Is thrifting actually sustainable?

Pre-loved clothing, an idea popularised by influencers and social media. Thrift store haul videos are widely consumed on social media, in which influencers display an excessive number of items they purchased from thrift stores. As a result, thrifting has grown into its own social media trend.

Thrifting, to shop at a thrift store/op shop, garage sale or flea market and purchase pre-loved items at discounted prices. Typically, the items or clothing are in good condition to be used by a new owner.

Thrifting helps the environment by preventing clothing ending up in landfill, reducing carbon and chemical pollution caused by clothing production and lowers water consumption. Thrifting makes clothing affordable. In addition, majority of thrift stores/op shops donate to and support charities, some of which may provide environmental or humanitarian assistance.

On social media, thrifting is portrayed as one of the most sustainable options. However, is the thrifting sensation really that sustainable?

Due to the social media trend of thrifting, it appeals to several different socioeconomic demographics, including higher socioeconomic groups. Individuals are preferring thrifting as it provides a ‘good deal’ on branded clothing more affordably. However, thrifting is a by-product of fast fashion and mass consumerism. The second-hand clothing industry is fuelled by short-term fast fashion trends. As a result, a large amount of clothing is left for the second-hand market. The low price of thrifting can encourage overconsumption, similar to fast fashion. Despite thrifting extending a clothing piece’s life cycle, it benefits from excessive fast fashion production and does not cease the overproduction that sustains it. Hence, whilst thrifting is beneficial in the short-term, it begs the question of whether it will be long term.

Lastly, thrift store gentrification is when wealthy shoppers frequently shop at thrift stores, consequently increased the prices. This makes quality pre-loved clothing items inaccessible to low-income consumers in which thrift stores/op shops are intended for.

Whilst thrifting is a start to making the word a more sustainable and environmentally friendly place, it should not be viewed as the end solution.

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