Author: Steve Clark

Hi! I am Steve Clark, a marketing manager at a thrift store. I Have been working in the thrift store industry for the last five years.

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thrift shop Thrift Stores thrifting

5 simple ways to live more sustainably

5 simple ways to live more sustainably

We all know how important it is to reduce, reuse, and recycle to limit our impact on the environment. But it’s easy to forget how everyday actions can make a difference for the planet.

So, what are some simple things to do to make your everyday routine more eco-friendly? We have five ways to live more sustainably today.

Use less water
One of the easiest ways to make a positive, eco-friendly difference around your home is by conserving clean water. Even if you don’t live in an area affected by drought, cutting back on the amount of water you use reduces waste and can lower your monthly utility bill.

Start simple: turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, switch to a water efficient shower head, and water outdoor plants in the morning when you’ll need less water.

Go paperless
Technology today has made it possible to reduce the amount of paper we needlessly waste. Whenever possible, try to go digital instead of printing.

Ask for paperless billing from your bank, use e-tickets for movies and events, and scan documents into your computer instead of printing multiple copies. You’ll reduce excess clutter and save a few trees in the process!

Prevent plastic waste
Millions of pounds of single-use plastic waste are generated each year, but only a small percentage ever gets recycled. Plastic pollution frequently ends up in our planet’s oceans, which in turn harms animals and damages coastlines.

Fortunately, there are easy ways to reduce your plastic use. For example, bring a reusable bag to the grocery store and use reusable straws and water bottles instead of plastic.

Reduce air pollution
Air pollution is harmful to our lungs and the environment. If you live in a city with public transit, try to use it frequently. Or, combine trips and carpool with family or friends to reduce emissions and save money on gas. When possible, walk or bike to nearby destinations to avoid making unnecessary car trips.

Give a new life to used items
Do you have clothes and household goods that you no longer want, use, or need? Don’t throw them away – donate them! When you throw away reusable items such as clothing, they end up sitting in landfills where they take a long time to break down.

Not only is this bad for the environment, but there are many people who can use these items, even if you don’t want them anymore. The next time you clean out your closet or garage, ditch the dumpster and donate your gently used items to your local thrift shops in Destin, FL where they’ll be given a new life and a new purpose.

It’s never too early or too late to begin living more sustainably, and donating to thrift shop is a great place to start. 

By donating to thrift shops, not only are you committing to environmental sustainability, but you’re also making a greater difference in your community! Your gently-used items will be sold at affordable prices to neighbors who can use them.

Then, the proceeds from the sale of your goods help fund Goodwill’s job training and employment services for individuals with disabilities and local veterans.

It all adds up to a positive impact for you, the planet, and your community! Find a retail store or attended donation center near you to make a donation today.

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thrift shop

The Common Misconceptions About Thrift Stores

The Common Misconceptions About Thrift Stores
The Common Misconceptions About Thrift Stores

We’ve talked a lot about the positive attributes when it comes to thrift stores: all the different environmental benefits, the money you can save, and the ways you can embrace your unique personality.

Though you know this, and many people understand this intellectually, there’s still something that keeps certain shoppers from heading into the store. What is it?

Oftentimes, it’s the myths and misconceptions that keep people from stepping in. They hear people say how thrift stores are “dirty” or that it’s too hard to find something. These are the sort of tales that keep people shopping at department stores.

Below we’re going to delve into some of the common misconceptions about thrift stores and debunk them. There are so many wonderful benefits of shopping secondhand, and that’s what we’ll showcase here!

“Thrift stores are dirty”

Probably the most common myth about thrift stores has to do with their cleanliness. People love to talk about how thrift stores are dirty, even if they’ve never been in one before. It’s the thought that since the clothes are used, then they must be dirty. But that’s not the case!

Sure, every now and then there might be an outlier with a stain, and modern thrift stores run by well-known charities may not be the glitziest of places, but that is not to say that they’re not clean. In fact, many stores are putting even more effort into maintaining a clean and organized space to counteract that stereotype.

“It’s too hard to find something good”

You know this isn’t really true! Think about your coworker who always has the best pieces and who always looks incredible. When you ask them where they found a particularly cool item, chances are they’ll say, “The thrift store.”

