Unethical is common lingo in the clothing market. A survey carried out by Fashion checker revealed that 93% of brands aren't paying workers a minimum living wage.
Disclaimer - NO, thrifting does not put an end to this. After all, ‘the things that you are buying realistically are still being made in unsatisfactory conditions, people are not being paid what they deserve to be paid’, Cruickshanks says. However, it adds an edge of consideration to the process.
It gives effort the respect it deserves
How often have you bought new items on a whim only to keep up with the trend loop? How many times has that same item ended up dumped in the bottom of your wardrobe after a one time use? Probably more than any of us is ready to admit. Consumers are often oblivious to the effort put into one garment, just for you to wear it once and toss it into the bin. ‘People have put blood sweat and tears into a garment, for you to only put it once, Cruisckshanks adds.
When thrifting, although you are not changing these working conditions, ‘you’re honouring the work that garment workers have put into it' , the stylist adds. By giving items a second chance at life, one is making their effort and hard work worth what it is. Also, as thrifting slows you down, it usually results in more conscious buying. ‘You buy what you need’, Cruickshanks says. Therefore, rather than adding to the demand, you are making it stagnate.
2. A more positive aftermath
Charity shops usually have a positive impact on the community: Oxfam works to end poverty, Shelter Scotland helps homeless people or those with bad housing and, The British Heart Foundation funds additional research into heart and circulatory diseases. For instance, in 2021, BHF invested £74.2 million in life-saving research and support for heart patients. Similarly, when you thrift online in apps like vinted, your money is going to someone who is usually selling because they need the extra income.
If you buy from fast fashion retailers, the money mostly ends up in the owners pocket. In other words, rather than making the rich richer, thrift shopping strives to help those more in need.
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