Gen Z Loves Thrifting. Why? They Love the "Vintage" Look — The Riverdale Review (2024)

It’s a new year, but Gen Z fashion is all about “a blast from the past.” Current fashion trends embraced by younger shoppers point to clothing that our parents, aunts, and uncles probably still have hanging in their closets. Gen Z is drawn to slouchy suits, flared jeans, graphic tees, long flowy party dresses, tracksuits, mini skirts and trucker hats. They are flocking to thrift and vintage stores in search of authentic retro looks. As much as 62% of Gen Z and Millennials say they look for an item secondhand before they buy a new version of it, according to the 2022 annual industry report from secondhand marketplace ThredUP. The top three reasons Gen Z are buying used clothing is to save money, to be more sustainable, and to have more fun shopping, the report said. The market for secondhand goods in the United States is expected to more than double to 82 billion dollars by 2026, from 35 billion dollars in 2021, according to the report.

Shurland Singh, a manager at a Goodwill store in New York City’s east side, is seeing the thrifting frenzy first hand. Mr. Singh states, “We have a good percentage of the younger generation coming in now. On a daily basis at least 25% of consumers are Gen Z.” Singh listed the most popular looks in secondhand marketplaces. He notes, “Right now the furry look is in and the baggy look is a little bit in.” Singh later explained that the mission of Goodwill is to “provide people with disabilities independence through the power of work. And by doing that, and collecting [clothing] donations, we’re actually keeping tons of clothes out of the landfills.”

There is another reason contributing to the young shoppers' infatuation with old clothing: people want to express their individuality through their outfits, but also in a sustainable way. Now, there is a new desire to transition to clothing pieces that are not harmful to the environment. Ninth grader Jillian Flynn expresses, “I like thrifting because I can find trendy clothes and I don’t have to contribute to fast fashion by doing so.” Furthermore, the trend of buying pre worn clothes allows for people to stop supporting fast fashion companies, who facilitate forced manual labor. Commenting on the unethical practices of creating fast fashion pieces, Flynn states, “The factories that make fast fashion clothing have bad working conditions that I don’t want to support.” Ultimately, by purchasing thrifted clothing, teenagers are becoming more sustainable with their outfit choices, in hopes of helping our environment. Thrifts and vintage stores with community goals like Goodwill, Buffalo Exchange, and L train vintage are likely to stay high on Gen Zers’ radar. The Riverdale Review hopes that you shop sustainably in the future!

Gen Z Loves Thrifting. Why? They Love the "Vintage" Look —   The Riverdale Review (2024)

FAQs

Why is thrifting so popular with Gen Z? ›

The ThredUp report found sustainability was among the top five motivators for Gen Z when it comes to how they spend on apparel. As secondhand shoppers feel like they're saving something from ending up in a landfill, buying used clothing is no longer viewed as inferior to buying new.

Why does Gen Z love vintage? ›

Well, for Gen Z it's about the whole vibe. Many feel that the era represents a carefree time that was about having fun. Considering the stressful reality we've been experiencing over the last few years, it's no wonder Gen Z are feeling nostalgic for a simpler time.

What are the top three reasons that Gen Z buys secondhand items? ›

Demand for secondhand clothing is highest among Gen Z and Millennial consumers.
  • Affordability.
  • Sustainability.
  • Uniqueness.

Why are people obsessed with thrifting? ›

Many of us shop because we love a bargain. There's less sticker shock and it's easier on our budget. It's where we can find vintage items. Instead of something manufactured to look vintage.

Why do millennials like vintage? ›

There is another reason contributing to the young shoppers' infatuation with old clothing: people want to express their individuality through their outfits, but also in a sustainable way. Now, there is a new desire to transition to clothing pieces that are not harmful to the environment.

