As Christmas and Boxing Day approach— Jeff Bezos sitting on his gold-plated chair beaming— how can we curb our shopping habits in line with sustainability? There are stores scattered across the city that preach sustainability by using recycled plastics and food waste to create products. Thrifting provides a way to shop for cheap and find eclectic vintage finds.
Black Diamond Vintage, located in the neighborhood of Parkdale, is a champion for sustainability. Co-owned by Sierra Leedham and Dara Moshonas, their curated collection of vintage pieces really takes thrifting to the next level. With pieces from as early as the ‘50s, they stand out with rich patterns that take you back in time. Thrifting is one of my favorite past times as it is more than just shopping. As Toronto hosts many amazing thrift stores, why is this one so unique?
Their pieces really can fit into any wardrobe and add some spice, but it’s more than that. They push for uniqueness with their clothes but also provide a platform for social justice. Their Instagram feed, while promoting fun clothes, also provides a guide for Black Lives Matter support. They use their platform to discuss political issues and cheer for the underrepresented.
Sustainability and thrifting has, yes, become a fad but that shouldn’t be an issue. As we see fast fashion contributing to the rise in landfills, we should be conscious of how we shop. In Canada, we throw away about 46 kilograms of fabric a year, which is about 12 percent of municipal landfills. We bring reusable bags to the grocery store and recycle, but there’s always more to be done. We may be addicted to the gratification of buying, especially low-cost items. But that’s why thrifting is the best of both worlds. Thrifting does provide an abundance that’s similar to fast fashion, but if we recycle and upcycle these items, then we keep them out of the landfills.
Besides their eye for style, when COVID-19 hit Toronto like a brick wall, Black Diamond provided yet another resource: a community fridge. Community fridges and pantries have been popping up throughout the city, and hold anything from produce to feminine products. The goal of these amenities is to provide clean and fresh produce, and contribute to the community. Community Fridges Toronto has an Instagram page that is dedicated to this specific social cause.
Stores throughout Toronto provide alternate ways to shop. They promote sustainability while also staying connected to the community. They provide this sense of connection in a way that big box stores do not. As the fight for climate change is upon us, think about sustainability and get your thrift on!