As the world becomes increasingly aware of the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion, many young consumers are seeking out more sustainable and ethical alternatives. One trend in particular that has gained popularity among Gen Z is thrift shopping. No longer just a way to score cheap, second-hand clothes, thrift shopping has become a fashionable and trendy way to make a statement about personal values and style. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Gen Z's growing interest in thrift shopping, and we will show you some successful strategies to freshen up your wardrobe.
Tips and Tricks to Fashion on a Budget
If you’ve been living under a rock the past few years and are just now becoming aware of the thrift shop trend, but still want to participate, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with the most useful tips and strategies for finding unique pieces of clothing in thrift stores.
- Shop frequently. Thrift stores often receive new donations on a regular basis, so regular shoppers have a better chance of finding unique items. For any type of thrift shopping, you want to try, get to the store as they open or as close to their opening to try and have first pick of the new items that have been put out.
- Look in unconventional places. Some thrift store shoppers will check out racks or shelves that are not as heavily trafficked, as they may be more likely to find hidden gems. People also tend to hide items in unusual places or shelves while they decide about the items.
- Consider shopping at specialty thrift stores. Many stores, such as Opineuw in Breda, specialize in certain types of clothing, such as vintage or designer pieces. These stores may be more likely to have unique items that are not as easily found at regular ones.
- And most importantly, keep an open mind! Thrift shopping can be unpredictable, so it can be helpful to go in motivated and willing to try on a variety of different items. Even if something doesn't seem like a perfect fit at first, it may surprise you once you try it on.
Additionally, we’ve reached out to the BUas community to find people, who are passionate about thrifting and are open to share their secret tricks, special advice and greatest finds with us. Find them below!
Meet our BUas Thrifters
Despite their diverse academic pursuits, these three girls all bond over their love for thrifting, scouring through second-hand stores for distinctive and affordable clothing pieces.
Bogi Vince, a Hotel Management Student:
“I do thrift shop a lot actually. I love thrifting!”
Bogi’s thrifting advice:
“I think the best is to go in between collection change. So not at the very beginning- just after new collection because then the shops are crowded and that period is the most expensive, but also not on the last days because only the very bad quality clothes are kept there still for the cheapest days, so the golden middle is in between.
The clothes are always changeable, so if there are small parts that I don't like I usually just change it for my own taste, like cutting it shorter or looser. Also applies for men’s clothing, I have some of my favourite pieces from the men section, which is usually cheaper as well.”
Everything thrifted
Elizabet Angelova, a Tourism Management Student:
“I believe thrifted clothes have a story and it’s not only the item you’re selling but part of your identity and attitude that you decide to give to people. So, when you buy a thrifted item, you buy a story, you buy an experience.”
Elizabet’s thrifting advice:
“My advice is to visit more and more local thrift sites and stores because as it has become a trend nowadays, there are already apps developed that are growing very fast and that is kind of redirecting the audience to certain channels of distribution. It does make it easier, however, sometimes the most interesting things are hidden in a local thrift shop nobody considers as an option usually. In local stores you may find not only fashion but items that represent local history sometimes and that could be a treasure. And if those spots are forgotten and cannot benefit from customers they may close and all the treasures they offer could go away or be lost forever.”
Thrifted pullover, coat and woven vest
Paula Smith, a Leisure & Events Student:
“Thrifting has allowed me to be more daring in my style choices and explore different styles and adjust it to suit me! Thrifting is a great tool to open up to varying styles.”
Thrifted leather jacket
Top 5 Netherlands' Thrift Stores that are Worth the Trip
If you're considering thrift shopping or were inspired by our article to try it out, here are some popular thrift shops in the Netherlands that you might want to check out.
- Emmaus Kringloopwinkel in Breda: This thrift store, which is part of a larger chain, offers a variety of second-hand clothing, household goods, and other items. It has an online shopping option as well!
- Cheap Fashion in Rotterdam: Its name gives you a hint about what you can expect. Visit the link to Cheap Fashion’s Instagram account to find out more!
- ReShare in The Hague: This shop specializes in vintage clothing. Many types of customers can enjoy a pleasant shopping experience at the ReShare Shops, whether they have a limited budget, are looking for something special, or prefer to buy used items to support sustainability.
- The Amsterdam Flea Market: Located in Amsterdam Noord, this large outdoor market features a mix of antiques, vintage clothing, and other second-hand items. Due of the market's size, there is a perfect balance between supply and demand, and you will have a chance of finding what you are looking for. Next dates you can visit it: 11 and 12 March, 2023.
- Finally, for those, who enjoy shopping online better, our thrifter Elizabet recommends Vinted!
If you love thrifting as much as Paula, Bogi and Elizabet, resist the urge to gate-keep and share your favourite thrift stores with us. Upload a photo of you in your best vintage or thrift store finds and tag @buashub on Instagram!
Our team wishes you good luck with your thrift adventures!
