6 Accessible Ways To Shop Sustainably In Your Community
In light of the #slowfashionmovement, what better opportunity to share with you my 6 sustainable shopping tips that can help you save some bucks, find unique pieces and have fun through the process of searching. I've been thrifting for a few years now and have accumulated some knowledge on thrifting and shopping sustainably in our own communities. There are so many fun ways to shop, so let's head right into it!
#1 Going through friends'/neighbours' bags of items
Before your friends, neighbours or relatives (the list goes on ...) throw their unwanted items away, request a donation from their pile! You may dig some interesting items that can be a score to your current wardrobe or home. Also, be reminded to be responsible for disposing or recycling the rest of the unwanted items in the right bin/location.
#2 Visit your local thrift stores (if there's any)
Finding a thrift store has become easier with a few Google searches. Screenshot your searches and plan a date to visit. Get your GPS ready, a tote bag, a water bottle (A must hydrate), and a hand sanitiser. Be early and patient as you take time to check out each aisle or rack. Gems can be hidden in between pieces, so be sure to look through them all.
#3 Surf online thrift/consignment store
The online thrift store is a newer alternative to the physical thrift store. I always go to Carousell whenever I have something that I want to buy. I'll search for similar items before buying them first-hand. It's easy to shop and you can buy something in your own comfort. Sometimes it can be a hit or miss, depending on the seller. So, be sure to check reviews as well as zoom in on the photos or requesting for more details. Online thrift stores like Carousell are a great platform to sell preloved items too.
#4 Visit charity/garage sales, markets
This type of thrifting is considered to be a hit or miss. You mark down the date of the event and be excited when the day comes as you never know what you can expect out of it. You can possibly hit the jackpot when you find a vintage piece or the seller's personal collection item. These types of events are rare in my area, as it's not our culture to host a market or garage sale. However, you're in luck if your area hosts such an activity. The great thing about thrifting through charity or market sales is that you'll be able to bargain for the best deal. Have fun treasure hunting!
#5 Support local/indie/small boutiques
Experience the personal touch and handiwork when you support your local creators and shops. Many artisans in my hometown or country produce amazing quality and unique pieces that you can't get elsewhere. Unique pieces can possibly (not necessarily) come with a hefty price tag but usually, they are made with higher quality and craftsmanship. The greatest of all is that the items are crafted with love. Be sure to check out the ones nearest to you through social media (Instagram) or with friends!
#6 Swap
Host a swap party with your friends or even the community! A mini-swap with close friends is just as fun as thrifting! You'll be surprised by what you could exchange. A few ideas to host this on a bigger scale include collecting unused clothes, books, decors, etc from neighbours or friends or clubs. Pick a date and area. Don't forget to invite your community through social media or text messages!
Let me know in the comments below if you have other thrifting tips! Speak soon x
All photos by Prisc
Comments
Post a Comment
Thanks for visiting. Love reading your comments!