Photo via Instagram @holythrift
Photo via Instagram @libraryokc
sustainably stylish
BY SKY LEON
The average American woman buys 60 new pieces of clothing a year, only to then send 10.5 million tons of clothing into landfills each year, and that’s not even counting what ends up as donations. The culprit? Fast fashion—think Forever 21 or H&M. Modern-day clothing stores have been largely reduced to cheap versions of current trends that most women will only wear once or twice, only to toss it out when the next trend takes its place. These stores not only have huge carbon footprints due to their production methods, but also drain your wallet while sporting pieces with less than unique designs. The solution? Sustainable fashion. The movement began as a way to reduce unethical working conditions, as well as the huge environmental impact that the fashion industry causes. But now more than ever, sustainable fashion has proven to be more of a trend than fast fashion, both in quality and style.
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There are a multitude of ways to shop sustainably, but in many ways, the most beneficial way is to shop second-hand. Shopping second-hand means not only being environmentally friendly (and wallet-friendly), but also finding styles that speak specifically to your individuality. Instead of purchasing a baby tee from H&M that you probably already have a million of, shopping second hand often means finding gems that you would have never discovered otherwise—think Oscar De La Renta silk blouses and true 60’s bell bottoms that couldn’t be replicated elsewhere.
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Here, we list just a few local thrift stores that are making a real and purposeful difference.
Outreach Thrift
With locations in both Norman and Midwest City, Outreach Thrift works with local churches to find struggling Oklahoma families with clothing and household items they may need. From Harold’s 80’s mules to vintage pant suits, Outreach Thrift is full of both thrift and vintage treasures. And if you really need an excuse to shop, you can rest assured knowing that you’re making a positive difference in some of your neighbor’s lives through your new looks.
Photo by Rianne Gerritis via Unsplash
HOLY THRIFT
If you’re looking to shop from home, check out online vintage shop, Holy Thrift. The online store boasts a mix of different vintage and thrift vendors, ranging anywhere from ruched tie-up blouses to red leather trench coats. Every piece is handpicked, offering bold, unique styles without the hassle of hunting for the pieces. Prices run a bit higher than most true thrift stores, but the pieces are sure to make you a standout in just about any crowd.
Photo via Instagram @holythrift
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THRIFTOLOGY
If you’re not into scheduling out your days, or you simply just don’t have it in you to leave your quarantine cocoon, check out Thriftology’s Instagram to purchase pieces online. We recommend checking out their denim section, as they typically have pieces for less than $20. Check out their Instagram stories to see the latest sales, and make sure to snatch your new closet additions, as items tend to go fast.
Photo via Wix
LIBRARY
If you prefer to have wardrobe options, there's a magical little place for you in OKC's Paseo District—think an extension of your closet with more standout designer pieces for less dollars and more style. Library is a clothing service that provides subscriptions, so you can switch up your wardrobe as often as your fashion-loving heart may desire. Even if you get tired of your beloved new designer piece, you can be sure that it will end up with the next fashion lover. Library offers both online and in-person shopping.
Photo via Instagram @libraryokc
Although we may grab a Forever 21 baby tee or an H&M cable-knit sweater from time to time, remember that dressing sustainably means that you're helping the planet—plus, you’ll look good while doing it too.