Why Secondhand Is Worth a Second Look

The second full week of February is National Secondhand Wardrobe Week, a perfect time to rethink how we shop. We sat down with Kayla S., Loan Operations Specialist, to explore the benefits of a secondhand wardrobe and her tips for shopping, saving, styling, and building a capsule wardrobe from thrifted fashion.

“As the eldest daughter, I never had a sibling to pass clothes down to me. Thrifting feels like my way of getting that experience. I’ve seen secondhand and vintage embraced as style, not just thrifting, making secondhand fashion mainstream, cool, and expressive,” she says.

Shopping secondhand helps people find high-quality pieces for a fraction of the original price. Kayla believes it helps her afford better brands, experiment with trends without overspending, and build a more versatile wardrobe. “It really helps my budget go further while still feeling stylish,” she adds.

Kayla recommends focusing on timeless basics to build your fashion capsule, items including jackets, denim, sweaters, and neutral tops that mix with everything. “I go into a secondhand store with a plan, but stay open-minded,” she explains. Check multiple sections and try on different sizes – all brands' sizing guidelines tend to vary.

Be patient while you’re shopping. Take your time, check fabric quality, seams, and fit rather than being overly focused on the label. She recommends shopping at thrift stores during the week, especially early in the day, because the stores are quieter and the inventory usually gets restocked overnight. “It’s definitely a skill you get better at with practice,” she shares.

As you build your thrifted fashion capsule, you can focus on mixing secondhand items with the clothing in your closet. “I like using secondhand pieces as statement items—like a bold jacket, vintage denim, or unique accessories—and pairing them with basics I already have,” she says. Mixing old and new allows you to express your individuality, making outfits feel more personal and less “fast fashion.”

One of Kayla’s best resale treasures is a pair of floral-stamped denim jeans that fit perfectly off the rack, which she says rarely happens. She paid one dollar for that hidden gem! “It really sold me on how rewarding thrifting can be when you take the time to look!” Exclaimed Kayla.

If you are on the fence about shopping secondhand, Kayla says the common misconception is that everything is outdated, worn out, or dirty. This is hardly the case. She often finds barely worn pieces or even brand new items with tags still attached! Modern, trendy, and high-demand pieces are hanging on the racks just waiting for a new home.

Opting for stylish, gently used pieces is a smart choice for both your wardrobe and the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that 62 million pounds of clothing are sent to landfills every single day! “Buying and donating secondhand keeps clothing in circulation longer instead of ending up in landfills. It reduces the demand for new production, saves resources, and supports a more sustainable fashion cycle,” says Kayla.

Ready to give secondhand a try? Start small and be patient. Visit a local thrift shop to look for quality styles that fit your budget. Being thoughtful with your clothing purchases can make a meaningful impact on your budget, your wardrobe, and the planet.