The Connotation of Thrifting

This post will discuss the shift in connotation of thrifting from negative to positive.

Thrifting, now seen as a trendy and accessible hobby, was not always viewed this way. Going to thrift stores, such as Goodwill, was seen as a last resort for people who could not afford to purchase new clothes or shoes. This aided in developing the negative connotation of thrifting, labeling it as cheap, unfashionable, and unsanitary. Growing up, I hated going to the thrift store as the connotation of it being “for poor people” was drilled into my mind by peers. Kids were bullied for not having the latest in fashion. However, this stigma has changed greatly as now thrifting is seen as an affordable way to revive vintage fashion. History has repeated itself as old fashion trends are coming back to life, and thrifting has become the easiest and cheapest way to find items like 80s style jeans or, my favorite, 80s-90s vintage NFL pullovers.

I asked some of my peers through an Instagram story, “Why do you go thrifting?” A few responses stated, “To find stuff that actually fits my body shape”, “To find old man sweaters”, and “…people send brand new stuff there!!!” However, there was one word that appeared in almost every response…CHEAP!

As I stated before, the word cheap formerly had a negative connotation, as cheap typically equalled poor quality. However, the word cheap is now seen as a plus, especially for college students like myself and the respondents. It has now been established that good quality, gently used clothes (some even with the tags still on) can be found in thrift stores all over the world. Due to what is seen now as accessibility rather than solely for people who can’t afford new clothes, the connotation of thrifting has shifted for the better, creating a new hobby for not only college students, but everyone seeking to update their style without breaking the bank.