Why I Am Only Buying Secondhand Clothes for the Rest of the Year

Recently, I have had friends and acquaintances share ways they are making lifestyle changes to save money. Meal-prepping, making coffee at home, and clipping more coupons at the grocery store, things like that. I can't remember who it was, but someone I know gave up buying anything but absolute necessities for Lent.

Fulfilled her Catholic duties and probably saved a pretty penny in the process. I'm not gonna lie, I love to shop. A little trinket, a new fun snack, home decor, and especially clothes.  Sometimes, if I have a little extra fun money, I'll hit up Five Below to really feel like a big spender. Haha!

My favorite "shopping sprees" this past month or so have honestly been at secondhand shops. Goodwill, St. Vincent, and locally owned thrift spots, so I had an idea. I think I can challenge myself to limit my spending and not buy any NEW clothes (including shoes and accessories) for the rest of the year.

Luckily, I just bought new underwear, so I should be good on that. Not sure how I feel about hand-me-down drawers at this stage of my life, ya know? Shoes could be questionable, and I am definitely worried about the weird costume needs that come along with my profession. What if I need a specific type of shirt or skirt and I can't find it?

Or what if I need an item quickly and easily without having to hunt for it? Obviously, I can always cheat if I need to, but it will be nice to cut back on Amazon purchases. I guess this will test the limits of my creativity. Maybe it will encourage me to get my sewing machine out or mend my own staple pieces if they can be fixed, rather than replaced.

It's a given that a dress from a thrift store is going to be cheaper than new at a big box store or boutique, so in this economy, I will definitely save money if I succeed in this challenge. Experts have also studied the benefits of shopping secondhand including how it benefits the environment.

Websites like Shein or Temu have become popular because they sell trendy items for super cheap. However, they are often horrible quality and quickly wear out or the owner quickly moves on to the next trend. It all has to end up somewhere. The Center for Biological Diversity shared,

Climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution are being driven in part by people’s ever-growing use of materials. More than half of all greenhouse gas emissions are embodied in the things we consume. That’s why secondhand represents an essential tool for shifting our use of materials and building a world where humans and wildlife can thrive. Secondhand items have a unique value in extending the lifespan of products, changing the way we consume, and contributing to a sustainable economy.

Save money and save the Earth? Sounds like a good deal to me! Plus, any thrifting guru will tell you, once you learn the art of the hunt, you'll get hooked to finding great pieces for your wardrobe at consignment or resale shops. Barb creates a weekly guide during Yard Sale Season so you can even check those out for good deals. If you aren't sure where to start, here is a guide of Owensboro Thrifting Spots you have to visit.

Holler at me if you need a shopping buddy! Where are some of your favorite places to buy secondhand?

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