Secondhand September

People have started to understand the importance of thrift shopping more and more. With that has come a multitude of days to celebrate thrift shopping, such as Thrift Shop Day and Secondhand Wardrobe Day. Now, we’re celebrating Secondhand September.

To properly celebrate Secondhand September, we are sharing some facts about shopping, tips to make the most of your thrift trips, and some of our favorite fan finds!

Did You Know?

The EPA estimates the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing per year. Donations to your local Goodwill helped divert 11.2 million pounds from landfills last year alone.

Not only is donating to Goodwill help decrease landfill waste, shopping at Goodwill helps promote a reduce and reuse mentality. Secondhand September helps to encourage thrifting higher quality items that will hold up for multiple wears. The fewer people that choose fast fashion over sustainable shopping options the less we harm our environment.

These are just a few ways fast fashion makes an impact on our environment, according to Business Insider,

• The fashion industry is responsible for more than 10% of the carbon emissions created by humans.
• Textile dye is the second-largest polluter of water
• It is estimated to take more than 400 gallons of water to make one cotton t-shirt
• It can take up to 2,000 gallons of water to produce a pair of jeans
• Clothing production has roughly doubled since 2000.

Shopping at your local Goodwill for items that can be given new life is a great way to do your part.

Thrift Tips

Now that you know the benefits of thrifting. Let’s talk about some tips this Secondhand September that you can apply year-round.

Shop Around

Don’t just visit one location, visit multiple Goodwill stores. Goodwill is dependent upon donations of community members and the volume of donations can vary with the season. You may find that your favorite location is not the one closest to you.

Shop Often

Every store completely changes over every FOUR weeks. So, if you haven’t shopped recently, there is a whole new store waiting for you.

Shop All Sizes

No two brands fit the same! Always check multiple sizes on the racks. Skipping this one simple step may make you miss out on your newest favorite addition to your closet. It’s also a good idea to shop the men’s department, especially as we come into sweater season.

Fan Finds

We love seeing your #GoodwillFinds, tag us for a chance to be featured. Check out these thriftonistas for more inspiration!