Meet the girl that sold more than 100 items within the space of a year! Elaine (@eling0562), 30, moved to Sydney, Australia from Hong Kong despite her little time to spare with full-time work, she’s just as active on Carousell as she is a usual at Sydney’s local clothing swap events.
Tell us a little bit about yourself
Hello, my name is Elaine. I am an opshopaholic/ dog lover/ serious foodie. I am from Hong Kong and have been living in Sydney for 5 years. I work in a design agency as an Account Manager. Fashion has always been my creative outlet. I love coming up with ideas for outfits, sometimes it’s themed, sometimes it’s clashing prints or colours etc.
How did you discover your passion in thrift shopping and what was your inspiration or motivation?
I used to spend a lot of money shopping in regular stores when I was home back in Hong Kong. When I was 25, I came to Australia backpacking with my partner. We were working in cafes, KFC, Lunar Park and all different kinds of jobs. At that time we couldn’t afford buying new things like I used to do, so I had to get creative in satisfying my shopping urge, and that’s when I’ve found my new passion, thrift shopping. I still remember my first op-shopped piece was actually quite functional — it was a pair of work pants for my cafe job.
What’s been the most rewarding aspect you’ve gained from second-hand shopping?
First I have been able to own great quality items for a fraction of the retail price — I found items in great brands, great materials and even vintage pieces in excellent condition. Also as I got into thrift-shopping further, I’ve discovered the joy of seeing potential in an originally unwanted piece and turning it into something great. 
It’s fun to be creative and experiment with my second-hand finds freely. In fact I have been challenging myself to wear only second-hand clothing from head to toes, and I have been putting my thrift shopped outfits on my Instagram account opshopaholic_. Moreover, I know I am helping the society and environment when I shop second-hand — this has been very rewarding!
How long have you been using Carousell?
I have been using Carousell for over a year and a half now. When I decided to settle down in Sydney, my mom sent me all of my old clothes from home. My wardrobe literally exploded so I started selling some of the unwanted items on Carousell. It’s such a great platform and so easy to use!
Have you had any interesting chats with other Carousellers? What are some of your more interesting chats?
I have met so many like-minded people on Carousell, through chats and also community events. Once I had a chat with a girl who bought a lot of clothes from me. She told me that she had lost 20kg through exercise in the past year and she basically needed a whole new wardrobe! Such a great story!
You’re one of our top sellers in Sydney. What are your top three tips for buying and selling on Carousell?
Tip #1 If you’re a seller, it’s important that you post good photos of the items. Good photos attract customers and make the items easier to sell.
Tip #2 Be honest with the condition of the item and disclose even minor flaws. Everyone loves an honest seller!
Tip #3 If you’re looking to buy an item, don’t be shy about asking questions! Once your offered is being accepted, the item will be reserved for you automatically. So make sure you are happy to buy it before making an offer to avoid disappointment for both sides.
