As more of us are being mindful of how much we spend, sometimes it can be difficult to buy a knock-out outfit for Valentine's Day without going over budget - especially as February 14 falls on the wrong side of pay day for most people.

Eastern Daily Press: Top �3 Norfolk Hospice; Skirt �3.99 Age UK. Picture: Ian BurtTop �3 Norfolk Hospice; Skirt �3.99 Age UK. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

But on the one day of the year you and your significant other plan to do something special, you can look a million dollars without busting the bank.

You want an impressive new outfit but you're short on cash - so what says more than 'I love you' to your bank balance, the environment and your conscience than shopping in charity shops?

It's an ethical way to shop. As clothes prices are becoming more competitive, the so-called 'fast fashion' industry is the second biggest polluter in the world and one way of countering that issue is to buy sustainable, second-hand clothing.

Not only are you making huge savings for a 'new' outfit you're also helping local businesses and doing your bit for charity.

Eastern Daily Press: Dress �5 Age UK; Shoes �5 Norfolk Hospice; Cardigan �5 Cancer Research. Picture: Ian BurtDress �5 Age UK; Shoes �5 Norfolk Hospice; Cardigan �5 Cancer Research. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

And as I showed, you can pick up a fabulous-looking dress and shoes for £6 and pair it with items already in your wardrobe.

You may even find some hidden treasures - like the Jaeger cardigan worth hundreds of pounds, which I bagged for £5.

The Norfolk Hospice director of operations, Lynn Lockhart, said: 'Our charity shops raise vital funds to provide a range of services that help people living with life-shortening illnesses.

'These services wouldn't be possible without the generosity of local people who shop and donate throughout the year.

Eastern Daily Press: Dress �1 Sue Ryder; Cardigan �5 Cancer Research; Shoes �5 Norfolk Hospice. Picture: Ian BurtDress �1 Sue Ryder; Cardigan �5 Cancer Research; Shoes �5 Norfolk Hospice. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

'Valentine's Day represents love and by purchasing from us you are sharing your love with a local charity.'

That cheap top in the high street may look appealing but recent stories of the mistreatment of textile factory workers in developing countries may give you pause for thought.

So in order to be a savvy shopper whilst still looking your best, bag yourself a bargain from local thrift stores, check the label and avoid impulse buys from the high street - you'll love yourself for it.