Why buying vintage clothing can help tackle environmental crisis

Why buying vintage clothing can help tackle the environmental crisis.

Why the clothing industry is bad for the environment?

The clothing industry is one of the most resource-intensive industries globally.  In fact, according to an UNECE report approximately 10% of global carbon emissions come from the production of clothing, not to mention the additional, often severe water pollution, waste, and use of toxic chemicals. After all that production, there is the harm of transportation and disposal of the goods once the consumer throws the item out. The exploding culture of fast fashion in recent years has caused the fast turnover of cheap clothes, adding to the already negative impact of the production of clothes on the environment, something we need to take note of, and change.

As consumers, it is important to make conscious decisions when purchasing. That’s why we have teamed up with Vintage Wholesale UK who supply physical retailers and E-commerce stores with vintage wholesale clothing such as original vintage branded t-shirts, sports items, sweatshirts, hoodies, jackets and many more items. When purchasing from these retailers we are encouraging a more sustainable and ethical approach to fashion. That’s why we are working together to make more sustainable fashion industry.  Let’s investigate the many positives as to why buy second-hand clothing.

What are the benefits of buying second hand clothing?

• Environmental benefits: As discussed above. Arguably the strongest consideration to change your behaviour to buy second-hand clothing is the clear positive environmental impact. Production of clothing reduces due to changes in demand reducing carbon emissions and water usage. You are recycling clothes that would otherwise be sent to landfill.  
• Cost savings: The cost-of-living crisis caused by rapid inflation has put many of us into a position where we need cheaper alternatives. This where second-hand clothing comes in. Second-hand clothing is usually much cheaper than buying new, apart from one off very rare item that collectors like, who knows you might stumble upon one. So, you save money on your clothing purchases and are get more value for the money you spend.
• Unique styles: Second-hand clothing offers a much wider range of styles and types of clothing. Particularly with retro and vintage styles back in fashion it allows you to purchase items not available with the fast fashion alternatives.
• High-quality items: With the import of cheaper fast fashion garments flooding the market, shopping for Second-hand clothing gives you the opportunity to purchase high-quality clothing that historically made with higher quality materials that are more durable and long-lasting. So not only is second-hand clothing cheaper it is higher quality.

• Community and local economy support: Whilst huge multinational corporations continue to turn huge profits in the fashion industry. Purchasing vintage clothing allows this cycle to be broke. You will be purchasing from a small business or local seller or even a thrift store. By engaging in these transactions, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of local economies. It also brings a sense of nostalgia and heritage to the community.

What is the future of the vintage clothing market?

According to the Independent and the Guardian vintage clothing is set to be bigger than fast fashion by 2030. The wave of the second-hand clothing is only just at the beginning and is expected to become one of the largest parts of fashion. Depop, a popular marketplace for vintage clothing, is currently achieving a year-on-year growth of 100%. The demand is soaring, and it is only going to become greater.  

In reaction to the massive rise of the vintage industry the larger brands are already incorporating vintage designs into new lines. Some companies are even selling vintage items through stores cross numerous cities and are even being showcased on the red carpet. Social media further shows the expansion of second-hand clothing. #Vintageclothing on Instagram has been posted a million times with celebrities, influencers and fashion enthusiasts showcasing their vintage finds trending a new space in the fashion industry. The digital community is galvanising their followers taking the vintage industry to new heights, the industry is recognising the tide is turning.

In conclusion, the change in the fashion industry is already happening, vintage clothing is the future of the fashion industry, and it is a much brighter and more sustainable future. Choosing second-hand items, we are actively saving ourselves money, supporting local businesses, acquiring higher quality and unique styled garments whilst helping the save our precious environment.

The demand is soaring, and it is only going to become greater.  Here is how you can join. You can get started spending a small £500 at Vintage Wholesale UK where if you use the code ‘10OFF’ and receive 10% off your order. Vintage Wholesale UK do the best mixed kilo bundles in the industry so we can recommend starting there to try different items.