Customer Profile: Hung Pham

After a bit of a break, we're back with another Salvos Stores Customer Profile! This profile is an extra special one, as it features our very own online sales specialist Hung Pham. Hung is an integral member of the Salvos Stores e-commerce team, working to bring you a curated selection of unique, high-quality preloved pieces across our online store, Depop, and eBay platforms. However, in addition to being part of the Salvos Stores team Hung is also a fashion and style expert in his own right, having worked in social media and event management and competed in, won, and organised a long list of pageants! Most recently, Hung was crowned 'Master Tasmania' at the 2022 Mini Miss Tasmania Pageant.

When it comes to fashion, Hung is all about making a statement. Inspired by the runway and featuring many preloved designer pieces, Hung's unique style is full of colour, embellished accessories, and anything that sparkles. He is also the owner of what must be the most colourful and varied collection of blazers this side of the equator.

Here is what Hung had to say about scouting for thrifted designer deals, being inspired by Caroline from 2 Broke Girls, and the convenience of online op-shopping...

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

Greetings from Victoria! I’m Hung Pham, a 27-year-old fashion aficionado based in Melbourne, a city in the far south of Australia known for its ‘4 seasons a day’. At 27, I’m pleased to have achieved many goals I never would have imagined achieving when I was younger. I currently work in the e-commerce industry & on the side I spearhead events within the fashion, pageant, wedding and music industries. You could say I am a person that never stops - I am always on the go and adrenaline fuels me. 

How and when did you first get into op-shopping?  

I first got into op-shopping in 2021 when I discovered a variety of not-for-profit organizations and businesses that were offering pre-loved goods for a fraction of the price. Though the items have been used by other people, op-shops are a great place to find goodies that best resonate with me and my interests. Though in saying this, I first heard about thrifting on the hit sitcom '2 Broke Girls' when Caroline, played by Beth Behrs, found a pair of shorts at a Goodwill location. That sparked my interest in op-shopping and I have never looked back.  

What do you enjoy or appreciate about buying second-hand?  

The biggest thing that I enjoy and appreciate the most when buying second-hand is that the item is not heading straight to a landfill or being re-purposed into something new. I am an advocate of ensuring that the earth is more sustainable & saving the environment in every way we can. Being able to own a preloved good is something that I look forward to, especially when I find something that I have been trying to find for ages.  

What do you shop for the most in op-shops? What is your go-to section of a Salvos store? 

I am someone who shops online! I prefer online to in store as I can do it in my own time outside of work. My go to store is Salvos as it is based all across Australia & in certain areas internationally. I tend to shop on the Salvos online store, eBay & of course Depop! The one section that I am always heading to is the Designer section. Sometimes you can find something that was once incredibly expensive for a fraction of the price. I recently came across a Camilla and Marc Sweat for $20! Bargain (Camilla and Marc sweats are originally $200).

Can you tell us about the best purchase you have made in a Salvos store? 

I think the best purchases that I have made Online with Salvos Stores are an LG Bluetooth Speaker, which is currently sitting in my office, a pair of Ariana Grande Limited Edition headphones, which is a rare find to purchase anywhere, & my Reiss Coat which was purchased so cheaply that I couldn’t even believe my eyes.  

If you could manifest an item to find on your next Salvos visit, what would it be?  

This is a tricky one as I am always looking at finding the next best deal at Salvos. My style changes dramatically with what looks are on the runway. I think if I had to choose, I would manifest a blinged-out, head to toe outfit with rhinestones and everything! My colour of choice? HOT PINK!  

What is your best op-shopping tip? 

My best tip is when you have set your heart on an item that you are willing to purchase, buy it straight away as normally there is only a quantity of one (especially if you are buying online). If you are buying in store, take your time & ensure that you go through all the racks and nooks as sometimes an item is hidden from view, and you may find what you are after.  

What would you say to someone to encourage them to get into op-shopping?

 Look into op-shopping! Because you never know what you are going to find or love. If you don’t look at thrifting, then you are certainly missing out on some of the best deals & items that are being listed and sold every day. Once you start op-shopping, you’ll love it for sure! Thank me later if you do.  

You can find Hung on Instagram @manhpham22