Hi Finders,

I'm Lauren Hussey-Berlin, and I'm the Store Manager at the Vinnies Elizabeth Street Outlet Shop in the city.

Welcome back to Behind the Finds, a blog where you get to meet the people working behind the scenes at Vinnies NSW.

About Me

My story

Style has always been in my blood. My dad was a fashion stylist who shopped at car boots and charity stores or would simply sew something himself (he'd spot a look in Vogue and just create it). I've inherited his love for clothes, which can be a problem when there's always something new to style!

A bit about what I do...

I run our Elizabeth Street outlet store, which is an exciting new concept for Vinnies NSW – we've only been an outlet since December! Everything in my store is under $10 (excluding electricals), final sale. Seriously, it's worth a visit. 

What I Love About My Job: The People and Impact

The highlight of my job is hands down the interaction with customers and understanding why they're making the purchases they are. Whether someone is adding something fresh to their wardrobe, hunting for an outfit for a night out, or they've spotted a dress for $5 and decided to treat themselves. I love those conversations. I've met designers buying pieces to upcycle, people trying their hand at sewing, and those who simply want something that slots perfectly into what they already own.

And knowing that every purchase has a real social and environmental impact makes it all the more meaningful. A lot of people don't realise their shopping is actively helping the community and when you tell them, you can see it genuinely means something to them.

My Style

Three words to describe my style: Chameleon. Mood-driven. Magpie. 

Chameleon, because I can go from a double or triple denim moment one day to fully dressed up the next. Mood-driven, because what I wear really does depend on how I'm feeling. And magpie because I love a sparkle and I love a stud. I'd rather be the most overdressed person in the room than underdressed, every time.

Sustainable Style: My Tips for a Wardrobe That Works

First, work out your personal style. It's really about feeling comfortable, because when you feel comfortable, you feel confident and that shows.

Second, challenge a friend. Hand them $20, give them a brief and let them shop for you. Because everyone has a different eye and someone who knows you will always have your best interest at heart. (We challenge you to style an outfits for finds under $20 too!)

The goal is finding pieces that slot into what you already have. That way you'll actually wear them, care for them, and get the most out of every purchase. And at Vinnies Finds prices, you really can't go wrong.