I’ve got two daughters and what I’ve quickly learned in the years since becoming a mum, is that there are always more important things to spend money on (than yourself!). The love of clothes I had pre-kids hadn’t gone, but clothes shopping for myself just felt like a luxury I couldn’t afford or justify. That is until I discovered pre-loved clothes a year ago. My wardrobe is now fuller than it’s been for years, and I’m happier knowing I’ve been able to indulge my passion, guilt-free.
So why pre-loved clothes?
First of all, you can save a small fortune buying second-hand clothes. Very often you are purchasing an item that is either brand new or only worn once at less than half the price. Most of the time clothes are donated because that person no longer likes that particular garment, or the sizing isn’t quite right for them anymore. You can often find labels such as Mint Velvet and All Saints if you are into those sorts of brands that are showcasing the latest trends at exceptionally low prices.
Sustainable fashion
You’ve probably heard or used the term sustainable fashion, but what does it mean? Sustainable fashion refers to clothing that is manufactured, distributed, designed, and used in ways that are environmentally friendly and pre-loved clothing is just that! Build yourself a sustainable wardrobe filled with pre-loved clothing or clothing made by slow fashion brands. You’ll be helping the environment as well as getting an incredible new wardrobe, win win!
Easier to shop
Believe it or not, it is actually easier to shop for pre-loved clothes. If you are shopping in a local charity shop or vintage warehouse, the garments are mainly arranged by their size. This makes it far easier and quicker to find items. Shopping online is just as easy. There are so many pre-loved websites, Facebook pages and Apps. Again online you are able to filter your search to find the style, garment and size that you are looking for. My go to App for buying pre-loved clothes is Vinted. Vinted is so easy to navigate. I simply use the filters to select the brands I like, the size and colours. Once you have made your preferences, Vinted will only bring up items that fit within your criteria which makes it so much easier, and so much more enjoyable. I buy the majority of my clothes from there. Practically everything in my wardrobe is pre-loved.
Support local business owners
By making the choice to shop pre-loved you will be supporting local businesses in your area that depend on obtaining these clothes and then redistributing them to the market. Instead of spending hundreds of pounds helping millionaire designers and corporations to make more money, it is far better to support these businesses that are actually recycling perfectly good items that could have just been thrown away. More than ever our local businesses need to be shown support if the country’s economy is to grow and that only can be done if we are there behind them backing them all the way.
It’s more fun
Pre-loved clothes are far more unique. Pre-loved clothes will bring you to the top of your fashion game because you will have access to so many different styles. I have a love for the 60’s and 70’s style, particularly the pinafore dresses with a thin turtleneck. I remember googling 60’s and 70’s style dresses and the items that came up were not only scarce but so ridiculously expensive, there was absolutely no way I could afford them. I typed the same key words into Vinted and not only was there a huge selection but the prices were so low, I couldn’t believe my luck. This meant I could buy quite a few different items and enjoy wearing the style I love.
The other bonus to buying pre-loved clothes is that no two items are the same. Chances are you are likely to be the only person to own that particular item, due to the fact that they are no longer being made. I get so many compliments on my clothes, friends saying that they’ve never seen that particular style or print before and that they love the fact that my garments are a one off.
My advice is to explore pre-loved clothes in your area, online as well as local shops. You’ll be really surprised at how many there are out there. It will bring you a new sense of joy and will save you a load of money!
