Thrifting and second-hand shopping are more than just saving money  

Shopping on a budget is always ideal, especially when it comes to sustainability and finding new wardrobe additions. In recent years, thrifting and second-hand shopping have become more popular activities in order to help find these goodies.  

Thrifting/second-hand shopping is a concept where consumers embark on a massive scavenger hunt in search of one-of-a-kind clothes, accessories, home decor, and so much more without leaving a dent in their wallets.  

At thrift stores, the sky is the limit for what can be found. From current popular brands such as Zara and Ralph Lauren to vintage pieces by Nike and Disney, prices are heavily discounted compared to their retail prices.  

Photo credit: Isabella Disley  

Maya Goel, a 21-year-old from Ottawa, has been thrifting for three years, and 70 per cent of her wardrobe is second-hand.  

“The main benefit I’ve noticed is how unique my wardrobe feels. It’s truly special to have pieces that nobody else does. The other benefit I notice is how much it’s helped me develop my personal style,” said Goel.  

Goel has seen fast fashion brands, from Shein to high-end designer items, while thrifting, but mainly focuses on the quality and versatility.  

“When looking for clothes at the thrift store, you must be very creative and have a ‘vision’ for any piece you find. When I thrift, I tend to prioritize fabric/style rather than brand name,” said Goel.  

Goel’s favourite brands are Danier, Hollister and Victoria’s Secret, and she adores the Y2K style.  

“My favourite find ever is a vintage Juicy Couture Daydreamer bag. They usually sell online for $500 to $1000, so I was shocked to find one for $20 in Ottawa. It’s my most used bag and absolutely my pride and joy,” said Goel.  

Emmanuella Appiah, a 22-year-old also from Ottawa, began shopping second-hand when she started college, and one of her favourite finds is a polka dot dress.  

“You save so much money with it instead of paying full price for things,” said Appiah.  

Appiah scored another one of her favourite finds from Plato’s Closet.  

“My favourite find from Plato’s closet was a pair of Vans old school [shoes] for 21 bucks, and they are regularly 60 to 85 bucks in store,” said Appiah.  

Plato’s Closet is a hotspot for the younger generation to shop and sell, with over 500 stores across North America.  

“We sell items for about 50 to 70 per cent of the original retail price,” said Stacey MacLellan, owner of Ottawa’s locations in St. Laurent, Merivale and Hazeldean.   

MacLellan noted the many benefits of second-hand shopping.  

“Shopping second-hand offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, environmental advantages and the opportunity to find unique items. It’s a great way to reduce waste, support the local community and express yourself through unique styles,” said MacLellan.  

Additionally, to keep the sustainable cycle going, Plato’s Closet buys women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, rather than taking items for free.  

MacLellan explained how the selling process works.  

“We are looking for items that have been in the stores within the past 12 to 18 months. We will look at all items brought in, choose those we believe will sell well in the store, enter them into our computer to provide you a quote and pay cash on the spot for the items we would like to purchase from you. We sell items at 50 to 70 per cent off of retail prices and pay customers 30 to 40 per cent of that,” said MacLellan.  

There are many other thrift stores, including Value Village, Salvation Army, the Mission and more, located across Canada. There are also pop-up events, where small businesses sell vintage and second-hand clothing and accessories, usually during the weekends. For those who prefer shopping online, there are apps including Instagram, Poshmark and Depop to browse.  

Sustainability and discovering new, unique finds, all while saving money, are impactful reasons why thrifting and second-hand shopping are beneficial for everyone. You never know what you could find if you begin treasure hunting.  

Photo credit: Isabella Disley