More often than not, those pieces that we’re most interested in are vintage, one-of-a-kind treasures found in thrift stores. Though thrift stores can be packed with items, that just goes to show how many good pieces you can find when you know how to look.

If you’re not sure where to look, then just take a breath and wander around! Most stores will have some sort of signage to point you in the right direction. But if they don’t, then it’s still not hard to find what you’re looking for. You just have to take the time.

Even if sizes are messed up (which they may be because people don’t often put things back in the right space, no matter what type of store you’re in), you can still find something good on the racks!

“I can’t find anything in style”

Sure, you may find some funky pieces from the ’80s, but those can turn into the staples that help make your style more unique. The great thing about thrift stores is that they have such a wide variety of clothing that any person, no matter what their style, can find something they’d like.

That neon polyester set may not look good to you, but there’s someone out there looking for something just like that.

It’s time to break out of the mindset that thrift stores only have outdated styles. The vast majority of a thrift store’s inventory consists of current styles in good to new condition.

They don’t want to put things on the racks if they don’t think people will like it. Any thrifter can tell you about how many times they’ve bought an item with the tags still on. Hint…it happens way more often than you’d think!

“I’m only into high-end clothing, and I won’t find that in a thrift store”

Where do you think those designer clothes go when their previous owner has had their fill? Sure, some may give them to a friend, some may even put them in the trash (but we really hope they don’t), but a lot of the time they’re donated and end up at thrift and consignment shops.

You can find so many beautifully made designer-label items at thrift stores, but you just have to look. At thrift stores, you can find designer bags at a fraction of the retail price. Those well-made clothes are the things that last—the things that show up on a thrift store rack.

“Thrift stores are unorganized”

One of the most common misconceptions about thrift stores has to do with their organization. Some folks think shopping at a thrift store and finding goodies will take hours of work because the stores are unorganized.

Again, now and then you may find a thrift store in Destin, FL that looks like a tornado just swept through it. But the majority of them are organized and grouped by color and garment.

Since thrift shopping has become more of a “trend,” many stores are making it as easy as possible for shoppers to find their treasures and leave.

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Secondhand Clothes thrift shop

8 Things You Should Be Buying at Thrift Stores

Beginner's Guide to Thrifting: 8 Tips for Thrifting Your Spring/Summer Wardrobe This Year - The Collegiate Live
8 Things You Should Be Buying at Thrift Stores

Here are some things you, too, should always buy at thrift shop in Destin, FL.

1. Jeans

Hands-down, jeans are the best bargain in any thrift store. Where I live, high-quality used jeans sell for $7.99-$12.99 a pair. And though that may seem high for “pre-loved” denim, consider this: According to Statista, a consumer market research company, the average retail price of women’s jeans was $165 in 2018.

Think all thrift store jeans are junk? Think again. There are loads of high-quality clothes in thrift stores if you know what to look for.

2. Tools

Tools are go-items at thrift stores and something I always buy at estate sales. I’m not talking about circular saws and welding torches here, just basic tools everyone should have.

Since much of what gets donated is older, it’s easy to find used tools that are well-made and proven by years of dedicated service.

Look for genuine made-in-America stuff, like your parents or grandparents had. And don’t let a little surface rust discourage you. With just the slightest TLC, most old tools can go for another generation or two.

3. Totes, trays and baskets

Sure, Amazon sells countless products to organize your home. But, again: Why pay retail?

Canvas totes are always on my shopping list. They’re handy for stowing items in the trunk of my car, packing for an overnight trip, and shopping at garage sales and flea markets.

Trays and baskets are my other go-to storage items. Trays are perfect for displaying cologne, organizing TV remotes or storing craft supplies. Use baskets to store pet supplies, winter gear and bath towels.

4. Holiday decorations

Psst: When you pay less for holiday decorations, you’ll have more money to spend on gifts.

Over the years, I’ve built a handsome collection of handmade Christmas tree ornaments — all purchased at thrift shops for about 50 cents apiece.

And, like clockwork every year, I find a box of brand-new holiday greeting cards for a dollar or two. (Sorry, retailers, but spending $6 to $12 a box just doesn’t work for me.)

