I mean, seriously, thrifting should be your new favorite shopping addiction! It just ticks off so many boxes! (I’ve counted at least five☑)
But first, I wanted to share a little about me. I’ve never been a huge fan of shopping. Retail therapy was never really a thing for me. I shopped whenever I needed something, and that was about it. And though I like to explore my personal style through my clothing, and of course look nice (who doesn’t, right?) I also believe in owning only what you need. This is all to say I am not here to sell the idea of shopping.
Discovered the world of thrifting.
So the idea behind the shopping is still the same- going through tons of clothing in racks, looking for something that resonates with me, and then trying it on for size.
However, knowing that while thrifting I’m also making a choice that’s better for the environment? Well, I was sold (pun intended?🙃)
The first ☑checked box
So, here is the first box, keeping waste out of landfills ✔️
Now you can be thinking, what about quality? These items are used after all…
Two points on this:
- To begin with, Fast Fashion many times doesn’t deliver the highest quality items. You might wear them a couple of times and discover just how poorly the materials hold up.
- Here, because these items have already been used, you already have a bit of proof that they have held up to the test.
Plus many of the things don’t even look used. Actually, some haven’t even been worn at all. I have found plenty of pieces with tags still on.
Remember, many people like to wear their clothing only while it is in season. They might also get tired of wearing the same thing after only a couple of uses.
And, another popular reason to donate, unwanted gifts! Since regifting has such a negative stigma, donating those items allows for peace of mind.
Now for the second ☑checked off box
By purchasing used goods you are reducing the demand for new things✔️
Duh right? But think about it, the smaller the demand, the less waste will be produced by large corporations. Oh and fewer resources used like water and electricity.
Now I know you can tell me that just one person won’t make a difference, but won’t it? You usually go shopping with friends or family, so there I count at least two people making a change! By making this transition you might be inspiring those around to switch to a more eco-friendly shopping as well.
Im sure you'll love the third ☑box
If you’re not persuaded yet, let’s talk money. Thrifting is not just good for the environment but also for your wallet. We’re talking about a huge win-win here! You can find amazing things, sometimes designer brands, or pieces with tags still on them, for a fraction of their retail price! Oh and some thrift stores even have sale days. Cha-ching, amirite?
So that’s already 3 ✔️
Maybe not for everyone but here's the fourth ☑
Another upside for you personally is that while thrifting you will find a large variety of items.
Has it never happened to you that store after store, you end up finding similar versions of the same things? That’s because when you shop at regular stores, you are limited by what’s “in” this season.
On the other hand, thrift stores allow you much more flexibility to work on your own style.
PS they can also be great places to find your next Halloween costume! So check✔️and check✔️
Now for the fifth ☑one
An extra benefit for the communities where the stores are located. Many thrift stores work closely with local organizations. They either donate their profits, or provide other opportunities to locals like access to employment or much needed resources. For example, Out of the Closet has several locations in the US where they offer free HIV testing!
Now I know the option of buying used was seen negatively before. The idea that only those who couldn’t afford new bought used, and our attempts to show off to others stood in the way. However, as we become more eco-conscious the stigma is being dropped. Now, sustainability has become much more important and the conversation is changing. So let’s get with it and search your area for thrifting next time you need something,
Very cool! Thrift shopping ftw!
yes ma’am, it’s quickly becoming my sole form of clothes shopping!
Excellent !!!
Thank you!
This is very interesting and well put. Congrats and thrift away!
Thanks so much, really appreciate the comment ❤️
I’ve gone to thrift shops for Halloween! I agree, great advice!
Aren’t they the best for it? Much more creative costumes and at a fraction of the price of costume shops!
Hi Maite! Love your article. I also like thrift shopping! You can find really cool things, like the dress I bought to celebrate my wedding 4 years ago!
Hey, thanks so much for your comment! I’m really glad you liked it. And that is awesome, thrifting for the win ??
¡Excelente artículo! Me encanta la idea de sentir y vivir en lo necesario. Genial poder ayudar a ahorrar electricidad, agua, dinero, permitir a tiendas donar a la gente necesitada de su localidad y además lucir bien!!! Muy bella mi niña con tu atuendo. QDLB Maite y Ambar, su óptica novedosa cambia al mundo y nuestra visión de él. Mil gracias, como siempre aprendiendo de este ameno Blog. Besos y abrazos.
Me alegra mucho que te haya gustado. Esas tiendas son geniales. Muchas gracias por tus palabras tan lindas. Saludos!!
This is very interesting! I liked the article. There are also secondhand stores in Spain and for each garment purchased you donate a percentage to a foundation, it is a win win.
Thanks so much, I’m glad you enjoyed the article. It is awesome to know that, I’ll be sure to visit them next time I’m there, that way I can also travel lighter on my way there!