Resale Fashion and Our Generation

Secondhand shopping is rapidly taking over the market. As the secondary market flourishes, a resale generation has emerged. Here's why our generation will likely play a huge role in the booming market for pre-loved goods.

Sustainability

Fashion is one of the most pollutive industries in the world. Millennials and Gen-Z’s are looking for ways to reduce their impact, and resale is a trend that feeds directly into this consumer need. According to Market Watch, eco-brands like Patagonia and All Birds are gaining 57% more interest on thredUP, an online thrift store that allows customers to buy and sell high-quality secondhand clothing, since COVID-19. By secondhand shopping consumers are able to extend the life cycle of the items they buy and reduce their environmental impact. This is very important to Millennials and Gen-Z’s as it helps them justify their purchases.

Social Media

Although many would not admit it, many conscious social media users feel the need to change their outfits more often than ever. The social stigma of posting a picture in the same outfit is real, and in the curated world of social media, nobody wants to be seen in the same combination twice. In past years this issue has given rise to the fast fashion industry, but the younger, more ethically conscious generations have begun buying secondhand to combat this. They are also able to sell the clothes that they have already been seen in!

Style

Cycles are a very common concept in fashion trends. Around every fifteen years, fashion trends repeat themselves. As retailers redesign clothes to fit into these recycled trends, Millennials and Gen-Zs have found new options. For the most authentic look, these generations are relying on secondhand styles. thredUp, for example, has a huge social media presence. This allows customers to be met where they are - a great marketing technique to capture the attention of these generations!

Bargain Hunting & Extra Income

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers of all ages have picked up on the pre-loved trend. With the pandemic partly closing down the economy, consumers who were conscious about their wallets not only started secondhand shopping, but also selling. This circular flow gave a huge boost to the presale market. With the recent extra time you may find at home, cleaning out closets and selling pre-loved clothing can be a great side hustle!