The shop has changed hands a number of times over the years, and so every time I go in I expect…read moresomething different to whatever it turns out to be. The general theme, though, is reasonably priced women's clothing. At the moment, the supply reminds me of the sort I can find when going shopping at South Melbourne Market. That is, a mix of Caroline Morgan and slightly quirkier options - the age aimed at being mid-twenties all the way up to retirement age. The look is layers, crushed fabrics, interesting cuts and standard colours. Weekend wear for the ladies on a budget.

The Lions Op Shop in Mount Waverley does something (I believe) is quite unique: each week the shop…read moreis run by a different community group, with the profits going to whatever their fundraising is for. They are responsible for staffing it, for providing some goods, and in return they get some money. Brilliant. For a small shop, it's often stuffed to bursting. I've found some real gems there, too, like a handmade full tux from the 20s that fitted me perfectly. There's a $1 rack with wearable items, too, and a fantastic selection of board games. Don't know why Mount Waverley citizens insist on throwing out their board games, but, hey, I win.

For anyone bigger than a size 16, Autograph is a life saver. Aimed at a slightly older demographic…read morethan City Chic, Autograph caters for bigger women in the areas of casual wear, swimwear, business wear, and evening. The clothes are decent quality, and are designed in a way to flatter a fuller figure. The prices are reasonable, with a pair of pants setting you back around $50-60. Join their club to receive specials and discounts. Also keep an eye on their website as they have geat end of season sales where you can grab bargains up to 70% off.

Fox Maiden is a boutique that houses up to the minute fashion from around the world, at fairly…read moreaffordable prices. You will find many local and international designs, catering to both men and women. The quality of the items available are generally of a high standard, and are very current in terms of this seasons fashion. I really liked the womens wear, they had some great dresses and jewellry that was very complimentary to the outfits available. Isnt it nice when you can walk into one store, find an entire outfit and then be done with it? The sales staff were great at finding matching accessories for my new dress, and I would definitely recommend checking it out when you are looking for both casual and party wear.

I ordered a dress which was over $200 for a wedding. When received, the quality was not great - I'd…read moreexpected much more for the price, and the item didn't suit me. The pictures didn't really show what the fabric was like other than colour. Then, they don't refund - only store credit. Damn fine print!! What online retailer doesn't refund???? I don't like a single other item in their range, so now, no dress and no $200. BUYER BEWARE!! This retailer should re-think their policies if they wish to be an online retailer. I wouldn't recommend them unless you want to flush your money down the toilet

Tucked in the very corner of Hamilton Place, one wonders how it can have been going for so long? I…read moreguess op-shops stay, even if by sheer will alone. It's hard to spot this one, at the very end of a strip of shops that flew off the side of the square. And it's so tiny that everything has been crammed in. Best thing? The 30 cent book basket out the front. Thirty Cents. Everything is cheap, good place to go for an emergency jumper or raincoat or creative gift. Last time I was there I saw a really beautiful mobile for only a few dollars. Put some effort into looking and you might just be surprised!

Precious Fashion located in Forest Hill Shopping centre is another of the crowded, cheap clothing…read morestores that seem to be popping up everywhere. It has heaps of clothes and the coat hangers are squeezed tightly together. There is a constant sale happening although the prices are never really that pricey to begin with. The staff here are always extremely enthusiastic and when I went in today the salesperson was demonstrating how to wear a cardigan to a woman who was already wearing one. It was nice to see someone who clearly loves their job but it can be a little overwhelming when you are the subject of that attention. The store is generally clean but it really is a squeeze to fit past the racks in some parts of the store. It is quite a small shop and is rectangular with the change rooms at the back. I'd recommend it as a place to grab a last minute item to complete an outfit. The items are very standard and it's likely you will have seen them elsewhere but at least they are cheap and the service is good.