Thrifting Triumph: The £25 Charity Shop Discovery That Felt Like Winning the Lottery
For many bargain hunters, charity shops represent a treasure trove of potential finds, but one Wiltshire woman experienced what she describes as hitting the absolute jackpot during a recent visit. Brogan, a keen thrifter who shares her discoveries online under the username tripleearthsign_, was left utterly astonished when she uncovered a genuine vintage Barbour trench coat priced at a mere £25.
The Unlikely Find That Sparked Joy
In a social media post that has since captivated fellow thrifting enthusiasts, Brogan declared she felt like she had "won the lottery" after spotting the iconic waxed jacket nestled among the charity shop rails. The coat, which she estimates dates back to the 1980s based on her research, was in remarkably good condition considering its age. This serendipitous discovery fulfilled a years-long wish list item for the savvy shopper.
"POV: you find a Barbour trench in a charity shop for £25 and feel like you’ve won the lottery. This is why I love thrifting," Brogan wrote alongside a video showcasing her prized find. She elaborated that the coat had been on her radar for years, making the unexpected charity shop encounter all the more thrilling.
The Scented Challenge and DIY Determination
Despite the coat's excellent structural condition, Brogan faced one significant hurdle: a powerful, unpleasant odour that was so potent she had been storing the garment in her shed. Undeterred, and admitting to possessing that determined "I can do it myself" gene, she embarked on a restoration project that goes against Barbour's official care recommendations.
Official guidance from the heritage brand strongly advises against machine washing, dry cleaning, or using hot water and detergents on their waxed jackets, as these methods can permanently damage the wax coating and the fabric itself. The recommended approach involves gently brushing off dirt and sponging the exterior with cold water only.
Nevertheless, Brogan documented her process of washing the coat—a step she deemed necessary due to the smell—and her plans to re-wax it using a tub of waterproof wax, after watching "hundreds of DIY waxing videos" for guidance. She acknowledged that Barbour offers a professional cleaning service but chose the hands-on route.
A Wave of Thrifting Envy and Shared Stories
The online reaction to Brogan's find was one of widespread admiration and shared excitement for the thrifting community. Many commenters expressed sheer jealousy, with one person stating, "I’ve never been so jealous. What an amazing find." Another simply said, "I love that jacket, oh my."
The post also prompted others to share their own charity shop success stories. One individual recounted: "I found a Barbour in a charity shop for a fiver, and it was in pretty bad condition. I washed it and waxed it and now it looks new." Another offered friendly advice, noting, "I know you said about doing it yourself, but Barbour do a cleaning service and it’s amazing! Got my one looking brand new."
This discovery follows closely on the heels of another notable charity shop bargain recently reported, where a shopper snapped up a pair of boots worth £900 for a fraction of the price. It underscores the enduring appeal and potential rewards of second-hand shopping, where patience and a keen eye can sometimes lead to extraordinary value.
For Brogan, the £25 Barbour trench coat represents more than just a bargain; it's a testament to the unique thrill of the hunt that keeps dedicated thrifters returning to charity shop aisles, always hoping to uncover their own piece of hidden treasure.
