by Elle Magaña Mireles

Shopping secondhand is a powerful method in becoming responsible consumers of clothing. This can be done by supporting charitable thrift stores, shopping from BIPOC- owned thrift stores, being intentional while shopping secondhand and how clothing is donated. It will not only help you look good while doing good but it will address social and environmental issues within the fashion industry. 

Buy From Charitable Thrift Stores 

Choose to buy from thrift stores that are associated with charitable causes or nonprofit organizations. This will help support local communities by creating local jobs and also promote social good through your purchasing power. So take time to research local charitable thrift stores and online secondhand platforms with missions you want to help. You really can find amazing pieces by shopping responsibly at secondhand stores. 

Support BIPOC Owned Thrift Stores 

Be intentional on which thrift stores you want to support. By supporting BIPOC-owned thrift stores you will effectively elevate and empower BIPOC entrepreneurs. This helps diversify the economy and uplifts the voices and missions of those that need to be heard. Make sure to research local businesses owned by black, indigenous, and people of color the next time you want to go thrifting. We must level the playing field and be allies through our purchasing power. 

“When consumers support BIPOC-owned brands like Vida Vintage they are making a decision to support individuals and communities that typically get overlooked and underfunded. That being said, I would encourage consumers to support BIPOC-owned companies because it shows these communities that they are truly valued for the products and services they bring to the world.”

- Andreina Cuevas from Vida Vintage 

Create A Shopping List 

Make sure to sit down and think about what you need in your closet. Creating a list before buying from thrift stores can help prevent unnecessary purchases. This is important because thrifting can tempt you to purchase random items because of how cheap it is. The more intentional the list, the more likely you will find pieces you will use for years to come. It will also save you time and money in the long run. So consider taking ten minutes to sit down with a pen and piece of paper. This list will give you a clear idea on what you will be looking for once you’re in the store. 

Donate Clothing to Thrift Stores 

The disposal of clothing is important in providing options for future consumers to thrift responsibly. Consider taking your unwanted clothing to charitable thrift stores, participating in clothing swaps or even reselling them on online secondhand platforms. Make sure every piece is washed and organized so that it can be resold. Never donate anything that is dirty, stained, ripped and worn beyond repair. This will make it harder for items to be reused and to find a new home. 

Don’t Shop the Men’s Sections 

If you don’t need to buy men’s clothing, then avoid that section. This is because this section is often smaller than the women’s section. This can make the process of finding affordable options for low-income individuals harder and more resource intensive. If you do need something in the men’s sections, make sure you will wear it for years to come. This will help you love each piece in your closet by considering its impact on the world.