I tried . . . shopping only secondhand
Opinion: A few years ago, motivated by a desire to do my bit(s) for climate change, I decided to give up on fast fashion.
With clothes already existing in masses and vintage garments eternally branded as popular, there was no reason to shop new.
So, armed with a new challenge, I turned away from the H&Ms and Glassonses of the world and discovered the joy of secondhand shopping.
The impact of fast fashion on the environment is hard to ignore.
Between water consumption, microfibre pollution and textile waste, fashion production makes up 10 per cent of the world’s carbon emissions.
Although shopping secondhand was a moral decision first, I soon discovered it was a practical one too.
I started my adventure without much of a plan: I would visit the op shops no matter my clothing needs.
However, I soon hit a wall.
Buying used underwear didn’t seem healthy, and I realised secondhand sportswear might not suit my frequent gym outings.
What now?
Well, slow change was better than no change.
I did some research and found plenty of sustainable clothing brands I could get those smaller items from.
For all my major clothing needs though, op shops became my sanctuary.
Much like icecream, secondhand shopping is a perfect cure for any mood or situation.
It feels great (and perhaps this is the storyteller in me) to give clothing a second life.
On top of that, prices are often cheaper and the clothes much more exciting.
The shelves, stacked with weird and unique outfits, are a world of exciting possibilities, and I’ve since never felt the need to return to fast fashion.
Granted, secondhand stores aren’t always the best if you’re looking for something specific.
This is where online platforms come in handy.
I often find myself scrolling through the Neighbourly market for a particular pair of jeans or some heels to suit an occasion.
Relieving a neighbour of something that is cluttering their home is a great payoff on multiple levels: I can walk down the streets feeling amazing, and they’ve ticked off their spring clean.
So, without further ado, I encourage you to give it a try. Why not turn to secondhand stores for your clothing desires, with the small exception of an eco-friendly brand for those times you need something specific?
If you’re on the other end of the chain and want to get rid of items, try donating or selling them on the Neighbourly market.
You’ll bring someone joy and perhaps make a friend at the same time (plus, it’s free to list).