But why stop there? Thrift stores sell artificial trees, tree skirts, wreaths and wrapping paper. Best of all, when you buy from charity-related shops, you’re directing your dollars toward worthy causes. And that’s a good idea every season of the year.

5. Art and craft supplies

Thrift stores offer limitless options for artists and crafters.

Besides old canvases that can be painted over, I look for vintage photographs, wallpaper samples, fabric, yarn, pottery and silverware.

With a little inspiration, nearly everything in a thrift shop can be reimagined and repurposed. And since the raw materials are so inexpensive, you can let your creative spirit run wild.

6. Dishware

I’ll say it loud and proud: “I buy all my dishes at thrift stores.” Sure, nothing matches in the strictest sense, but that’s part of the fun.

Creative designers make an art form of setting tables with highly curated “mismatched” sets of dinnerware. You can copy this great look for pennies at a thrift store. Here’s how:

  • I choose a main color family (classic whites and creams) and an accent color (navy blue).
  • Next, I let my creativity take over, buying interesting pieces that fit within my chosen palette.
  • Every plate, bowl, cup and saucer is different, yet it all works together.

When a cup breaks, I pick up a used, unique replacement. Stress level? Zero. Cost? Practically zero.

7. Perfume

Though I’m not a big fan of perfume, many of my friends and family are. It’s a treat to find a bottle of Burberry or Dior mixed in with thrift stores’ standard fare of Avon and Charlie.

And it happens more often than you might think. Most major department stores donate their perfume testers. Look for the telltale missing cap. (Caps are removed so used bottles can’t be returned as new.)

The best part? Many thrift shops aren’t familiar with high-end fragrance brands. Some bottles sell for $3 or $4 apiece.

8. One-of-a-kind items

I’m always on the lookout for the weird and wonderful.

Kids’ pinch pots with wild glazes, threadbare silk rugs, a stack of black and white snapshots — these one-of-a-kind items make our homes unique. And they can all be found in thrift stores.

A few years ago, I stumbled upon a hand-painted image of a sleeping dog. It’s primitive, but done with such care that I couldn’t pass it up. Today, that $4 find is one of my most treasured possessions.

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Thrift Stores thrifting

4 thrifty fall finds from thrift stores

4 Thrifty Fall Finds From Goodwill - Goodwill Cincinnati
4 thrifty fall finds from thrift stores

Autumn is officially here, and there’s no better way to kick off the season than by updating your wardrobe and decorating your home for fall. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, now is the perfect time to try out some new fall trends.

Here are some of my favorite thrifty fall finds you can look for on your next shopping trip to the thrift store in Destin, FL:

Faux leather jackets

No fall wardrobe is complete without a stylish faux leather jacket. Along with the classic black “biker” jacket, some top trends for fall include beige, red, and white faux leather jackets.

You can dress up your jacket by wearing it over a fall dress with tights and boots, or dress it down with a simple tee shirt and jeans. The outfit possibilities are endless, plus you’ll stay warm all day while looking effortlessly cool.

Because leather jackets are so timeless, you can often find them at your local store for far less than department store prices.

All things plaid

In 2018, we’ve seen a return of the most iconic looks from the 1990’s, including plaid. From matching plaid patterned suit sets to plaid jackets, blouses, scarves, and handbags, there’s no shortage of ways to wear this fall trend. You can even incorporate the stylish print in your home décor with plaid tablecloths, bedding, curtains, and rugs.

Winter-ready boots

With wintery weather on its way, you’ll need a great pair of boots (or two!) to ensure you’re prepared for rain and snow. Some of the top footwear trends of this fall are animal print booties, low cut cowboy boots, and 80’s inspired kitten heels.

Elegant jewel tones

Rich, luxurious colors inspired by jewels are another emerging fall trend that you can incorporate into your wardrobe or home! Look for clothing and accessories in emerald, navy, sapphire, ruby, fuschia, and topaz to add a pop of color to any outfit.

Jewel tones are also perfect for decorating your living space and bringing some warmth into your home. For a vibrant Thanksgiving centerpiece idea, look for clear or colored glass vases that you can fill with jewel-toned flowers such as roses, chrysanthemums, or black-eyed Susans.

