What I've Learned From Thrifting: Meg Chellew
“I believe that thrift is essential to well-ordered living.” - John D. Rockefeller. What would our world be without the phenomenon of thrifting? I know everyone has a favorite thrift store item that they can’t get enough, the item that they define as art itself. There is so much that we can learn from thrifting that many of us don’t know. Writer, Environmentalist, & Communications Director for “theslownotion.com” has done us the honor of gracing us with a beautiful article on thrifting and what she’s personally learned from it.
To create my own happiness I take goofy photos (with friends), smile, eat tasty foods, and create outlandish outfit opportunities. In order to look exceptional, one must source unique wares. This may lead to raiding parents closet’s, grandparents’ closets, friendly clothing swaps, and thrifting.
Thrifting is at least a centuries old practice of resource redistribution.Thrifting has also been a vehicle for philanthropy, ‘cross-class’ dressing, creative reuse, and or acquiring the bare necessities. More and more people are thrifting nowadays; the global secondhand retail market is projected to reach $77 billion according to the 2021 ThredUP and Global Data report.
Millennials and GenZ thrift to acquire one-of-a-kind garments and home goods for resale or personal wardrobe rotation. Environmentalists are inspired to purchase used items in support of a circular economy and rebel against corporate waste. And most, if not all of us, are interested in a good bargain that stays on budget. Thrifting offers excellent compromise between price, quality and luxury.
For all the reasons we chose to or must thrift, there are even more benefits to a secondhand first lifestyle. National Thrift Store Day is August 17th, so consider these wisdoms on your next adventure.
Thrifting has taught me to accept disappointment
One of my first major lessons from thrifting was learning to accept disappointment. Not every treasure hut is successful, and that’s to be expected. The challenge of sourcing desirable and essential objects creates an opportunity for reward and conscientious consumption. I enter a thrift store with curiosity and an open mind, instead of product-specific expectations.
Thrifting helps me be wary of overconsumption
On the heels of a secondhand shopping letdown, I have discovered another major upside to leaving empty handed – gratitude. I probably don’t need more stuff. (Please note – if thrifting is a primary resource for someone’s livelihood this idea does not apply). I have also become more patient, as sourcing particular items can occur over multiple thrifting trips. When I do encounter desirable goods on a thrift trip, the next step is to think about whether I have space for them, what purpose they would serve in my life, and if it would make me happy to look at or use.
Thrifting encourages me to value stuff and people
Thrifting is a wonderful reminder that we have a responsibility to our belongings and to each other. Shopping secondhand first can help prolong utility, encourage repair, and recognize the human labor which supports our material world. We know that most donated clothing/items aren't actually resold to customers – they are likely sent to a landfill, shredded for industrial use, or baled and exported overseas. Furthermore, second hand puts people at the front and center of the goods exchange. I love meeting and getting to know vendors, learning about the history of certain items, and talking about our shared interests (like thrifting!).
Thrifting motivates me to resist influence from social media/trends
Speaking of small towns, some of my favorite thrift spots are located in cement block buildings with no shoppable websites and absolutely no cell service for miles. I relish these ‘phone-free’ moments where I can focus on the racks and suspend reality with all its distractions. I have the opportunity to find what sparks feeling for me without undue internet influence - I can literally follow my heart that way.
Thrifting supports local businesses
I encourage everyone to seek out local secondhand businesses, antique malls, flea markets, vintage boutiques, thrift shops and small-scale vendors. A gentle reminder that Goodwill and Salvation Army aren’t always the only options in town. My life is better for some of the genuine friendships I have forged over thrifting, local travel, and handmade creations. There are so many lovely creatives out there wanting to meet, share and connect with you. These exchanges are infinitely more pleasant and uplifting than big business spending.
Thrifting is a way to express and inspire creativity
Thrifting is reactive – and can be exciting! You never know what you’ll encounter. Opening yourself to the possibilities of a good time and good finds can unlock unknown creative powers from within. You may discover a new hobby, your favorite outfit, or a new friend.
Whether you are planning your first thrift adventure or you’re a seasoned secondhand scavenger, there is plenty of ‘stuff’ to go around. At the same time, be mindful of your true needs when shopping secondhand, and consider how your donations and purchases impact access for marginalized groups. Consider your local ‘Buy Nothing Groups’ and charitable organizations (the free store in Wilkinsburg, PA is an excellent example) to keep prosperity in the community. For more insights on slow consumption, high style, and low waste, visit theslownotion.com to keep the conversation going.
One of the best parts about perspective, is that there isn’t a shortage of it. Thank you Meg, for informing our readers, and redefining our perspective and understanding of thrifting. It is people like you that our making our world a better place. Your commitment to intentionality as it pertains to sustainability and environmentalism is appreciated and admired.
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