie, a Vinnies community worker, shares her shift from fashion to ethical shopping, loving op-shops for sustainability, purpose, and unique finds.
Jul 24, 2025
Fashion
Meet Fede: Disability Advocate, Vintage Lover, Vinnies Icon
Welcome to our new series, Friends of Vinnies Finds, where we profile our beautiful customers! Over the series, we’ll introduce you to some of our most creative and passionate friends, both new and old, to discuss their love of op-shopping and their ideas about sustainable style. Federica (Fede) kicks us off in colourful, unmissable style. Hailing from Latina, Italy, this vibrant young woman is a powerful advocate for people with disability and people from diverse communities. Fede is also a champion for eco-fashion with a knack for fusing futuristic, modern tailoring with classic, proud retro pieces to create an effervescent style that is 100% bold and 100% her own. Tell us a little about yourself, Fede… My name is Federica. I am Italian but moved to Australia following an ACTUAL dream, 12 years ago. See? Sleeping is good for you! Sydney is my home now. And how do we know each other? I work for Vinnies in the Disability and Inclusion Team. I am part of the Vinnies Rainbow Pride Network and the People with Disability Employee Network. Can you tell us about your favourite Vinnies find? So many to choose from! The one I am most drawn to is a painting ($20) of three people, one of whom has a chicken head. They are sitting around a table. I love looking at the scene and making up scenarios of what is going on. My current theory is that they have pulled off a bank heist and the chicken person is the architect of the plan. Amazing. What is it you love about op-shopping? I absolutely love the variety and uniqueness of objects and of clothes. Everything is a little treasure waiting to be found. It also makes me feel less guilty about consuming, as second-hand is one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly ways to shop. So true. What are your go-to Vinnies shops? My favourite two shops are Campsie and Rozelle. Very different styles, sizes, looks. So many possibilities! Great tips, Fede. Lastly, how do you feel about Vinnies evolving into online shopping? I cannot wait. My life is busy, and I am constantly on the go. Having the option of being able to op-shop online cuts down on travel, and makes shopping more accessible for everyone, anytime. I am very excited, bring it on!
Jul 15, 2025
