During New York Fashion Week this year, eBay hosted the first-ever secondhand clothing runway show. Famous TikToker and model, Wisdom Kaye, handpicked these looks of pre-worn clothing. He incorporated designs from Off-White, Khaite and Simone Rocha.
I think “Endless Runway” is going to change the way a lot of people view shopping secondhand. Vintage clothing is taking over this generation, with the word “vintage” being searched on eBay globally more than 1,000 times per minute. Not only is shopping for vintage clothing more accessible and can be less pricey, it is also better for the environment.
When you buy secondhand clothing you are actively participating in reducing the demand for fast fashion and the amount of clothing going to waste. It might seem like a daunting task for one individual but one less item of fast fashion being purchased is one less item going to a landfill.
In my own life, I am a huge fan of secondhand clothing. Most of my wardrobe is thrifted and I have so much fun shopping secondhand. The possibilities are truly endless, with thrift stores having a variety of sizes, styles and colors. You can mix and match and find your own unique style while also saving money and feeling good about helping the environment.
Another perk of thrifting is the possibility of supporting local small businesses in your area. A lot of thrift stores are run by charities or local organizations that use the money they make to help their communities flourish.
Boycotting fast fashion is a lot easier than it may seem, and I encourage anyone to participate in buying secondhand. The benefits are innumerable and there are not any cons. Look cool, feel good and make an effort to help our environment.
oparisi@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @wisdm, Instagram
