By Sunnie
The way we equate status with our clothing choices is constantly evolving. From traditional ways of shopping in department stores to more luxury shopping along the lines of Gucci stores, many of us only glance inside. The newest trend of overconsumption of fast fashion, which was encouraged by the lack of access to in-person shopping during the pandemic, has dominated pop culture in the latest years with its ease and affordability; it provides the latest fashion trends with the click of a button. Even with the buzz around companies like Shein, an online clothing store that sells inexpensive clothing items, one form of shopping that has retained its fan base is thrifting.
In this tried and true form of give and take, the cycle of waste remains relatively low, and the ability to collect a wardrobe from any era and genre on a budget is widely attainable. The fact that this form of shopping provides access to people of all social standing with the ability to own clothes that represent their sense of style and personality gives me faith that the future may hold a more sustainable norm in the coming years.
Despite the practicality of thrifting, this style of consumption has not always been a socially acceptable option. After the boom of thrifting with the release of “Thrift Shop” by the artist Macklemore, the culture around thrifting for Gen Z has naturally become a part of our mainstream culture, including social media “thrift hauls” and second-hand thrifting apps like Poshmark and Depop. In the generation preceding us, it was immensely embarrassing to be caught with an off-brand bag in the clubs or in the high school hallways. Now in your average Target, you will be able to find all the latest fashion trends for affordable prices, and it is a normal occurrence to have more access to fashion than we could have before.
I am impressed with how quickly a generation of people can change how we view fashion and consumption, for better or worse. It is imperative we all do our part in limiting our consumption; though the public stigma around affordable fashion has made a sharp turn; I encourage you not to fall into overconsumption. Remember, the money you save with fast fashion always comes from the pockets of people who worked for the dollars you’re keeping.
Sunnie is a digital nomad who has been traveling Central and South America for half a year. With a background in African American and African Studies coupled with environmental science and sustainability studies. She is passionate about social justice and the world that contains it. You can contact her at info@tncpnews.com.
