One of the many advantages of shopping second hand (alongside the obvious benefit to charity, the ethical credentials, the cheaper prices and the more extensive range of clothes) is the scope for creativity. I often find myself reaching for items that would never have otherwise entered my head as being desirable or worthy of purchase. The case in hand here is the blue robe – it’s a university gown, picked up at one of the charity shop stalls at the Big Chill. I wore it out and about at the festival the next day, and was accosted by a very jolly man who exclaimed “My dear, but you look fabulous! Why don’t more people dress like that?” I was fifteen at the time, and more than a little bemused! However, the voluminous shape and sleeves allow for an indulgently dramatic feeling.

I layered over a lilac silk dress (bought from a charity shop) for maximum fabric swishing potential, keeping it in place with yet another vintage seventies belt given to me by my grandma. The little Kangol beret was a gift from a friend, who I’m assuming bought it from a charity shop. The rich berry shade went well with the satin shoes, which were given to me by the owner of a market stall that I often frequent. Unfortunately you can’t see the jeweled heels in the picture. However, they’re more for show than actual wear.