The Pros and Cons of Thrifting

With entering a new decade, new styles and trends are bound to be introduced and popularized. As this occurs, people follow along until the new craze either fizzles out — or receives criticism. Thrifting, which has become a huge trend in 2020, has had a lot of people debating if it’s really a good idea or not.

On TikTok, a popular social media app, many people use their platforms to show off their different styles in order to inspire different audiences. Many influencers started introducing the idea of vintage clothing, and soon, it became one of the biggest fashion trends of the year.

Thrift stores are one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get these “vintage” clothes; most of the inventory is from adults that donate their old clothes. Many teenagers then took this as a way to easily get clothes that fit the trendy vintage look everyone is going for – but, in doing so, they have overlooked the fundamental purpose of these thrift stores.

For instance, Goodwill is a popular thrift store that many people go to but not for the same reason as a lot of teenagers: the store’s goal is to help people who don’t have a lot of money afford clothing. Places like Goodwill always encourage people in the area to donate clothes to their business, so they can give back to people in need.

Now, what people don’t realize is that when they are going thrifting for the trend, they are taking away clothes from people who actually need them, leaving a limited supply to work with. Since the trends are so popular, many stores are facing a shortage because the amount of customers at thrift stores has increased overwhelmingly.

Many people don’t seem to realize how much harm this does to people who really need the clothes. Even though it might boost their style and save some money, it takes away the whole point of the business. It’s important to realize why the stores are there and look for better options when trying to find clothes, such as stores that specialize in making specific styles that suit the trend. Next time you buy from a thrift store, think twice about if it’s really worth it in the long run.