The Evolution of Thrifting

As a college student, it is often hard to afford and indulge in shopping habits when buying textbooks and paying for rent usually come first. Whenever I am hit with the shopping itch that can’t be scratched, I know there is always one solution: thrifting.Whether you are shopping at your local GoodWill or at a recycled clothing boutique in New York City, hunting for the staple vintage piece for your wardrobe is made easier by thrifting.

Image Courtesy: Avalon Exchange Florida via Instagram

Over the past couple of decades, the trend of thrifting has become increasingly popular within mainstream society due to its emphasis on sustainability and affordability. However, in recent years, social media has transformed what used to be a financial alternative to shopping into one of the biggest hobbies in fashion. But where did this trend first begin?

During the nineteenth century, the industrial revolution swept through the nation. Cities began to grow and people from all over began flocking to the country of dreams - The United States. This era of opportunity also changed the game of the fashion industry as factories introduced a mass-production of clothing, making clothes more affordable for everyone. Now that fashion was being mass produced, new clothes were seen as a social status and the idea of repurposing one’s old garments began to disappear. Despite this stigma against reusing clothes, thrifting continued throughout the century as the first Salvation Army was opened in 1897 and the first Goodwill followed shortly in 1902.

The roaring twenties were also a pivotal time period within the evolution of thrifting. Thrift stores started to grow in large numbers as more and more second-hand clothing shops were opened. Instead of being seen as “junk”, repurposed clothing stores began rebranding in order to appeal to a more fashionable customer base. Since then, thrift stores have remained an important part of fashion culture.

Flash forward to today and the thrifting trends still dominate the shopping industry. When looking at why the trend has carried on into the new generation, we can partly thank the internet for the vintage phenomena’s increasing popularity. Social media influencers, such as Youtuber “Best Dressed” and Emma Chamberlin, have highlighted just how fashionable thrifting can be by showcasing thrifted outfit ideas and finds on their platforms.

Like many good trends, they often come to an end. However, the hobby of thrifting vintage clothing is likely not going anywhere. Finding that perfect piece at Goodwill is exhilarating, and once you start thrifting it's often hard to stop.

Strike Out,

Writer: Madison Sloan

Editors: Lauren Cich & Marissa DeMaio

St. Augustine