Who ever said used clothing went out of style?  The proliferation of used clothing shops throughout the globe would indicate both a need and an appreciation for used clothing.

Yes, times have changed.  This is evidenced by the popularity of “retro fashion”.  It wasn’t all that long ago that some would wince at the mention of 1970’s clothing.  Television stations even ceased airing certain movies because the apparel worn by the actors would initiate unintentional laughter.  This sentiment has changed significantly as 1970’s style clothing is hot again.  And, no, this does not refer to modern reproductions of 1970’s styles.  People are flocking to “70’s Retro” shops to purchase authentic used clothes from the “Me Generation”.  This had led some to take a second look at purchasing all types of used clothing.  It has also shown many the value of donating clothes to these types of shops.

At one time, purchasing used clothing had a number of unfortunate, negative stereotypes.  Namely, it was assumed only the “indigent” purchased “second hand” items.  This is a somewhat flawed assessment because people of all economic backgrounds purchase used clothing.  Also, it infers something is wrong those that need affordable clothing.  Really, there is nothing wrong with purchasing used clothes.  The clothes are usually in excellent shape and are available at a really great deal.

It is no understatement to say there are many great bargains on quality used clothing shops.  Often, you can even find amazing deals on apparel you would not expect to find.  For example, men’s business suits are frequently purchased at thrift shops at amazingly low prices.  Sports and athletic apparel are commonplace in these shops as well.

Also, if you are not interested in purchasing used clothes, it would not hurt to donate clothes to your local thrift shops.  These shops are generally not for profit venues that seek to provide low income people with quality clothing, furniture, and household items.  The alternative to donating clothes to these thrift shops is often throwing the clothes out.  Such an option is unfortunate because there are needy people who would greatly benefit from donated clothes.  And just as there is no limit to the types of clothes you might find in a used clothing shop, there is no limit to the types of clothes you can donate.  Whether the clothing is children’s wear, costuming, or formal dress, it can find a home through a thrift shop.

Additionally, simply discarding your clothes is the antithesis to conservation.  If you deplete the market of used clothes then you are necessitating the production of new items.  This, of course, comes with many excess energy expenditures all down the line.  Remember, the raw materials for the clothing need to be refined; the factories producing the clothing need to expend electricity to produce the clothing; and fuel needs to be burned to transport the clothing among many other energy expenditures.  So, you could consider donating used clothing to be another form of environmental recycling.

Finally, there is also a great sense of personal satisfaction you can acquire from donating used clothes.  You can take solace in the fact that you are helping someone in need who has great use for used clothes.  Such a feeling is a rewarding one and provides a great sense of personal satisfaction.

In parting, you can purchase or donate used clothes. Just don’t overlook them!