5 Reasons Why It's Okay To Shop Fast Fashion Secondhand
Buying secondhand clothing can seem like a good idea but you may not be completely sure. This is because of the negative environmental and social impact that fast fashion creates. I completely know what this feels like because I was once unsure how to consume clothing sustainably without breaking the bank. It can get confusing when you don’t want to support fast fashion but don’t know where to shop for sustainable fashion. And the best way to figure this out is by taking the time to investigate the most ethical and sustainable solutions. This is why I am confident to say that you are on the right track because you are reading this blog post! Read the following reasons why buying fast fashion secondhand can be okay and how best to go about it.
1. Shop at Local and Charitable Businesses
When shopping secondhand, consider which businesses you are supporting. Try to prioritize local thrift stores or resellers that have a philanthropic or charitable cause that supports your local community. You would be surprised to find out that Goodwill has millionaire executives and their social mission is simply centered around giving people jobs, a.k.a doing the bare minimum. All the while, acknowledge your role in the gentrification of thrift stores. It is damaging to go out of your way to shop at thrift stores based in low-income communities. It would raise prices through the rise in demand and drive out lower-income customers that can’t afford the increased price points. If you can afford to buy from ethical and sustainable brands, opt for this option to avoid negatively affecting local communities.
2.Fast Fashion Is Unavoidable
Avoiding fast fashion is impossible because major brands use the same exploitative fashion business model. They are responsible for the overproduction of clothing that has made thrift stores overflow with discarded clothing. There are very few sustainable fashion brands that have grown big and old enough to have clothing circulating in secondhand businesses. This makes it hard to find secondhand sustainable fashion brands in thrift stores. However, consider looking for specific brands on Depop, Poshmark and eBay. The phenomenon of resale has radically increased the options available to shop online. Try your best to look for pieces you will love for years and be open to trying styles that push you beyond name brand fits.
3.Shopping Secondhand Is More Sustainable
Shopping secondhand can be a more sustainable and cheaper alternative to sustainable fashion brands. You can find amazing deals at thrift stores when you least expect it! This will help you realize how easy it is to find great pieces at realistic price points. But it is important to note that some secondhand businesses do overprice their items by labeling them as “vintage”, which drives out lower-income customers. Businesses, such as Goodwill, are known to raise prices to the point where low-income shoppers are forced to only buy fast fashion brands. This is what makes it so important that you investigate what businesses you are supporting. It is never enough to say you thrift your clothing if it only benefits corporations. It will only lead to classism in sustainable fashion and feed your own ego that you are shopping “sustainably”.
4.Secondhand ≠ Second Quality
Shopping secondhand fast fashion does not mean buying second quality clothing. There are so many beautiful pieces you’ll be able to love for a long time. This means you don’t have to sacrifice your style to be sustainable. You can still shop current trends in secondhand businesses. Since fashion brands are releasing new collections every week and consumers are discarding clothing after just a couple of wears, you will be able to shop for used trendy pieces within a few months. Look at online resale stores if you are searching for specific brands and/or gently used clothing. It’s possible to get a discount through price negotiations with the reseller. This will help you see how easy and accessible secondhand shopping can be for any occasion!
5.Secondhand Fast Fashion Is a Learning Experience
Buying used fast fashion can actually help you explore different brands from decades ago! It can provide insight into how long the fashion industry has been churning out clothing. You also have a first-hand experience with all the different trends and styles that were once “in”. All these options can help you find your unique style and build a more sustainable closet. Whether it is done on online resale shops or in person, consider how best to shop for secondhand clothing. Remember to stay aware of your impact. If you can afford to buy from sustainable brands, consider why you need more clothing. Buying from thrift stores to be more sustainable is harmful when you already have everything you need. This will further help you navigate your purchasing power in sustainable fashion and realize that the most sustainable option is to use what you already own. Buy what you need and love what you own!