Secondhand Chic: 10 Essential Tips for a Sustainable Wardrobe

Revamping My Wardrobe: A Year of Secondhand Shopping

As I approached my final year of college, I made a bold decision: I would give up buying new clothes and opt for secondhand instead. This choice was motivated by my growing unease with the environmental and social implications of fast fashion, as well as my dwindling bank account. Luckily, I lived in a city with an abundance of thrift stores, making it easy to find quality secondhand clothing.

The Challenge: Restocking My Wardrobe

With graduation and job interviews on the horizon, I needed to revamp my wardrobe for adult life. I committed to buying only secondhand clothes from January 2013 to January 2014. It wasn’t easy, but I managed to pull it off, with only one exception: a new pair of everyday jeans when my old ones ripped.

The Benefits: More Than Just Savings

This experiment not only saved me money in the short term but also changed the way I shop forever. I developed valuable skills that have made me a more conscious and savvy thrift-shopper.

10 Essential Tips for Secondhand Shopping

  1. Know Your Measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial when thrift shopping. Keep track of your waist, hip, and bust sizes, and use your handspan as a built-in measurement tool.

  2. Research High-End Stores: Visit higher-end stores to get a sense of current styles and trends, then look for similar pieces at thrift stores.

  3. Have a Game Plan: Before entering a thrift store, mentally prepare by focusing on specific items you need, such as high-waisted shorts or work shirts.

  4. Explore Beyond Trendy Neighborhoods: Venture into less popular areas to find hidden gems and unique pieces.

  5. Be Honest About Your Style: Know what you wear and what fits your lifestyle. Avoid buying items that don’t align with your personal style.

  6. The Three-Wears Rule: Before buying, think of three different ways to wear the piece to ensure it won’t languish in your closet.

  7. Understand Alteration Costs: Factor in the cost of alterations when buying secondhand clothes, and consider learning to sew to save money.

  8. Inspect Before You Buy: Carefully examine the item for any defects, stains, or necessary repairs.

  9. Be Patient with Basics: Finding high-quality basics at thrift stores can take time, so be prepared to search and anticipate your needs.

  10. Online Thrift Shopping: Explore online platforms like ThredUp, TheRealReal, and Poshmark for secondhand shopping opportunities.

By following these tips, you can successfully navigate the world of secondhand shopping and develop a more sustainable approach to fashion.

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