When you shop at thrift stores, you’ll get so much more than a great deal. You’ll also get the satisfaction of your purchase makes a difference for people facing barriers to employment.

At stores, the proceeds from the sale of donated goods help to fund job placement services and programs for individuals with disabilities and our nation’s veterans.

You can feel great knowing that the dollars you spent at thrift stores are reinvested back into your community to change lives and strengthen the local economy!

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thrift shop Thrift Stores

WHY YOU SHOULD THRIFT YOUR FURNITURE

12 Best Places to Donate Used Furniture to Charity

Did you buy a new house recently? Or are you moving out soon? Whatever your case might be, you might need some furniture to furnish your new space. If you have ever gone furniture shopping, you know just how expensive it can be to buy new furniture. 

The good news is that there is always the option of buying furniture at used furniture stores. These stores carry a wide variety of used furniture for your convenience.

THREE REASONS TO BUY YOUR FURNITURE AT THRIFT STORES

Saves you money

Buying a house or leasing an apartment can burn a hole in your wallet. For example, the average cost of a house in 2021 is $295,300, which does not include closing costs — leaving your budget with little to no room for buying new furniture for your space. 

If you are looking to save money on your furniture, head to a thrift store. These stores carry second hand furniture that is sturdy and affordable. Of course, you need to keep in mind that these pieces of furniture will not always be in the best condition. 

Saves the planet 

One growing environmental problem is the amount of furniture that is tossed out each year. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that nine million tons of furniture are being tossed into landfills every year. These pieces of furniture then spend years just sitting there because they cannot decompose fast enough. 

The rise of fast furniture is to blame for the growing number of furniture tossed out. Fast furniture is created to fit the trends of the season. Once that trend is over, those pieces of furniture are replaced by “trendier” ones and end up in landfills. 

You can help save the environment by shopping at used furniture stores over retail stores. By thrifting furniture instead of buying new, you reduce the demand for new furniture and the number of furniture that end up in landfills. 

Sparks your creativity 

Second hand furniture sold at thrift stores is sought by many because it is made of higher quality material and sold at discounted prices. However, the catch is that these pieces of furniture might have scratches, stains, peeling paint or missing pieces. 

These imperfections do not discourage buyers but spark their creativity. Thrifted furniture can be restored or flipped into new pieces of furniture. People can give old furniture new life with a little paint, wood stain, wood filler and new hardware. 

WHAT KIND OF FURNITURE CAN YOU FIND AT THRIFT STORES? 

Before you start your search for furniture at your local thrift shops in Destin, FL, you need to have an idea of what kinds of furniture are sold there. Not all furniture is available at thrift stores.

It depends on the furniture thrift stores accept from donations. Here is a list of furniture that you can commonly find at thrift stores. 

  • Tables
  • Chairs 
  • China cabinets
  • Dressers
  • Bed frames 
  • Side tables 
  • Benches
  • Coffee tables 
  • Sofas 
  • Recliners
  • Upholstered chairs
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thrift shop Thrift Stores

Tips on How and What to Give to Thrift Shops

Tips on How and What to Give to Thrift Shops

Shopping at thrift stores in Destin, FL is an effective way to save some cash, get quality goods, and keep the world a greener place. Secondhand items cost buyers less money and are often much higher quality than the (basically) disposables that come from discount stores.

And, ultimately, by continuing to use perfectly good items, we are keeping them out of landfills and not pulling more resources from the earth to produce new items.

The environmental impact of throwing things out is catching up with us. The fashion industry, with its high product turnover, produces some 1.2 billion tons of greenhouse emissions a year, millions of tons worth of garbage in landfills, and millions of tons of plastic microfibers in the ocean.

Start adding in throwaway cutlery, cheaply made furniture, and last year’s cell phones, and the numbers are even more disturbing.

Equally as beneficial as shopping at thrift stores is donating to them. Rather than tossing goods out or storing something in the bottom of the closet to never be used again, it’s good practice to give thrift shops these items and put them back in circulation.

It’ll provide someone else with all the benefits listed above, as well as earn some funds for the thrift store’s charity. And, don’t forget that it’ll clear out some of the clutter in your house as well.

