Over the past few years, second-hand shopping has become more accessible, fashionable, and essential. Vintage fashion and thrifting have become a staple for many Gen Z individuals for several reasons, including sustainability, affordability, and uniqueness.
A recent ShipStation survey found that over a third of shoppers buy pre-owned items over new ones monthly.
Amy Bannerman is a pioneer of pre-loved fashion. She questions why people don’t shop second-hand more often. She highlights the affordability and individual style achievable through second-hand shopping. Bannerman has styled celebrities like Dua Lipa and Sophie Turner. She believes that fashion doesn’t need to be new to be exciting.
Top thrifting experts provide tips on why and how to shop second-hand in September.
Why shop second-hand?
It’s no secret that the quality of high-street clothes has declined in recent years. The rise of fast fashion has meant garments are commissioned to be made quicker, cheaper, and in higher quantities.
This, roughly translated, means dresses are no longer lined, jumpers have too short sleeves and loose threads are commonplace. These aspects have arisen from the ‘quantity over quality’ mantra repeated in the fashion industry over recent years.
Furthermore, fast-fashion garments are no longer as affordable as when they first appeared on the shelves: an unlined blouse from Zara costs $59.
Where to start
According to sustainable fashion influencer Besma Whayeb, figuring out your style and what makes you feel confident is key to successful second-hand shopping. Once you’ve done this, you can refine your searches on second-hand websites with specific keywords.
Second-hand shopping isn’t just about buying. Becky Chorlton, who goes by @BeckysBazaar online, earns around 3,000 a month from live-streaming the sale of her old clothes.
Expert Quick Tips
Measurements
Second-hand shopping requires knowing your measurements, as sizes can vary depending on the decade and location of the clothing. This allows you to play around with the fit of clothing items, accessorizing and altering.
Hacking high end
Second-hand shopping also applies to high fashion. This year, New York and London Fashion Week will feature eBay’s first-ever pre-loved show, curated by Amy Bannerman, and archival pieces from designers like Vivienne Westwood and Molly Goddard.
Rinse and repeat
According to Lucy Norris, regular visits to your local charity shop increase your chances of finding something special, as the inventory changes frequently.
Alerts and alarms
Setting alerts on large platforms like Vinted or finding second-hand sources for specific brands can save you time by avoiding searching through unwanted items.
Fabrics
Whayeb always avoids synthetic fibers. “You can determine low quality by examining its construction, seams, and care label,” she says.
Out of fashion
Bannerman’s chief rule to hacking the best vintage finds is to shop out of season.
“Every time winter comes back, people look for that same trending coat. Moreover, it will mean that your chances of winning that item are lower, and it will also result in an inflated price.
“Beat the crowds by shopping out of season. Look for that coat when it’s hot, or the dress when it’s cold.”
Nail the bid
There’s more to bidding than giving your highest figure”I recommend bidding a more unexpected and uneven figure than others might. Bidding just before the auction ends increases your chances of winning. For example, if you bid $52.86 while someone else has bid $50, you are more likely to win.”