What do Gen Z spend most on? ›

Where does Gen Z spend their money?
  • A 2022 survey found that Gen Z spends an average of $1,885 on their pets every year. ...
  • Another 2022 survey determined that Gen Z spends around $157.07 on entertainment each month. ...
  • Social media drives 49% of Gen Z consumers to buy more clothing.
May 29, 2024

Why is Gen Z so obsessed with nostalgia? ›

Youth nostalgia fosters a sense of belonging. Ho says that nostalgia reinforces relationships through shared experiences, which builds trust. In a time of social and political turmoil, it makes sense that younger generations (specifically Gen Z) would turn to nostalgia.

What do Gen Z love the most? ›

Gen Zers are more likely to cite streaming video, streaming music, and playing video games as daily activities compared with the general adult population, per a May 2023 Morning Consult survey. They're also less interested in traditional TV and listening to the radio.

What is Gen Z most passionate about? ›

Top causes include Black Lives Matter/Race Relations (63% of 13-17-year-olds, and 55% of 18-25-year-olds), Environment and Climate Change (44% of 13-17-year-olds, and 45% of 18-25-year-olds), Animal Rights (45% of 13-17-year-olds, and 42% of 18-25-year-olds), Bullying/Cyberbullying (49% of 13-17-year-olds, and 39% of ...

What type of people like thrifting? ›

The thrifting trend is being led by Gen Z, although people of all ages participate. Not only has thrifting become the “cool thing” to do, it has become a way to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, and to reject the throwaway mentality of fast fashion and the questionable labor practices associated with it.

Why is thrifting popular again? ›

It's fun, cheap and green as you are recycling. Many thrift shops benefit a charity or are small local businesses. They used to be where less affluent people had to shop, but a lot of people who shop at them now can afford to buy new, but they like vintage finds and supporting local or charity businesses.

What products do Gen Z buy the most? ›

According to the 2023 Consumer Culture Report by 5WPR, Gen Z will “splurge” in three areas: electronics, health and wellness, and clothing and fashion.

Why does Gen Z like to thrift? ›

For Gen Z, thrifting is more than just an affordable practice; it's a form of self-expression. With a wide range of one-of-a-kind items in thrift stores, they're able to find unique pieces that reflect their personal style. Some Gen Zers view thrifting and reselling as a challenge to find the diamond in the rough.

Do rich people buy thrift? ›

Wealthier people have begun to frequent thrift stores, shopping for the same items as low-income people who were the original customers of the secondhand shops. In addition to wearing the clothes themselves, many thrifters in recent years have also started reselling the clothing on websites like Depop at a higher rate.

Who started the thrifting trend? ›

The first known charitable resale store, the thrifting trend pioneer, opened its doors in 1899 in Amsterdam. It aimed to alleviate poverty by selling donated clothing and household items at affordable prices. Fast-forward a few decades, and thrift stores began popping up in various corners of the world.

Why is thrifting trendy now? ›

Thrifting Becomes Cool

People began to seek out unique, one-of-a-kind pieces to stand out from the crowd. Enter the era of vintage and second-hand clothing. Thrift stores became the go-to destination for fashion-forward individuals looking to express their style in a more affordable and sustainable way.

What is the shopping trend for Gen Z? ›

Gen Z shopping trends in the US
  • They're buying a whole new wardrobe (literally)
  • They're embracing pet ownership.
  • They're making their loyalty count.
  • They're willing to wait 'til the price is right.
  • They're not (that) afraid of AI.
  • They're buying into the big game.
  • They're seeking sources of global news.
Feb 22, 2024

Why is Gen Z obsessed with fashion? ›

It's not just about fashion, it's about narrating the Gen Z experience through attire, using fashion as a potent medium for self-expression. Thus, with every graphic tee, every chunky sneaker, and every oversized sweatshirt, Gen Z communicates their narrative, etching their individuality on the canvas of streetwear.

How many Gen Z buy second hand clothes? ›

The report found that more than half of all shoppers had bought something secondhand in the past year – although that rose to 65% of generation Z and millennials – those aged between 12 and 43. Almost two in five – 38% of consumers – said they shop secondhand to afford higher end brands.

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