Once considered taboo and a last resort, thrifting has exploded in popularity over the past couple of years thanks to Gen-Z. Thrifting is the buying and selling of used items, especially clothing. This surge in popularity has caused the resale market to reach a projected $350 billion by 2027. But what exactly has caused this rise in popularity, and is thrifting as beneficial as we think?

One of the main causes of this boom is Gen-Z’s focus on sustainability. The UN reported that around 10% of global carbon emissions come from the fashion industry, particularly the fast fashion industry. By buying secondhand clothing, Gen-Z is changing its consumption values to focus on eliminating waste and preventing environmental damage in the creation of new clothes. Apps such as Poshmark, ThredUp, and Depop have responded to this rise in demand, bridging the world of thrifting with digital convenience. According to a ThredUp report, buying secondhand clothing instead of new can reduce carbon emissions by an average of 25%. 

However, many argue that thrifting isn’t all positive. The recent rise in demand for second-hand clothing has driven up prices and made the clothes unaffordable for their original target consumer base: low-income individuals and families. This gentrification leads many to argue that Gen Z is forgetting one of the most important purposes of thrifting. 

Overall, Gen-Z’s obsession with thrifting seems to be generally positive. Younger generations can find sustainable unique pieces in an age of fast-fashion cookie-cutter clothing. However, it’s important to remember that it’s vital that thrifting remains accessible to those who need it most. Are you going thrifting this weekend? 



References

“ActNow for Zero-Waste Fashion.” United Nations Sustainable Development, 15 Aug. 2019, https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2019/08/actnow-for-zero-waste-fashion/.

Benissan, Ezreen. “Gen Z Will Drive Explosive Growth in Secondhand Sales, Says Thredup.” Vogue Business, 5 Apr. 2023, https://www.voguebusiness.com/sustainability/gen-z-will-drive-explosive-growth-in-secondhand-sales-says-thredup.

Mullen, Lauren, and Kate Huun. “A Sustainable Guide to Thrifting.” Environmental Center, 15 Dec. 2023, https://www.colorado.edu/ecenter/2023/12/15/sustainable-guide-thrifting.