The Joys of Purchasing Secondhand

The Joys of Purchasing Secondhand

Renee McIntire

One of my New Years resolutions is to buy secondhand more often - if not always. The goal is to help the planet and keep more and more items out of our landfills. I’m taking baby steps to do my part. 

I’m in my 40's and I wear used clothing on a regular basis and have shopped at secondhand stores my entire life. However, as I examined my closet, I had to face the reality that I still buy A LOT of clothing brand new. I fall for trends like everyone else and I go to the mall with my girlfriends and inevitably buy new things - especially from my favorite brands. (Michael Kors, All Saints, Buffbunny Collection, 

So, taking my New Years resolution seriously, I thought back on some great buys I’ve made secondhand and how they added value to my life. I’m hoping to use this inspiration as proof that I don’t need to be buying new anymore. 

My first thought goes back to my high school days and my obsession with thrift shopping for “old man” suit pants that fit baggy and I would wear them with kids t-shirts that fit a little short and tight. The funkier the color the better! As funny as it sounds - I always got compliments on my unique fashion finds. I was super, super cool.🤣

Another good memory is just the general thrill of the hunt with my friends. Going down all of the aisles - digging for fashion gold. We would load up our cart and then spend the next 2 hours in the fitting rooms putting on a fashion show. Some of the items were serious contenders, while some were just for a laugh.

And everyone knows thrift stores are the best place to find clothing for a costume party and Halloween. My Pippy Longstocking costume was spot on - all thrifted!

 

 Now that I’m a little older, my taste in fashion has shifted. I used to like to change my wardrobe frequently and now I’m more interested in classic pieces that will not go out of style. I have started shopping brands like Chicos, J.Jill, Boden and then a step up from that … I’ve found that Tory Burch really suits my personal style. I’m still amazed how often I find these brands pre-owned in great, clean condition. It makes me wonder why I ever buy anything new. 

Lastly, you might be thinking about some high end brands that you've always dreamed of owning and might think you could never get those items even secondhand. For me, that is Valentino. The price tag on Valentino isn’t in my budget. However, with the trend in secondhand shopping, there are TONS of high end brands online that are pre-owned, professionally authenticated and at a fraction of the retail price. The BEST part of these items being secondhand is the relief of wear & tear.

My husband surprised me for our 10th wedding anniversary with a couple of gorgeous Valentino accessories. Knowing that he did not pay full retail price, took some stress off of me while wearing them out. There is no way to avoid scuffing shoes -- especially high heels. I didn't have that "first scuff" fear and I really was able to enjoy them while I was wearing them and stressed a little less about any wear & tear.

So, there are a ton of reasons to shop secondhand. Costume or themed parties are the obvious one but you can also find standout style AND everyday classic fashion brands at a great price and no different than buying new.

I’m definitely motivated to keep my resolutions after reviewing my history with pre-owned clothing. I think my favorite outfits, have been pre-owned because they are unique and truly MY style not just whatever is on trend or on sale.