What Not to Give to Thrift Stores

It’s important to remember that thrift stores are not garbage heaps, nor are they repair shops. Items that are obviously broken or unusable are not really going to do them much good, and, in fact, donating this type of stuff will cause more work for what are likely volunteers or low-paid staff. In other words, it’s best to avoid being a burden.

Otherwise, there are some items that just don’t seem to sell or are already overstocked in thrift stores. For example, clear glass stemware and fine china are regularly donated but rarely leave the shelves.

Baskets come in bulk but sell primarily near holidays. Trendy books, such as Fifty Shades of Grey, often come in such abundance that there will be years of backlog.

What to Give to Thrift Stores

On the other hand, there are some items that thrift stores love to get, and that will almost be gone by the time the donor is. High-quality cookware like pots, pans, and skillets are examples of such. Jewelry is another.

Many people hit the thrift shops in search of rings, brooches, and necklaces. The same goes for decent toys and children’s books. Toddlers aren’t too worried about name brands or if something is new.

Clothing, of course, is what most of us think of as the thrift store shopping experience. For donors, it’s important to only give clothes in wearable condition — no big stains, holes, or rips. It’s also good form to wash them beforehand as stores do not have the time or the funding that it’d take to launder all the clothing that is donated.

How to Give to Thrift Stores

The main idea when giving to a thrift store is to treat the donated stuff as if it’s being given to a friend or family member, someone who deserves respect. Check items for damage before they are given — plugin electronics and check clasps and zippers.

Clean everything as if you’d be willing to use it — wash the dishes, cookware, and clothes. Then, as much as possible, sort things into meaningful categories so that they can be easily sorted at the shop. This saves the store time, and time is money.
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In general, it’s easy to find thrift stores online. In fact, nowadays they sell much of their products online, just as the rest of the retail industry does. For donations, go online and check out the store’s preferences and hours of operation to streamline the process for them.

Just like it’s important to realize that the stores aren’t retail landfills, it’s also good to keep in mind that staff are often volunteers and well-meaning people, so it’s best to donate respectfully.

But, Do Donate to Thrift Stores

All that said, donating to these places is an amazing thing to do. It provides money for worthy causes. It provides people with repurposed goods at affordable prices.

It helps you get rid of items that weigh you down. And, it keeps all those tons of garbage out of the landfill. In short, whatever small effort it takes to prep items for donation, the outcome is irrefutably valuable to other people and the planet. Don’t we all want to do that sort of thing?

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THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE DONATING TO A THRIFT STORE

Top 5 thrift store donations | The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE DONATING TO A THRIFT STORE

Whether you are decluttering for your move or spring cleaning your home, you should consider donating your unwanted items to a thrift shop in Destin, FL. They will take most of your clothing, home and furniture donations. 

Before putting all your thrift donation items in the back of your car’s trunk, there are few things you need to know.

HOW YOUR ITEM DONATIONS HELP THE COMMUNITY

Thrift stores collect item donations in partnership with local charities and nonprofits. These organizations collect donations for us, and in return, we give them money. This money helps fund their many programs. 

TIPS FOR MAKING DONATIONS TO A THRIFT STORE 

Think about the condition of the items

Before you put an item into the donation box, think about its condition. One good rule of thumb when sorting donations is to consider if someone would want it. Would you give that item to someone you know?

If you said no, then it is probably a good idea to just recycle it. Some items that you should avoid donating to thrift stores are items that have stains, rips, tears, mold or missing pieces. Also, do not donate items that have been recalled or marked as unsafe. 

Check to see what items thrift stores accept

Now that you have sorted out your best items, it is time to check to see which items your thrift store accepts. Not all thrift stores are the same. Some thrift stores only accept clothing, home decor, furniture, appliances or toys. To help your sorting process, here is a list of items that Thrift World currently accepts: 

  • All kinds of clothing
  • Shoes and accessories 
  • Bedding
  • Home decor 
  • Small appliances 
  • Kitchenware 
  • Sporting goods 
  • Books, CDs, VHS tapes and records
  • Toys
  • Electronics 
  • Small furniture that is in good condition
  • Baby clothing and accessories
  • Jewelry
  • Hardware tools 
  • Non-reclining chairs 
  • Small TV chairs
  • Tables/Chairs 

Box and bag items 

Next, it is time to pack your thrift donation items. To help make everyone’s life a little easier, thrift stores do ask you to pack items before donating them. The best way to pack items is in plastic bags or boxes. 

