The Mycenaean

Teenage shopping trends have shifted significantly in recent years, with thrifting becoming more popular than ever. These stores have grown in popularity for many reasons, including the variety of clothes, the ability to find items you wouldn’t find elsewhere, and the potential to choose from a wide selection of items.

Teenagers are drawn to thrift stores for various reasons. In the past few years, they have become very eco-conscious, and thrifting correlates with this mindset. People can upcycle used clothes by thrifting and turning them into wardrobe staples. 

Y2K and Grunge styles are making a comeback with a contemporary update. Thrift stores can allow teens to find hidden gems and unique pieces of clothing that would be harder to find elsewhere or for that cheap price. Owning a vintage dress or shirt is highly sought after, and many resellers mark up the prices of these items. However, the true luxury of thrift stores lies in the ability to find these same pieces for a fraction of the cost. Additionally, when someone purchases a vintage item, there’s the added appeal that these pieces are extremely rare, meaning that the buyer is likely one of only a few individuals to own such an item. 

“I like to find cool T-shirts and jeans at thrift stores. I can always find really cool jeans and, if I’m lucky sometimes good sweatshirts,” said Madison Lamm, senior. Other outside factors can also affect the rise in thrifting. Social media can also play a big role in this rise. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have made this rise popular, with influencers styling vintage clothes and showing off their hauls to their followers. 

Another reason thrifting has gained popularity is the community that it fosters. Many people who thrift enjoy the experience more when they are with friends. This aspect makes thrifting more than just shopping, but a great bonding experience between people with similar interests as you.

Economic factors also play a huge role. Due to inflation and the rising cost of living, thrifting can offer an affordable option compared to shopping at a fast-fashion retailer. Additionally, the allure of websites like ThreadUp, Depop, and Poshmarket can also lure in shoppers with the promise of a few extra bucks or rewards to get new clothes. People can resell their clothes for a fraction of the price on apps like these, earning rewards to buy new clothes or receive coupons and discounts in return.

Additionally, family members can get people to enjoy the act of thrifting. For many, tagging along with family members when shopping can spark an interest and lead to the love of thrifting. “My grandmother got me into it,” said Lamm. Shopping with family can help someone explore different styles and develop their own.

Over the years, teenagers have become increasingly aware of fashion and how to style themselves. How a person appears and how they dress reflects that which could also be another reason why thrifting has become popular. At a thrift store, people can pick out very specific items tailored to their taste and style. Many people can also take inspiration from Pinterest or Instagram when shopping, which can help foster new ideas.

Overall, teenagers lately have become more self-aware about things like fashion which could be one of many reasons why thrifting has experienced a rise in popularity. Additionally, things like inflation, reviving trends, family influence, and upcycling can also be credited. From shoes to vintage dresses, thrift stores offer a variety of pieces that many people can be interested in.