The difference: Buying secondhand takes something that's already in circulation off the market. It's easy to run back to the Sheins of the world when a shirt is $8, but remember that much of what's being sold secondhand is just as affordable. That's the equivalent of one garbage truck (Opens in a new tab) full of clothes being burned or dumped every second. The fast fashion industry is a notorious contributor to landfills, and is responsible for nearly 10 percent of global carbon emissions. Shopping secondhand is also one of the easiest ways to live more sustainably. That seller doesn't know it, but her not wanting those random shoes made my life.ĭon't let snobby thrift stores who accept nothing bully you into thinking your wardrobe sucks. I'll never forget the rush I felt after finding a pair of platform SK8-Hi Vans in my size on Depop after months of seeing 'Out of stock' everywhere else. There's a market for the stuff that's too cool for Plato's Closet and the stuff that's too basic for Buffalo Exchange. You'd be surprised at what buyers are actively hunting down, especially when prices are cheaper than buying new.

I've recommended resale apps to friends, and much of their hesitation stemmed from the same place: 'No one wants my stuff.' But that's not necessarily true. How to donate clothes in the most ethical ways possible

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