Please welcome Jen from Vintageglammz, who very kindly agreed to attend yesterday’s celebrity launch of Red Threads and report back to The Dernier Cri. (Click on the links below for more photos.)

Do you dread stepping foot into a charity store due to that awful musky smell and the gruesome task of trawling through messy clothing bins? Fear not, because the Red Cross’ new fashion boutique store, Red Threads has just opened and I was fortunate enought to attend the opening thanks to Lauren.

An ordinary charity shopping experience it is not, Red Threads is a fine concoction of the upmarket and quirky. The quaint, shoebox sized store is cleverly designed and decorated. Think vintage Singer sewing machines as a wall feature, jars filled with multi-coloured spools of thread and fancy looking handiworks on display upon entering. Of course, no visit should be without a browse at the back of the store where the marvelous shoe collection awaits. There you will find a shoe wall made from second hand books (right).

The highlight of the store would have to be the designer garments generously donated by Australian celebrities. Sydney shoppers will have the chance to own a celebrity piece of their own including Cate Blanchett’s classic Giorgio Armani number, going for a bargain price of $495AUD, and Chris Bath’s swoon-worthy Jimmy Choo bow shoes – yours for a tiny $250AUD.

In addition to celebrity pieces, expect to find gems from top Australian designers such as Alannah Hill, Collette Dinnigan and high-end brands. No trawling is necessary as all clothing and accessories are neatly colour coordinated and arranged.

Red Threads is now opened and located on 390 Oxford Street, in Sydney’s trendy suburb of Paddington. Until 30th of May, shoppers can download a coupon to receive 30% off any Red Threads item. Just head to the Australian Red Cross Facebook page to download the coupon.

Store proceeds will go towards supporting people in need, such as those who have been affected by disasters in the last few months, so… happy guilt-free shopping!