Hello lovely readers! Today’s discussion will be on thrifting (thrift shopping) clothes!
Recently, thrifting has become a trend ever since vintage fashion came back into style. This was largely influenced by social media platforms such as TikTok, where teens post “hidden gems” selling vintage, now-trendy clothing. In Singapore, these shops are mainly located in the 6th floor of Lucky Plaza (click the link for an example!) or in Peninsula Plaza. Where most thrift stores are owned by the older generation, small independent shops run by younger people have also opened up.
Thrift shopping is an excellent option is closing the loop of the circular economy as it is a sustainable option that keeps clothes in use and extends its life cycle and prolongs the time before it ends up in an incinerator or landfill. The circular economy is a sustainable one, which does not require us to sacrifice our quality of life for economic development. Based on my previous posts, it is clear that the global supply chain itself is a consumer which rapidly consumes natural resources and exploits labour ruthlessly, leaving abundant pollutants in its wake. Consumers are increasingly embracing the idea of a sustainable lifestyle and being more aware of the unethical practices in the fashion industry. The idea of clothes being disposable is slowing undoing itself, with more youth turning to thrift stores instead of H&M or Forever 21. Reducing demand for fast fashion can reduce environmental harm in the long run, considering how the industry is one of the biggest contributors to pollution.
The video above explains the appeal of thrifting and it’s recent popularity amongst youth, as well as some drawbacks which I will elaborate on in my next post! Thank you and stay tuned!
♡, Qystina
Sources:
Vanicore, L. (2019). Vintage Fashion: An Example of Circular Economy as a sustainable alternative to the Fast Fashion. LUISS Department of Economics and Finance.
Vehmas, K., Raudaskoski, A., Heikkilä, P., Harlin, A., & Mensonen, A. (2018). Consumer attitudes and communication in circular fashion. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management: An International Journal.