By properly packing them, you help avoid items going missing, getting stained or breaking. If items are breakable, try to wrap them in newspaper or bubble wrap. You do not need to go out and buy these materials. Reuse those packing materials that came with all your online packages. 

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thrift shop Thrift Stores

2021 FASHION TRENDS

4 Spring 2020 Fashion Trends to Wear at Home | Vogue
2021 FASHION TRENDS

If one of your goals for 2021 is to upgrade your wardrobe, one of the best thrift store in Lebanon, TN can help!

This year vintage fashion from different decades is making a comeback from the ‘70s to early ‘00. Check out some of the fashion trends that will be taking over 2021 and that you’ll want to add to your wardrobe. 

LOOSE PANTS

Last year, loose-fitting jeans started to gain popularity. This trend is only going to continue to grow in 2021. Fashion experts predict that looser straight cut pants will be making huge waves.

Whether it is denim, trousers or athletic pants, looser and flared bottoms are making a comeback. You can hit your favorite thrift store to get some great loose pants options. Switch out those skinny jeans for mom jeans, boot cut, straight cut and flared jeans. 

STATEMENT COLLARS

Collars are often associated with a preppy style. However, in 2021 it is predicted that collars are making a comeback.

Many high fashion designers, like Gucci and Moda Al, used collars in their 2021 Spring/Summer collections. When shopping for this trend, find vintage-inspired collars that are rounded. You can wear this trend in shirts, sweaters and dresses. 

‘90S AND ‘00S BRANDS 

If you have been reminiscing about your childhood this quarantine, we have good news for you! The brands that you grew up with, like Gap and Kangol, are making a comeback.

Many GenZ influencers, like Emma Chamberlain, have been rocking this trend by wearing vintage sweaters and bucket hats. It is time to search for your past wardrobes and bring back those favorite brands. If you no longer have these brands, visit your favorite thrift store. 

REGENCY FASHION 

Vintage is coming back in a bold way. Thanks to the Netflix hit Bridgerton regency fashion is leaving a mark in people’s wardrobes. According to Lyst’s report, the search for corsets in the first four weeks of Brigerton’s release has increased 123 percent.

Not to mention all the searches for empire waist dresses and headbands have also increased. You can shop for these vintage fashion trends at affordable prices at the best thrift stores. 

UPCYCLED FASHION 

One of the biggest fashion trends for Spring/Summer 2021 is upcycled fashion. Whether consumers are upcycling their own clothes or buying from designers, upcycling will be significant.

Many designers, like Balenciaga, have taken the incentive to become more eco-friendly by using upcycled designs. This upcycling helps reduce textile waste and make use of deadstock fabrics. Upcycling your clothes is easy. You can use old clothing you no longer use or find items at a local thrift store. 

SHOPPING SUSTAINABLY 

It looks like sustainable fashion is not going anywhere in 2021. Fashion experts predict more consumers will be looking for sustainable fashion options in the new year. 

Barron’s reports that eight of 10 consumers say they value sustainability. People are looking for fashion brands that are more environmentally-friendly and ethical. As a result, many consumers are building sustainable wardrobes that include sustainable brands and second hand clothes. 

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thrift shop Thrift Stores thrifting

HOW TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE WARDROBE

Five Ways to a Sustainable Wardrobe - Planet Aid, Inc.
HOW TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE WARDROBE

One of the biggest trends this year was sustainability. From the looks of it, the popularity of it is not going anywhere. A recent survey found that two-thirds of Americans take into account sustainability when making a purchase. 

If you are part of that two-thirds, you are probably looking for ways to be more sustainable. Start living sustainably by building a sustainable wardrobe. The fashion choices you make impact the environment.

What is sustainability? 

Sustainability is meeting the demands for right now without limiting the resources for future generations. This means making choices that do not threaten the environment and are ethical for people. 

Why is sustainability important? 

Making more sustainable choices is important to protect the planet. Currently, the fashion industry is the second largest polluting industry, right after the oil industry.

