For centuries, fashion has played a pivotal role in human expression. Historically, fashion trends were centered around the wealthy. From royal ball gowns to Louis Vuitton purses, fashion wasn’t always marketed towards everyone. Centuries later, fast fashion stores spiked in popularity, producing clothing items just a few weeks after they were showcased on the runway. This allowed for anyone and everyone to have access to the newest styles without having to pay the thousand-dollar price tag. However, these low prices often come at the expense of unethical human labor, which impacts the environment and causes an overall loss of quality. Though over the years, there has been a huge rise in the use of thrifted clothes.
There are numerous connotations associated with thrifting. For a long time, it was considered to be “gross or unsanitary,” as it involves buying other people’s used clothes. But, used doesn’t mean gross or unhygienic. Clothes can be washed several times and worn just like new. Thrift shopping is special because secondhand clothes can be purchased in great condition at low prices. Oftentimes, clothes bought from thrift stores can be washed to feel good as new. Thrifting clothes also helps the environment, reducing the 9.2 million tons of clothes that end up in the landfill.
As many clothes end up in the landfill, you are saving clothes by thrifting. Not only do you give old clothes a new life and purpose, but you also save money in the process. Thrift stores can be very affordable, so it’s important to be conscious of how much you’re spending while you shop.
Some people are averse to thrifting because it seems easier to go to the mall or online to find that perfect outfit that fits their aesthetic. This can make thrifting complicated. Thrifting doesn’t always promise the perfect shirt or skirt; it takes more time than regular shopping and it can even be almost as expensive as other stores, especially consignment stores or vintage boutiques.
However, if you learn how to thrift carefully, it can be a game-changer for your wardrobe and your wallet. Here are four tips and tricks to help you master the art of thrifting:
You are a person, not an aesthetic
It’s ok to find clothing you like that doesn’t perfectly fit your aesthetic. Living by an aesthetic can push you away from being creative and limit your true fashion potential. Collect clothing pieces that you like and if they don’t fit into that perfect aesthetic, that’s okay, because it’s your style.
It takes time to build your dream closet
You are not going to find every clothing piece you dream of in one day; it takes time. It’s important not to blow your wallet in one trip. Thrift shopping is a great opportunity to find what you like and dislike and what type of clothing you’re into. Thrift stores also contain a lot of clothes that aren’t being made anymore, allowing you to find pieces that you most likely won’t find anywhere else.
Be sure to research many types of thrift stores
Visiting a variety of thrift stores will help you find a wide range of clothes, as different areas get their stock from people with different styles. It can be fun to visit thrift stores when traveling and see how the regional styles differ in that area. Be sure to look at different sections, as you might find some great gems.
As fashion continues to evolve, it’s important to build a sustainable, fashionable future.
