SLOW fashion and second-hand shopping have seen an incredible rise in popularity over the past years.
And Colchester city centre has just the right places for anyone looking for pre-loved pieces and bargains.
With great ranges of clothes for men, women and children, there is always something to be found.
Here are the top-rated stores which are worth a visit on your next shopping trip and what makes them special
Havens Hospice in the High Street offers a great range of glass wear, waiting to be rehomed.
The shop also has an online shop, where you can get your hands on brand-new designer wear.
The store is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.
The Dog Trust is housed in Trinity Street and another store where you can find the odd designer piece.
The lovely boutique has a big section dedicated to children’s clothes, accessories and games. It is also worth a visit for all dog owners, as the shop carries handy, dog-oriented products.
The Dog Trust has opened a dog foodbank, collecting for animals in need and is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sundays 10am to 4pm.
St Helena recently gave its store in Culver Street East a revamp and shines in a new splendour.
This is the address for everyone looking for yarn, or to stock up their bookshelves, as the store has an almost library-sized book section.
The shop is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm.
Those looking for rare vintage pieces should visit the St Helena vintage store in Sir Isaac’s Walk, open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm.
Located in Head Street is the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance charity shop which probably has the biggest range of sparkly shoes in Colchester.
It is a dream come true for all those hoping for a Cinderella moment, but also for everyone with a travel bug, as the shop has many travel guides on display.
The shop is open Mondays to Saturdays 10am to 4pm.
A little further away from the busy centre is Age UK in Crouch Street.
This shop opens its doors Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm.
Besides a wonderful range of clothes, the charity shop carries many handy day-to-day items like calendars, planners, Tupperware and household items as well as a great selection of puzzles.
Further down in Crouch Street is the Sense charity shop.
Here you can rummage through a lovely selection of records that are waiting to be played again.
It is definitely worth having a look at their Halloween selection, offering many accessories and costumes for children.
The Sense charity shop is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.
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