It is estimated that each year about 85 percent of textiles that are produced end up in landfills. 

When producing clothes, these factories dump untreated toxic waste into rivers and lakes. These toxic chemicals cause harm to the aquatic environment.

Not only do these factories pollute water, but they also consume large amounts of water. In 2015, it was estimated that the fashion industry consumed 79 billion cubic meters of water. 

HOW TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE WARDROBE

Upcycle your old clothing  

One misconception that many people have is that you need to get rid of your existing clothes and buy new sustainable garments. However, this is not the case. You do not need to throw all your current clothes away to be sustainable.  

If you have a pair of jeans or a dress that you no longer wear, upcycle it. You can make the jeans into shorts or turn it into a purse. Dye your dress to make it look fresh. Or, you can transform that dress into a skirt. The possibilities are endless. 

Shop second hand 

If you need a new piece of clothing, shop second hand. Purchasing clothes second-hand helps reduce the number of clothes produced that pollute the environment. This allows clothing to be recycled and reused throughout a timespan. 

The best thrift shops in Lebanon, TN get new items daily to choose from. They carry your favorite brands at affordable prices. It also gives you a chance to discover new styles and trends. If any item does not fit, there is always the chance to alter it. 

Donate used clothing

As stated above, thrift stores supply you with the best selection of secondhand clothing. When it comes to downsizing your wardrobe, donate your clothes. Textile waste is a growing problem. Donating to your local thrift stores helps those clothes from ending up in landfills for many years. 

In addition to helping save the environment, these stores support local nonprofit organizations. For example, at Thrift World, we are partnered with local nonprofits and charitable organizations. They help us collect clothing and in return, we give them money for those donations. 

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thrift shop Thrift Stores thrifting

THE HISTORY OF THRIFT STORES

Pick your next outfit from these Instagram Thrift Stores of India - Local Samosa
THE HISTORY OF THRIFT STORES

Clothes have existed for as long as humans can remember. Back in the day, clothing was hand made and worn until it was no longer wearable.

 If a pair of pants got a hole, they were patched and worn again. Clothing was not tossed out as fast as it is today.  Studies have found that the average American throws out 82 pounds of textile waste every year. In the United States, that would be 11 million tons of textile waste produced every year. 

Have you ever wondered about the history of thrift stores and how they became so popular? Before you start searching thrift near me on your phone, our team wants to share how thrift stores started. 

WHAT IS A THRIFT STORE? 

Thrift stores in Lebanon, TN are typically shops that raise money for charities and nonprofit organizations. These kinds of stores depend on donations from people around their communities. People can make  donations at drop-off locations around a city.

 Some thrift stores, like Thrift World, also provide at-home pick-up. They usually accept donations like clothing, furniture, shoes, toys, electronics, home decor, etc. 

People tend to believe that resale shops and thrift stores are the same things. However, they are different. Resale shops are stores that sell merchandise that has been bought from individuals and resold. As stated above, thrift stores receive their merchandise from donors. 

HISTORY OF THRIFT STORES

Back in the day, clothing was not as disposable because it was expensive. Things began to change with the start of the Industrial Revolution. Clothing began to be produced in masses and at affordable prices. People would buy new clothes more often and tossed their old clothing. 

Also, city populations began to grow during this time. Living spaces were getting smaller, thus it caused more people to toss things out. However, people still had a stigma that wearing someone else’s clothes was a sign of a lack of money. 

Things began to change when Christian ministries started to collect items to sell to try to fund programs. It also helped that Americans during this time started to give more to charities. Throughout the years, thrift stores began to pop up, hire disabled people and even offer service operations. 

THRIFT STORES TODAY

In today’s age, thrifting has not changed and continues to rise in popularity. People still continue to donate their unused goods to local thrift stores to help nonprofit organizations, communities and even help save the planet. 

Today’s generations, like Gen Z and Millennials, are interested in helping the environment and reducing waste. Studies have found that 77 percent of Millennials prefer to buy clothing that helps the environment. 

Technology is also transforming the thrifting industry. Thrift stores are now able to sell their products to online shops and even through social media like Facebook. This gives thrifting customers the convenience of shopping wherever and getting it delivered to their doorstep. 

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