A Love for Thrift Shopping

The first time I remember being in a thrift shop, I was in 4th or 5th grade. I didn\’t really know what the second hand store was as I walked in with my friend who was as clueless as I was. Given that thrift stores lack the bright colors and lights that we were so accustomed to, we didn\’t spend very long there.

A few years later, Macklemore\’s \”Thrift Shop\” was playing on every radio station, and I was filled with the desire to go thrift shopping. It was the summer before 7th grade and I was so excited. I found some cute tanktops and dresses perfect for summer. But as I got into 8th grade and my early high school years, I resorted to buying my clothing from Target and Forever 21. It wasn\’t until I came across the blog Someone Like You (now Passing Whimsies) that the desire to thrift was revived. Since then I\’ve gotten a majority of my closet from my local Goodwills and now the thrift stores in the surrounding Kent area.

Being a fashion merch major, one of the things we learned in our introductory courses is the environmental impact the fashion industry has on the environment (it\’s the 2ND most polluting!). That in combination with the geography/earth class I was taking, allowed the low-key treehugger in me to grow even stronger. So much so that I\’ve been trying to cut back on my new-item purchasing and trash, the former going a lot better than the latter. With this new knowledge, I\’ve also been introduced to the ethical side of thee fashion industry and the minuscule amounts that people are being paid to make the clothing.

Besides the moral issues and waste created in the production process (this includes but is not limited to the water used to grow the cotton, emissions from creation of the product, and emission from transportation), it\’s important also to acknowledge the amount of clothing discarded. Sure we can donate our clothing with the hope that it\’s given a new home and a second life, but in reality so much of it is discarded.

So what can we do to reduce this waste? First, we can use what have. Capsule closets and remixes are becoming so popular, and really allow for creativity. But maybe that\’s not really your thing – I know I definitely struggle with this. Second, when we shop, we should go secondhand clothing first. Personally, I LOVE to shop – it\’s almost a hobby. Shopping second hand allows me to feel a little less guilty about what I buy. (Don\’t forget your reusable bags!) Third, we can shop ethically and invest in quality pieces. Buying from brands that are working to decrease their environmental impact or who practice better trade policies and make sure all their workers are paid is so important. Additionally, invest in quality pieces can reduce the amount that we need to purchase in the future. Fourth, we can recycle our fabric after the clothing is worn past repair. Whether recycling in this case means turning it into something new or giving it to a company that professional recycles the fabric. You may have to look around in your area for groups that are looking for these types of donations. Last but not least, we can speak up. Companies aren\’t going to make changes until we demand changes.

Before I close things out, I do want to make something very clear. While I personally, am aiming to not buy new clothes, I hold no judgement against those who do or who work for clothing companies and manufacturers. Some people just don\’t like buying secondhand, or they\’re made uncomfortable, or whatever the reason. You do you. Like I mentioned in one of my posts the other day, there will be times in the future that I purchase new clothing or accessories. In addition, there are some things, such as undergarments that I can never see myself purchasing secondhand. Regardless, I just think it\’s super important for us to be intentional in all that we do and buy.

About this look: This outfit is almost entirely thrifted, with the exception of the white turtleneck bodysuit, which I love, and my socks. I took some major inspiration from the 70s and this picture for this look.The shirt I found at the Goodwill Outlet in Akron, the jeans and belt are from a Goodwill in Lafayette. The timberland boots were purchased from Poshmark, and let me tell you: these are some of the best shoes ever. Also, shoutout to Anna for taking these super cute pics of me!

Much Love, 

Jacquelyn

Outfit Details:

White Turtleneck Bodysuit: ASOS

Orange Square-neck Tank Top: Thrifted // Similar from Macy\’s

Mom Jeans: Thrifted // Similar from UO

Timberland Wedges: Thrifted from Poshmark // Similar