Secondhand style
to save
the world

Each year, the fashion industry creates an enormous amount of waste. The production cycle that has evolved from four seasons into fifty-two seasons (read: a revolving weekly update) is cause for concern in every area of ethical consumption and production from water wasted in treating textiles, irresponsible labor practices, environmental damage, and discarded clothing left in landfills. 

 
 

While a big part of buying ethically is supporting people who are fighting for more responsible and sustainable production, secondhand shopping can be an even more effective solution.

Buying secondhand eliminates any social and environmental impacts of creating new clothing because, well, it already exists. Regardless of the means by which it came to be, using a garment that is already out in the world will always create less waste than producing something new. Browsing your local thrift store, or the hip vintage shop around the corner from your Airbnb, also saves fashionable and pre-loved garments from ending up as more waste in a landfill. The argument for thrifting goes beyond sustainability and ethics: you can find amazing pieces and boost your wardrobe at a fraction of the price by exploring secondhand clothing.

 
 
 
 
 
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Fashion repeats itself, calling on decades and trends passed, so knowing what's on trend can help to make old clothes feel current. They'll also feel more you. Knowing that a piece had a life before you bought it gives it an indescribable character and elicits a different kind of care — knowing you won't be able to find an exact replica on a rack somewhere means your wardrobe becomes more precious. Plus, the odds of standing next to someone wearing the same shirt in line are a lot lower if there aren't five copies of your shirt hanging in a store. 

Finding a perfect $5 coat at a thrift store or a rare designer shirt in a vintage boutique is a special kind of satisfaction.

 

Secondhand shopping requires patience, but finding a perfect $5 coat at a thrift store or a rare designer shirt in a vintage boutique is a special kind of satisfaction. Buying from the amazing community of sustainable designers and brands is certainly worthwhile, but consider secondhand next time you feel the need for a wardrobe update. 

 
 

by Kiara McDade
Photographed by Meghan Marin