As the weather changes to the cold months, everyone is on the hunt for cozy sweaters, fuzzy socks and warm pants to keep them nice and toasty. Some people may go online and order all of these essentials so they can have the most stylish cold-weather look; others may search for more unique pieces that they can transform into something that is suited to their style and personality. One amazing way to do this is to go thrifting. 

Recently, due to the influences of social media, thrifting has become a very popular trend among Generation Z.  For many people, thrifting means taking a step to save our planet by recycling clothing that is not worn anymore and selling it to stores that will give it a new home. When people grow out of their old clothes or want to change styles, they may have the instant thought of just throwing them away and not dealing with them. Instead of throwing them in the trash, we should try and donate all of our old clothing so it does not end up in landfills and pollute our environment even more. 

To save our environment, one step we can all take is to stop ordering from online retail places so much. While ordering items online may seem like the smart and easy way to go, fast fashion is extremely harmful to our environment. All the waste that is produced from the moment you click order to its arrival on your porch steps is no friend to the environment. Clothing bought from fast fashion websites is made out of textiles that have been found to have dangerous chemicals on them. The people who make the items have to work in the factories where the clothing is being made, exposing them to harsh working conditions and exposure to chemicals. The clothing also tends to feel cheap which means it won’t last very long. Thrifting is a great alternative to buying new, cheap and harmful clothes.

The environmental benefits behind shopping second-hand are great for the health of our planet and us. It reduces waste, conserves resources and minimizes pollution. In the long run, the clothing will have a longer life, meaning you can re-wear your new favorite garment.

Shopping at thrift stores, such as the popular Goodwill, is not the only way to find amazing pieces. There are plenty of other places to go that have a variety of different items, for example, consignment stores and vintage stores. These places, as well as the good old thrift store, can have many items one may love and give a new life. 

Around Raleigh, there are many unique and fun places to visit and shop for second-hand items. One thrift store that is amazing to support is the Cause For Paws Thrift Shop. This non-profit organization sells the typical thrift store items, but gives back to animals in need, helping them get adopted. Along with clothing in the store, they have cats that are up for adoption. Consignment stores are places where people can sell their old clothing and the store buys it to resell. Two incredible, and affordable, places are Plato’s Closet and Uptown Cheapskate. They both sell cool and trendy clothing that primarily caters to younger crowds. Their clothing is pricier than most thrift stores, but the price is worth it for clothing that is in style and in good condition. 

Finally, vintage stores are great places to find clothing and accessories with that vintage charm. TrunkShow is a funky store that sells vintage clothing, accessories and handmade items. This charming place has cool collections and stunning handmade items that will support small businesses. 

Clothing is a vessel for self-expression and is a reflection of you and your mind. It is how many people reflect their personalities and who they are on the outside. Thrifting allows people to do just that, all while taking a step to save our environment.