Why second hand first hand?
The most logical argument to why you should choose second hand first hand would definitely be this one: Second hand items don't consume any further resources because of the simple fact that they’ve already been made. To not use or wear already existing (and still functional) pre-loved items would first of all be such a waste.
If we go a bit deeper into why second hand is the better option, with our dear planet in mind, we’re helping to reduce the massive water waste (and of course, all the chemical pollution that unfortunately comes with the production process).
But wait, is second hand clothing really ethical?
When you choose to do your shopping at a second hand store, instead of giving your money to companies who basically profit from exploitative labor work, you make an ethical choice of action. Although it’s important to state that the specific garment you buy second hand doesn’t automatically turn into an ethical one, since it could originally be from a fast fashion company. Regardless of the garment and it’s origin, you’re still making an ethical purchase by buying the item pre-loved since the production would’ve gone to waste otherwise.
Reduce fast fashion demand
By going second hand, and by simply talking to your friends and family about it, you definitely help the reduction of fast fashion demand. If your friend is looking for a cool outfit for the party next weekend, try suggesting a visit to a second hand store instead of a fast fashion brand! And - if you’re already a second hand/vintage shark who already knows the deal, make sure you spread the word and influence the people around you with your amazing outfits and bargains! Just by doing that, you’re already contributing to the good cause in so many ways. High five!
Create your own unique style
”Oh, thanks! I actually bought it second hand!”
To give that answer to someone who compliments your outfit is a satisfaction every time, right? You know that the possibility of someone else wearing the exact same blazer/dress/pants/bag/necklace is really small. When you find your treasure in a second hand store, you know that there’s only one hanging on that hanger. Everything comes in one, not in 15, samples. You create your own way of expressing yourself with your own style, that in combination with the knowledge of the fact that no production process had to be done all over for you to embrace your wardrobe with your new finds - It’s a pretty good combination! (Pssst! - Are you worried about manufacturing chemicals found in new clothes? If yes, with second hand fashion you can assume that the item has been washed at least a few times, which means that the potential chemicals have already been washed away!)
Money
This probably doesn’t come as a surprise, but if you’re a shopaholic already, choosing second hand when it comes to shopping really allows you to save money (assuming that you’re not only into the more exclusive vintage brands which, obviously, won’t let you save just as much…)
Second hand/vintage fashion last longer
This doesn’t apply to items coming from a fast fashion brand, obviously. But a lot of vintage garments were being produced many years ago when fast fashion production wasn’t even a world wide thing. The quality was made to last, to say the least. With that being said, you won’t have to worry about any poor quality a lot of the time. As mentioned prior, the item has also been washed several times which means that any potential damage, wrinkles or fading would’ve already occurred way long before you came in and fell in love with it! Good, right?
Last but not least…
If you’re a ”beginner” at this whole second hand concept - Do yourself this favor by making a list of second hand stores nearby and go there without any strong expectations. Make sure you have a good amount of time since you don’t want any stress while looking around. Keep an open mind, try on a bunch of clothes even if they don’t seem to fit the way you want. Play around with different styles even if it doesn’t end up with you buying anything! It’s like sushi - You probably don’t enjoy it the very first time, but by time you’ll more or less get obsessed. So, run to the nearest second hand shop and make it fun!