1. Look for bobbles and stains
“It’s really important to look properly for marks on things because I often buy something in a bit of a rush and I’ll get home and find the collar is really marked or it’s got a bit of bleach spilled on it. You have to try and work out why that person is donating it and if there’s something wrong with it.

“Quite often I’ll find something I love but it’s a bit bobbly. I’m like ‘Ooh it’s really cute’, but actually you’ll just look like you’re wearing old things. It’s a tricky balance with charity shops because someone has owned it and you want to make sure someone hasn’t owned it too well. I think it’s worth being strict with yourself about how worn clothes are, even if it’s the prettiest item in the shop.”

2. Don't look for your own size
“I would definitely say, don’t look at sizes. I buy things in all kinds of sizes because they fit differently on me and I wear them differently. I’m a UK size eight but a vintage 12, so I’ll often pick something up and think, ‘Oh no, it’s a size 12, it’ll be way too big’ – and then I can barely do it up. Sizes have changed so much over the years that you really should try on all sizes.”

3. Check menswear for jumpers and belts

Menswear sections are often great for oversized knits and classic leather belts. If you find a belt you love and it’s too big, it’s easy enough to make it fit right by adding an extra hole.

4. Feel the fabric
Charity shops have rails of clothes and it would be inefficient to go through every item. “I tend to go by fabric,” says Louise. “I'll sweep along a rail and pull out the clothes with amazing fabric. Quite often it'll be by a brand like Cos. I think it's fabrics that gives away the top brands.”

5. Only buy what you love
“If you don’t want to wear it out the shop, that day or tomorrow, then you’re probably not going to wear it. I only buy stuff that fits me and doesn’t involve losing or gaining weight to fit in it.”

Charity shopping tips from the ethical fashion blogger who rarely spends more than £1 a go on her clothes