With spring here and summer fast approaching, it’s time to switch out the bulky winter clothes for some lighter ones. While trendy pieces of clothing are fun and fashionable, they’re not always the most sustainable option. They tend to be cheaply made and quickly fall apart. One of my favorite ways to find new pieces and switch up my wardrobe is through buying secondhand items or items from small businesses. Nowadays, you no longer have to drive to the nearest consignment shop or thrift store because you can do it right from your phone. While there’s nothing like seeing the clothing in person, online thrift apps have such a wide selection and variety of clothing and accessories. Thrift apps, also, are not only convenient, but they’re also extremely fun to sift through and find particular items. Some of my favorite features about these apps are that you can filter everything from your size, the exact color of clothing you’re looking for, and the specific brand. This makes it extremely easy to find clothing that both fits you and matches your specific style.
Some of my favorite thrifting apps include Depop, Poshmark, Mercari, and ThredUp. Each of these apps function in a very similar way, allowing you to find specific pieces of clothing or brands that you’re searching for. These apps make it easy to find on-trend clothes, but in a more sustainable way since you’re buying something secondhand. Another added bonus is that secondhand clothing is a much more affordable option, especially for college students on a budget! These apps also let you sell your own clothes, which not only earns you cash but also helps further promote clothing upcycling. As an avid user of these apps, I’ve been able to find many unique pieces of clothing at much more affordable prices than say Urban Outfitters. The clothing sold on apps like Poshmark and Depop range from vintage items that no one else has, to name brands like Free People, Lululemon, Madewell, Patagonia, etc. I truly mean it when I say there’s something for everyone on secondhand clothing websites!
While I know it’s not realistic to shop secondhand for all your clothing, it’s certainly a great alternative to fast fashion brands. Some other great ways to shop sustainably when you can’t buy secondhand are to support eco-friendly clothing brands, use a rental service, or shop at local and small businesses. Eco-friendly clothing companies tend to be on the pricier side, but I think it’s a worthwhile investment if you know the pieces will last for years to come. Some of the sustainable brands that I’d like to try are Everlane, For Days, Lucy and Yak, Siizu, Nu-in Fashion, Pact, and Tentree. Additionally, renting clothing is another sustainable option since it allows you to wear the clothing for a certain period of time and then send the items back once you no longer want them. This is perfect if you’re someone that gets easily bored of your clothing and need frequent wardrobe refreshes. Companies like Rent the Runway and Fashion Pass are two great options for clothing rental services. Not only is shopping sustainably better for the environment, but buying secondhand clothing and supporting sustainable companies means you’re likely not going to have the same outfits as everyone else
Links to the apps and stores mentioned: