Some thrift for the thrill of the hunt, to find something well made, or because buying used can be good for the environment.
Although it’s trendy, thrifting appears to have staying power: The secondhand global market is expected to double in the next three years and reach $350 billion by 2027, according to an April 2023 report from online resale site ThredUp.
Few people know thrifting better than Emily Stochl, the host of the Pre-Loved podcast and the advocacy manager at Remake, a nonprofit organization that advocates for climate justice and better working conditions in the fashion industry.
Stochl caught up with WNYC’s Allison Stewart on a recent episode of “All of It” to discuss dupes, capes and more. Listeners called in to share their favorite spots for vintage, used and pre-loved clothing around New York City. Below is an edited version of their conversation.
Alison Stewart: How can you tell if a garment is well made?
Emily Stochl: Always check the seams. Sturdy seams are a good indicator that it’s well made. The other thing is fabrication. I love natural fibers if I can find them – things like cotton or wool that are purely those natural fibers. They’re meant to last longer than some of the textiles that are made today.
You had a podcast episode about finding gems at a “meh” thrift store. You mentioned that moment you walk in and you’re like, “Oh, there’s nothing here.” And your guest was like, “wait a minute.”
Wait a minute. It just takes a little bit of imagination – because if you’re used to a retail shopping experience, you are used to things being beautifully merchandised on the mannequins, and the imagination is all done for you.
In a thrift store, you have to be the one to picture, how would this look outside of the context of this thrift store? How would it look styled in my wardrobe?
I think that little creative exercise is good for us. It makes us better stylists. When you put that hat on, I think you will be surprised by the things…
Read the full article here
Leave a Reply