A Guide to Second-Hand Shopping: Your Glossary to Sustainable Style

With the rise of thrifting and online resale platforms, here’s a quick glossary of key terms to help you navigate the world of pre-loved fashion.

1. Circular Fashion

Circular fashion refers to a system where clothes are reused, repaired, and recycled instead of being discarded. Second-hand shopping supports this sustainable model by giving items a second life.

2. Pre-Loved

A positive term for second-hand items, emphasizing that these pieces have been cherished before and are ready for a new owner.

3. Vintage

Clothing that is at least 20-30 years old, often associated with specific eras. Vintage pieces are valued for their timeless style and craftsmanship.

4. Thrifted

Items purchased from thrift stores, often at low prices. Thrifting is a fun and affordable way to shop while promoting sustainability.

5. Upcycled

Upcycling involves transforming old items into something new or of higher value, often creating unique pieces from vintage or discarded clothing.

6. Resale

Refers to the selling of pre-owned goods. Online platforms like Poshmark and Depop make it easier than ever to buy and sell second-hand clothing.

7. Sustainable Fashion

Fashion that prioritizes eco-friendly materials, ethical production, and reducing waste. Second-hand shopping is a key part of sustainable fashion, helping reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion.

8. Consignment

Stores that sell second-hand items on behalf of the original owner, typically focusing on higher-end or designer goods.

9. Fast Fashion

Mass-produced, low-cost clothing that cycles through trends quickly. Second-hand shopping offers an alternative to fast fashion by promoting longer-lasting items.

10. Flipping

Buying second-hand items and reselling them for a profit. Flippers often specialize in vintage or designer goods.

11. Condition Grading

A system used to describe the wear of second-hand items, ranging from “New with Tags” to “Fair” or “Poor” condition.

12. Authenticated

The process of verifying the authenticity of designer items to ensure they are genuine, often done by experts on resale platforms.

13. Swap

Exchanging clothes or accessories with others, often through swap events or online platforms. It’s an eco-friendly and budget-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe.

14. Eco-Friendly Fashion

Clothing produced with minimal environmental impact. Buying second-hand is an important part of eco-friendly fashion, as it reduces waste and the need for new resources.

Hopefully with these terms in mind, you'll feel confident navigating the world of second-hand fashion. Whether you're hunting for vintage or sustainable finds, embracing pre-loved clothing is a stylish, eco-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe. Happy thrifting!