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In this era of fast fashion, wearing new clothes for more than a few weeks seems out of trend and is frowned upon by many. Even in the case of electronics, one who has used one smartphone model for more than one or two years is peer pressured into buying a newer model smartphone for a technological upgrade.
On the other hand, the cost of these new products is increasing daily, but the same can't be said for disposable income. Thus, in recent years, there has been a trend to buy second-hand items that still look as fresh as new and perfectly usable, known as thrift shopping.
Thrift shopping is not just a trend; it's a community. It's a growing movement transcending socioeconomic boundaries, attracting individuals from all walks of life. It's about more than just finding a good deal; it's about connecting with others who share a passion for sustainable living and budget-friendly fashion.
In Dhaka, the thrill of the hunt awaits. Numerous shops offer second-hand electronics, from watches and smartphones to fans and furniture. Hidden gems await discovery in the narrow alley opposite the Multiplan Center or the roadside stalls near Mohammadpur Bihari camp.
Even upscale neighbourhoods boast markets where second-hand furniture and fashion items are proudly displayed, attracting the environmentally conscious and budget-savvy alike.
The shift to thrift shopping is cost-effective and culturally and environmentally conscious. The global pandemic has heightened the demand for sustainable fashion alternatives, emphasizing the need for waste reduction.
Online platforms like bikroy.com and social media have made purchasing and selling second-hand items easy, highlighting the growing demand for thrifted items.
Fariha Mim, owner of thrift shop Aurèle, expressed her opinion on why people buy thrift clothes: "There are four reasons. One is a reasonable price, in trend, fun to collect, and environment friendly. Many people choose to make dresses inspired by Pinterest at a cheaper cost rather than buying an expensive dress from renowned brands to wear for a few weeks. My shop, Aurèle, specializes in producing such dresses; they are fun to wear and cheaper than most conventional stores."
Social media has been a powerful catalyst for popularizing thrift shopping. On Instagram, the clothing shop pages owned by individual entrepreneurs are bustling with activity, where items often sell within an hour of posting. These digital marketplaces cater to a diverse audience, from those seeking vintage fashion to those looking for affordable household items.
The phenomenon of 'van shopping' shows the trend's reach, with individuals from all walks of life browsing the goods displayed on street vendors' vans.
In the case of van shopping, there are some things worth looking out for. Raihan Siddique, a student from the Department of Economics at the University of Dhaka, gave his insights on this. He says, "While browsing for clothes or shoes in street vans, look out for what colour of lights they are using. If the vendor uses blueish light to display his products, they might have some defects, and their price is generally the cheapest. If the vendor uses white light, the product quality is almost the best, and the price is worth it even if it's higher than other vendors offer."
For many people, thrift shopping has influenced fashion and consumerism. It's no longer about brand-new things but rather the journeys each has made.
Pride in wearing thrifted clothing or using a second-hand gadget comes from understanding that these products have been given a second life.
Thrift shopping is a practice that reflects values such as sustainability, affordability, and individualism. As the trend grows, it becomes evident that thrift shopping is more than a passing craze but a long-term shift in how people live their lives.