Take a moment and think about what comes to my mind when you think of thrifting. Some of you may have plenty of positive associations, but a lot of you might view thrifting in a more negative light.
You may think thrifting is only for poor people and is, therefore, a sign that someone is struggling. You may think it is beneath you. You may think wearing used clothes is gross. You might think all the clothes in thrift stores are ugly. I’m here to address and dismantle all of these concerns.
While twenty years ago, thrifting might have been looked down upon as a symbol of low status (status symbols are bs, but that’s beside the point) it is actually becoming incredibly trendy, especially among millennials and gen z. Many influencers on Instagram, Youtube, and beyond are showing off their thrifted finds with pride, and even building their brand around choosing used. Thrifting has become part of a popular aesthetic, and there is a strong thrifting subculture that has already taken root. Essentially, thrifting is to 2019 as thick-rimmed glasses and fedoras were to 2013.
If you think used clothes are gross, may I suggest investing in some tide pods and learning how to run a basic wash cycle? Enough said.
If you think you can’t find clothes that fit your style at the thrift store, chances are you either,
A. Aren’t looking hard enough
or
B. Aren’t shopping at the right thrift stores
I will be the first to admit your traditional thrift store is filled with a lot of duds, but if you’re willing to take a thorough look through all the racks, you will find some hidden treasures. Especially if you’re into a bit of a vintage aesthetic.
However, if you are a die-hard fan of the mall and you want clothes that look fresh out of 2019, you might want to check out a resale shop. Shops like these buy gently used clothes that have been in stores in the past 18 months. They only accept clothes that look like you could have picked them right off the rack at the popular fast-fashion stores. Fast fashion style without harm to the environment and workers? What’s not to love!
If you stick around, you will learn more ways to make the most out of your thrifting trips, including where you should shop based on your style, and how you can make sure you don’t miss out on any gems that might get lost in the racks.
If you haven’t tried thrifting yet, you are fresh out of excuses! Thrifting is not only the trendy thing to do, it also reduces waste and doesn’t support a corrupt system of overproduction. What are you waiting for?
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