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Moving to a new country, even if just for a short time, might bring some challenges. One of them can be a need of a new wardrobe that goes better with the climate you are in. Or maybe you just split your pants trying to prove to your new friends that you still know how to breakdance?
No matter what reason, I am here to guide you through the best practices of sustainable shopping in Norway. The primary goal of sustainable shopping is to make more responsible and environmentally conscious choices while also supporting ethical and socially responsible practices.
This blogpost is written with Oslo as a starting point, however most of these tips can be used nation wide!
Second Hand Stores
First things first, there are many second hand stores available. I have decided these into three categories: The stores with selected vintage items, mid-range thrift shops and the cheaper options.
- Selected vintage items stores: The nicest vintage stores will often be the one where some professionals already have handpicked high quality fashion items from other, more frizzy second hand stores. Although this concept might ruin the fun for those of us wanting to spend some time looking for the treasures, there are defiantly some benefits to this too. Some very nice upscale vintage shops in Oslo are: Velouria Vintage, Prisløs and Good Vibes Vintage.
- Mid-range: Probably the biggest chain store for used clothing in Norway is Fretex. Fretex belong to the Norwegian Salvation Army. Another good thrift shop with reasonable prices and selection is Uff. Red Cross also usually has a thrift shop in every big-to-medium sized city. Buying items here will also support their global humanitarian work.
- The cheaper option: There is usually a variety of other, smaller thrift shops. Either chains, like NMS – gjenbruk, or more local initiative, often with staff volunteering to collect money for charity. The golden rule is, the further away from the capital, the cheaper the store will be.
The Joy of Buying Second Hand Online
Sometimes it is easier to find things online – it is more organized and has more options! You can have a look to general websites, apps or social media. Combined these services will help you find a place to rent, buying property, getting a job or buying a dog. Anything from birth to grave really. Sort by place, price, brands, and make personalized notifications if no one it selling what you are looking for at the moment.
Two general rules:
- Be nice – say hi first.
- Don’t haggle if is already super cheap, unless the item has been online for many weeks.
And the best part? Some of these services has a give away section. In one of the most wealthy countries in the world, there are a lot of people who actually just want to get rid of something. However, there is a very important rule that comply; If you write someone to ask for their item (yes, you still ask if you can have it, don’t just write “I’LL TAKE IT”), you have to show up, on time, to pick the item. Do it for your community!
And don’t ask someone who is giving away something for free if they can deliver it to you for free. Just... no.
Flee markets
Normally, fall is flee marked season. Most of the flee markets in Norway are held at locals primary schools, organized by the marching band association. All sorts of items are for sales, mainly donated by relatives or neighbors of schools children. For me, this is where I have gotten most of my books and kitchen utensils from. The flee markets is defiantly where you can
Hidden Gem: Gjenbruksstasjon
Some cities, including Oslo, have stations where you can go to sort and recycle your garbage. If you have items that are fully useable, but you want to get rid of them, you can also leave them here. If you, on the other hand, are in need of anything some left, you can take it. No questions asked! But remember to weigh your item before leaving with it (for statistical purposes only).
Find your closets re-use-station in Oslo using this webpage.
Enjoy your emission free shopping!
Best,
Hannah, OLS Community Manager - Norwegian