Shop Sustainably by Thrifting

A garment or fashion item goes through an entire process from when it is manufactured, shipped, marketed, sold, and worn. An incredible amount of labor and resources can go into producing just one garment, so I think its safe to say that every garment should be appreciated and cared for. The current practices of the fast fashion industry are often terrible for the environment, which is why “slow fashion” is so often encouraged in today’s discourse about fashion, styling, and consumerism. One way to join in on the “slow fashion” movement and build your wardrobe in a way that is kinder to the environment AND your wallet is to shop second-hand, or thrift. You can find SO many gorgeous and quality items by shopping second-hand, and you will often get to wear something that is unique instead of what so many others have (although it can also be trendy as well). In this new blog post (I haven’t blogged in SO long right!) I will share great places to shop second-hand, a couple fabulous items I’ve bought second-hand, and first-hand insight on how industry professionals buy and sell second-hand items.

If you follow me on here or on Instagram, you most likely know that one of my personal favorite places purchase pre-owned items, used or brand-new, is Poshmark. Poshmark is an app where users buy and sell fashion items and apparel they no longer want or need in their closet. I have bought many brand-named items on Poshmark, from LoveShackFancy, Lilly Pulitzer, J-Crew, Vineyard Vines, Kate Spade and more. Izzy D’Esposito, Fashion and Retail student and President of the Fashion and Retail Association at Lynn University loves Poshmark as well. She says, ”Upcycling is about being kind to not only the planet but to your wardrobe as well. I sell most of my clothes that I no longer wear on Poshmark, a platform where users can buy and sell used or new clothing and accessories. Another person can enjoy what I used to love, making everyone happy in the end.”

dress by Duffield Lane, purchased on Poshmark

Thrifting and buying items second-hand ensures that the item is still being used and loved, instead of creating environmental waste. The RealReal, Fashionphile, and the ThredUp app are just a few places to purchase second-hand, used, or brand-new high-quality designer items at discounted prices. At thrift stores, designer or high-street items can be highly affordable. Dr. Lisa Benedict, Ph.D, Professor of Marketing and Fashion and Retail at Lynn University who has decades of experience in the industry states ”One of my favorite past times is finding a bargain at a second-hand, consignment, or thrift store. Not only because of the lower price, but also because you can find designer brands at thrift store prices. One can purchase a new wardrobe for under $250 if you play your cards right and know the days on which discounts are offered. For instance, Goodwill Industries will offer additional discounts on certain merchandise categories on different days of the week. Further, World Thrift in Lakeworth, Florida offers daily discounts on the price tag color, you just need to check the board when you walk into the store. But go early, and bring cash, because this is their only form of payment accepted.”

You can truly find beautiful clothing, accessories, and other fashion items by shopping hand and still look like you are dressed in brand new and expensive apparel. Thrifting and shopping second-hand allow you to shop in a way that is kinder to the environment, and you can still look like a million bucks! Follow me here and on Instagram at @shewearsstrength25 to see more of my thrifted outfits. Where do you like to shop second-hand?

Thank you Izzy D., Dr. Lisa Benedict, and Dr. Andrew Burstine for your input and collaboration!

True Love

Saturdays at the Deerfield Beach Pier in Lilly