“Made Me Laugh So I Had To Get It”: 44 People Whose Thrift Store Visits Made Their Weeks (New Pics)

Thrifting has risen in popularity in recent years. The UK, for one, has “Secondhand September,” which began in 2019. According to its launchers, Oxfam, it is “all about challenging yourself to create more sustainable shopping habits for a fairer future – without compromising on style.”

Oxfam noted that there are 1.6 billion unused clothes currently owned by the UK population, and that amount is projected to “almost stretch from Earth to Mars and back” by 2050. 

At the same time, it is estimated that 99% of clothing items in the UK spend most of their time in closets, with an average of fewer than five days worn.

The United States is also seeing a thrift boom. According to Forbes, the US secondhand apparel market has grown significantly, from $28 billion in 2019 to $49 billion in 2024 and $56 billion in 2025. 

The report also noted that thrift stores have seen a 40% surge in foot traffic since the second quarter of 2019.

Gen Z, in particular, has appeared to embrace thrifting more than any other generation. Goodwill cites several reasons, including that thrift stores offer unique pieces that encourage self-expression. 

However, it is also about championing sustainability, which many Gen Z people prioritize. Goodwill notes that 10% of global carbon emissions are estimated to have come from the fashion industry, raising awareness of sustainable living through thrifting.

Reselling has also become a trend among shoppers. According to Rati Levesque, CEO of online luxury marketplace TheRealReal, resale has “gone from disruptor to cornerstone” among consumers. 

“The result is a moment in fashion not shaped by brands or trends, but by individuals expressing their personal style,” Levesque told Forbes.