Most of us have different new year resolutions, but switching from buying fast fashion to investing on vintage, designer or thrift pieces seems to be on everyone’s list.
During the mess that was 2020, individuals who were interested in fashion started to share their looks, tips and go-to thrift shopping stores through social media.
With the pandemic lockdown and job losses, everyone’s shopping budget dropped. But I don’t think it was only because of the money. It’s also because people are finally getting tired of purchasing from fast fashion brands that have had ethical issues in the past.
The lessons I learned were to shop or invest on pieces that you can get the most out of. Think of that well thought item you found at a thrift store during this winter time, can you use it during other seasons? Are you able to create multiple looks with it?
If the answer is yes, you just scored a piece! And throughout, I noticed it doesn’t all have to be vintage, pre-loved designer here. As long as it wasn’t from Zara or Urban Outfitters, it fits this shopping process.
The second main reason that makes people shop for pieces instead of trendy fashion item is to stop their characteristics from turning into meaningless, fad apparel items.
Trends are great to follow, especially when you’re building your likes and dislikes in fashion. But buying an item you just saw on social media that you thought might look great isn’t necessarily the best sustainable method. Online fashionistas taught me that you should shop for how you wish to look.
There are multiple ways for you to discover this shopping method, but I recommend Depop, a big community of sellers and shoppers. I know it seems like a lot, but I promise that if you keep digging you will find the apparel items of your dreams. There’s also Vestiaire Collective—this site is for those who like to scout vintage or modern designer items that have been pre-loved, but are for purchase at a discounted price.
This shopping method of buying pieces instead of trends is a great way to explore and create your wardrobe. And if you’ve already established your wardrobe and wish to improve your shopping practice, this is also for you.
