Thrifting!

Thrifting!

George Merkt, Contributor

Thrifting clothes has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only is thrifting a sustainable way to shop, it also offers a unique and affordable way to express personal style. In this article, we will explore the benefits of thrifting, its rise in popularity, and some great thrift store locations in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota.

One of the biggest benefits of thrifting is its sustainability. By purchasing secondhand clothing, you are helping to reduce the amount of clothing that ends up in landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans discard about 13 million tons of clothing each year. By thrifting, you are helping to give these clothes a second life, which reduces the need for new clothes to be manufactured. Additionally, thrifting reduces the carbon footprint associated with the manufacturing and transportation of new clothing.

Thrifting also offers an affordable way to express personal style. Many thrift stores offer unique and one-of-a-kind pieces that cannot be found in traditional retail stores. This allows individuals to express their creativity and individuality through their clothing choices without breaking the bank. Additionally, by purchasing secondhand clothing, individuals can afford to experiment with different styles and trends without committing to expensive purchases.

In recent years, thrifting has become increasingly popular. This can be attributed to a number of factors, including the rise of sustainable fashion, the desire for unique clothing, and the influence of social media. Many celebrities and influencers have embraced thrifting, which has helped to popularize the practice. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a renewed interest in thrifting as individuals look for affordable ways to shop and support their local communities.

As Helen Mirren says: “The whole thing of clothes is insane. You can spend a dollar on a jacket in a thrift store. And you can spend a thousand dollars on a jacket in a shop. And if you saw those two jackets walking down the street, you probably wouldn’t know which was which.”

If you’re interested in thrifting in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota, there are many great options to choose from. One of the most popular thrift stores in the area is the Arc’s Value Village. With locations in Richfield, New Hope, Bloomington, and Brooklyn Center, the Arc’s Value Village offers a wide variety of clothing and household items. The store is known for its affordable prices and high-quality merchandise.

Another great option is the Goodwill store located in St. Paul. This store offers a wide selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices. The store also offers a selection of vintage and retro clothing, which is perfect for individuals looking for unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.

If you’re looking for designer clothing at a fraction of the cost, check out the Clothes Mentor in Maple Grove. This store specializes in high-end clothing and accessories and offers a wide variety of designer brands at affordable prices.

Finally, if you’re looking for a thrift store with a cause, check out the Bridging thrift store in Bloomington. Bridging is a nonprofit organization that provides furniture and household items to families in need. The thrift store supports the organization’s mission by selling donated clothing, furniture, and household items at affordable prices.

Thrifting is an affordable way to create your own style and I often find myself thrifting grails!

— Bennett

In conclusion, thrifting is a sustainable and affordable way to shop for clothing. Its rise in popularity in recent years can be attributed to a number of factors, including the desire for unique clothing, the influence of social media, and the rise of sustainable fashion. If you’re in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota, be sure to check out some of the great thrift store options available, including the Arc’s Value Village, Goodwill, Clothes Mentor, and Bridging thrift store. Happy thrifting!