In a world where fast fashion shops and next-day delivery rules, it’s easy to forget about second-hand clothing - let's be honest, it could be said there's no need to buy clothing second-hand. However, I beg to differ, I believe there are many reasons to start buying your clothes second-hand. In fact, there are probably more reasons than you think! When you buy clothes second-hand, you are helping the environment, saving money, and getting stylish clothing for a fraction of the price. Keep reading to learn more about why you should make the switch to buying second-hand clothes today!
You'll save money - buying second-hand clothes is much cheaper than buying new clothes
Anyone who has ever stepped into a clothes shop knows that clothes shopping can be a pricey endeavor (especially with branded clothes). But what if there was a way to get the same quality clothes for a fraction of the price? Enter second-hand clothing stores. These stores offer gently used clothes at a fraction of the cost of new clothes. And since fashion trends tend to repeat themselves, it's easy to find current styles at second-hand stores. So whether you're looking for a new outfit for a special occasion or want to update your wardrobe, don't overlook the great deals at second-hand stores. You'll save money and find some hidden gems in the process.
In addition to second-hand stores like charity shops and thrift stores, second-hand apps like Vinted and Depop are a great way of finding second-hand clothes without leaving the comfort of your own home! These apps allow you to search for used clothes from people worldwide. These apps will enable you to buy and sell clothes, accessories, and even beauty products. What's great about using apps like these is that you can find unique items you won't find in stores. And since the clothes are second-hand, they're usually much cheaper than buying new clothes from a store.
You'll help the environment - by buying used clothes, you're reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfills
Textile waste is a huge problem, especially within the fast fashion industry. Every year, billions of items of clothing are being sent to landfill. And since most clothes are made from synthetic materials, they take centuries to decompose.
When you buy second-hand clothes, you're giving clothes a second life and preventing them from going to landfill. In fact, by shopping second-hand, you can reduce your carbon footprint. A study by the University of Exeter found that buying one second-hand item of clothing is equivalent to reducing your carbon footprint by 0.85kg.
Not only does buying second-hand clothes help reduce textile waste, but it also helps to reduce the demand for new clothes. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. And a large part of this pollution can be traced to people constantly buying new clothes.
So, by buying your clothes second-hand, you're not only helping to reduce textile waste, but you're also helping to reduce the demand for new clothes.
You'll get stylish clothing for a fraction of the price - since second-hand clothes are much cheaper than new clothes, you can afford to buy more (and fill your wardrobe even quicker - don't tell me I didn't warn you!).
You'll find unique pieces you can't find in stores - there are so many excellent vintage and second-hand clothes
When you shop second-hand, you can access a world of unique and exciting clothes you wouldn't find in stores. And since more and more people are shopping second-hand, the selection of clothes is only getting better!
You can find clothes from all eras, including vintage clothes from the 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. And if you're not into vintage clothes, you can also find second-hand modern clothes. Before starting your hunt for second-hand clothes, have a rough idea of the clothes you want to look for. This will make your search much easier (and more fun!).
When you shop second-hand, you can find hidden gems that are one-of-a-kind. Unlike big box stores where everyone is shopping for the same mass-produced items, second-hand stores offer a much more unique and individualized shopping experience. You never know what you might find when you step into a second-hand store - that perfect vintage dress, a hard-to-find record, or a piece of furniture that is just your style. And because second-hand stores are constantly getting new inventory, there is always something new to discover. So if you're looking for something different, exciting, and unique, then shopping second-hand is the way to go.
You'll be supporting small businesses - when you buy from second-hand stores, you're helping to support local businesses
Additionally, shopping second-hand helps to support small businesses. You support a large corporation when you buy clothes from a big box store. But you support a small business when you purchase clothes from a second-hand store. Second-hand stores are usually locally owned and operated, meaning your money goes back into the local economy.
Charity shops are a great place to find gently used clothing at a fraction of the cost of retail prices. Furthermore, you are supporting a good cause by shopping at charity stores. Most charity shops are operated by non-profit organizations that use the proceeds to fund their programs and services. So not only are you getting a great deal on clothing, but you're also helping to support a worthwhile cause. In addition, many charity shops sell items that residents have donated. This means you also support your community by shopping at a charity store. So next time you need some new clothes, be sure to check out your local charity shop.
You'll get to experiment with different styles - since you're not spending a lot of money on each piece, you can afford to try out different styles
One of the great things about shopping at thrift stores is that you can afford to experiment with different styles. If you find a dress, you like but aren't sure if it's quite your style, there's no harm in buying it and giving it a try. The same goes for pieces with bolder prints or brighter colors - since you're not spending much money on each item, you can afford to take some fashion risks. And who knows? You may find a new favorite style that you would never have discovered otherwise.
But don't worry, the experimented style doesn't suit you, don't panic! You can sell the item and not lose any money. So next time you're shopping second-hand, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone - you might be surprised by what you find.
Summary - Why should I buy second-hand clothes?
If you're looking for an environmentally friendly, affordable way to update your wardrobe, consider giving second-hand clothes shopping a try. You may be surprised at the range of benefits it offers. From reducing your carbon footprint to helping support a good cause, there are plenty of reasons to make second-hand clothes shopping part of your routine. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing vinted and local charity shops today!
If you're looking to sell your clothes, why not check out this blog post?
Becky Rothwell
