One of the most popular, but unexpected trends to come out of Gen Z is thrifting. Before the trends renewal, thrifting was looked down upon especially in younger perspectives. So, what changed? The shift was that students want shopping to be personal and ethical, all for a fraction of the price.

The most interesting part about thrifting is the chase. Each store has different selections, meaning there’s a new adventure each time. The name brand pieces that we all wish to have are right at our finger tips. Pieces that would be good for a night out, a new internship, or even a stroll around the French Quarter. All without feeling a sense of guilt.

Generation Z is one of the more socially conscious generations.

One of the main problems that raises concern is the rise of fast fashion. Fast fashion refers to when cheap copies of high fashion are produced at a mass scale. This causes microplastics and the emission of greenhouse gasses to spread at a higher rate, which is harmful to the environment. It’s understandable why fast fashion is so popular: it’s quick and affordable. 

But that doesn’t always mean good.  

There’s been multiple situations where I go to one of these fast fashion sources and raise my eyebrow at the fact that it’s not only uncomfortable to wear, but it doesn’t fit my body right either. Then to find out that these big companies are taking away resources from the countries that need it all for something not worth the effort. That’s absurd! People shouldn’t have to resort to these non ethical sources because the ethical ones cost an arm and a leg. With thrifting you can shop affordably without having to enter that market at all.

Now we can shop ethically with the tap of a finger, with online thrifting. Some of the most popular websites being Poshmark and Depop. The convenience of online shopping is a great one.  Even though I’ve lived in New Orleans my whole life, I still don’t have my license. So that means I don’t have access to a car like a lot of people in college. 

With online shopping, I won’t feel like a leach. It also gives you a wider selection of options that fit your style. And with social media like Instagram or TikTok, millions of people are showing the potential of thrifting and how you can turn what’s old for someone else new for you.

But if you still want some more local options there are plenty around the city and our school. 

For example, the school holds annual sales; one took place at the beginning of the school year, with another following at the end of the spring semester. If you want a free option, you can visit the career closet that is located in the Career Development Center in Monroe library. There are also different shops around the area like Buffalo Exchange, Funky Monkey, and Out of the Closet where you could find a new addition to your wardrobe without having to empty your wallet.

At the end of the day, thrifting is more than just a trend for Gen Z, it’s a lifestyle that blends creativity, sustainability, and accessibility. It challenges the culture of fast fashion while giving students and young adults the chance to express themselves without breaking the bank. Whether it’s hunting for a vintage gem in a local shop, scrolling through online thrift platforms, or swapping clothes on campus, thrifting allows us to shop with purpose. It proves that fashion can be affordable, ethical, and fun, all while giving old clothes a brand-new story.