Salvation Army, Elsternwick

This is really the little op-shop that could. Concealed behind a grey pylon on busy Glenhuntly Rd, what appears to be an ordinary suburban op-shop delivers some unique finds and fabrics which capture this cool eighties, textural vibe.

The store unfolds in front of you when you enter, it is a narrow, but deep shop that is partitioned into very clear sections (shoes,shirts, skirts, pants, lingere, jeans and menswear in that order.) It has a little bit of a crazy pastel colour theme, with all the walls painted into different blocks of pastel pinks, yellows and blues and an almost sickening fluorescent green.

Shoe sizes were on the smallish size, I fantasized about trying to fit my feet into a pair of size six light brown booties with a subtle faux fur lining and laces with gold caps on the ends. The range of dress sizes was impressive, from fitted little black dresses to floaty floral miu miu's. I spent some time considering this giant black dress with shimmery black feathering, but decided I'd look like Herman Munster if I was ever to wear it out. Alternatively I found this wonderful dress, which looked like denim, but appeared to be made out of a jersey fabric. It had these soft little pockets lined with a navy fabric and an angular high collar. Eventually I found a cream, silk top, with puffy sleeves, slight shoulder-pads and delicate floral featuring around the left shoulder.

There were some really sturdy pieces in the mens collection, nothing outlandish but practical. Rugby tops, t-shirts and sports jackets were some of the strongest pieces, though there were some horrible windproof fishing jackets that reminded me of a guy I used to date.... There were also some beautiful pure wool mens navy and black suit jackets at around $12, that appeared in extremely good condition (everything in this store was excellently priced.)

At the very back of the store there is a colourful little room with children's clothes, shoes and toys. The shop also has a comprehensive collection of secondhand paperbacks and those dear op-shop paintings which are often a little lopsided. It is a well organised shop, there is good variety of clothes without being overwhelmed by jumble. The homewares' section in particular has this good balance of items and space, it's neat and nothing feels like it is about to topple of the shelf. Browsing and inspecting trinkets and glasswear was easy

I went early afternoon, and it seemed like a busy local hub without being overcrowded. The volunteers were youngish and friendly and as I mentioned a little earlier the prices were great. At the moment some of the items are half-priced. The cream shirt I purchased was $3.99.

Elsternick Salvo's in an everyday,unpretentious op-shop with some unique finds, it's a store that is definately worth a second look if you initially hurry past it.



address: 366 Glenhuntly Rd, Elsternwick

changerooms: 2, they were some of the most spacious changing rooms I have ever been in. 10 people could have fitted in one!

music: Magin 1278

Getting there:

pt: Catch the Sandringham line train to Elsternwick station

parking: There are 2 hour parking lots behind either side of Glenhuntly rd.

food: Glicks Bakery is a favourite for bagels and other treats.