by Jessie Hardie

From the slow and steady disappearing of seasons from the high end, to the stigma of fast fashion on the high street, the fashion industry is becoming more in touch with its role in the climate crisis. Focusing your clothes shop to items that are second hand and sustainable is not just a simple way to be eco-friendly, but a way to keep up with the changing face of fashion. With the rise of Y2K fashion and other retro trends second-hand clothes resale apps are flourishing.

Arguably the most well-known second-hand app is Depop, the platform is designed to look very much like Instagram, so it is easy to use. From people who just want to sell their old clothes to aspiring e-shop owners, Depop has amassed over 11 million users. Other second-hand apps are Vestiaire Collective, Vinted, eBay and Hardly Ever Worn It, which range in pricing and markets. There are apps for every need.

However, understandably, it is not always possible to buy second hand. Therefore, doing your research into the sustainability of companies you choose to support with your business is very important. ‘Good on you’ is an app which makes this research easy. It gives you a simple profile of shops which includes ratings on the labour conditions, effect on the environment and animal protection. It goes on to give a longer explanation of these ratings and gives higher rating alternatives to lower rated shops, along with discount codes.

With many things, as with second hand and sustainable clothes there is inclusion problems. One of the emerging material problems in this industry is the lack of plus-sizing. Additionally, there is a lack of understanding of wealth, and that sometimes things are just too expensive, and people do not have the material means to choose other non-fast fashion clothes options. On top of all attempts to be sustainable and buy second hand, reducing overall consumption is the most essential positive climate behaviour. And hopefully, with time, will become the most fashionable.