Second-hand clothing: These are the advantages and disadvantages
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in all areas of life. The fashion industry in particular is increasingly relying on recycled materials and reducing packaging waste. Nevertheless, there are companies that do not act so progressively. For eco-conscious consumers who still want to shop sustainably, second-hand clothing is often the preferred choice – especially for those who can't afford the expensive eco-fashion brands. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of this option? We've examined it for you.
What exactly is second-hand clothing?
For those who don't know much about this term yet, we want to provide clarity. The term "second-hand clothing" comes from English and means something like "second hand". These are garments that are no longer needed and are now looking for a new life, so to speak. This gives the garments a second home, there is no waste of materials and someone is happy about a new garment that was only discarded by someone else.
There are a few disadvantages to second-hand clothing
Second-hand clothing is something great, no question. But there are also disadvantages. What these are and whether skepticism is justified, you can find out here.
1. Limited range of sizes
Many second-hand skeptics complain that used garments are often only available in one size. Logically, they are unique pieces. Especially the purchase of trousers, which is already difficult for many, is not exactly made easier by the lack of sizes. However, if you search online, you will notice how large the selection is. Conversely, however, this also means that you have to search longer until you find the right garment
By the way: You can find five great online second hand shops here.
2. Some people can't stand the smell of second-hand clothes
In fact, quite a few people have a real problem with the smell of second-hand shops and the clothes sold there. Surely you also know this musty cellar smell that seems to be unavoidable. But come on: As soon as you wash the clothes, you won't notice anything about it. By the way, with used clothing sold via Vinted, the Trift Shop smell cannot be observed.
3. Nothing for specific desired products
If you are looking for a specific product, a certain cut or a special brand, it can be difficult in the second-hand shop. But if you're in the mood for inspiration or a new look, you've come to the right place. And who knows: Maybe your find is much cooler than your desired product would have been.
Personal pain threshold: socks, shoes, underwear, etc.
There are garments that are never or at least rarely bought. Because even if second-hand clothing makes sense, everyone has their personal pain threshold. This is usually achieved when it comes to underwear or socks.
It's perfectly fine to draw a line. Because even if socks are out of the question, it is sustainable to buy shirts or pants secondhand. It is important that you feel comfortable with the purchase - because second-hand clothing basically has a lot of advantages!
Advantages of second-hand clothing
Away from mainstream fashion, you can find real gems in second-hand shops. In addition, you avoid someone wearing the exact same dress at the next party. And of course you do something for the environment. Second hand shopping also has these advantages:
1. Cheap fun
A big plus point of second-hand clothing is its often low price. So you can also get quality branded clothing at a bargain price. This prevents you from reaching for cheap clothes for reasons of savings, even though you know about their short lifespan.
2. Learn to appreciate clothes again
Second-hand finds are often real centerpieces. Maybe that's because of the nostalgia factor, maybe it's because of the special cuts and trends of 80s and 90s fashion. Especially when you get hold of a branded piece cheaply, the appreciation is particularly high.
3. Sustainability advantages
Probably the most important point, however, is and remains sustainability. This is because no further resources are used to buy the product. In addition, the resources used continue to be used and do not end up in the garbage.
Second-hand clothing: In the end, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages
The disadvantages of second-hand clothing are vanishingly small compared to the advantages. Second-hand offers you a great opportunity to make surprising finds online or offline and maybe even dust off a designer piece. Nostalgia factor, affordable favorite pieces and of course a huge plus on your karma account - it doesn't get any better than that.
source : Second Hand Clothing: These Are the Pros and Cons - wmn.de