RIP to RRP Melbourne tours to reveal bargain secrets

Want to score deals such as a discounted Christian Dior suit, real Ralph Lauren sheets for $7 or RM Williams leather boots at 80 per cent off? This new tour could be made for you.

Meg Rayner is running guided op shop tours in a Kombi van. Picture: Josie Hayden

Are discounted Christian Dior suits, genuine Ralph Lauren sheets for $7 and half-price RM Williams leather boots your thing?

This Cheltenham woman has what you’re looking for.
Thrift queen Meg Rayner, 32, has launched her RIP To RRP Op Shop tours across Melbourne, where guests will discover top bargain hot spots, learn the tricks of the trade and grab some lunch and beers — all while cruising around a 1974 VW Kombi.

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The Mentone shopper is obsessed with scouring op shops and regularly finds quality vintage clothes, shoes and furnishings with character for less than $5.

Now the fashionista, who has worked alongside some of the world’s best at New York Fashion Week, is keen to let others know how easy it is too.

Meg Rayner with her Kombi people-mover outside Cheltenham Salvos. Picture: Josie Hayden

“Some people don’t know how to see past their fears and just walk in (to an op shop), think it’s smelly and too difficult and leave,” Ms Rayner said.

“This is about helping them boost their confidence so they can get off the fast fashion treadmill and find some timeless pieces that you really can wear forever.”

Ms Rayner’s tips include looking at the plus size racks for the best knits, checking out the menswear section for T-shirts, and going up a size in vintage jeans.

“Mostly the products are organised by size or colour on the racks and that can be really daunting but it’s great once you get past that,” she said.

The first tour on May 25 will stop at seven op shops across Bayside, Glen Eira and Kingston, with guests offered an extra discount at each store.