In with the old (and out with the new) – second-hand clothing market set to overtake the fast fashion movement

Consumers are increasingly turning towards second-hand clothing, studies are revealing, with conscientious buyers set to make pre-loved items a bigger market than so-called ‘fast fashion’ by 2029.

Fast fashion, commonly seen on the High Street, focuses on regular changes to clothing ranges, cheaply made garments, and low prices, meaning it has seen a boom in recent decades, as fashion conscious shoppers became accustomed to having the latest look. But it also results in many tonnes of clothing – much of which is made from non-recyclable fabrics, being sent to landfill.

In a poll conducted by waste management agency, BusinessWaste.co.uk, almost half of the 1500 respondents (45%) said they would buy clothes that had been pre-owned. This mirrors other studies that show that the second-hand clothing market was set to double in the next five years – and overtake the fast fashion movement in the next decade.

However, it seems that consumers are beginning to shake off their prejudices about wearing second hand clothing. While just 20% said they currently regularly buy second-hand clothes, a huge amount said they could be influenced to start doing so

What would encourage you to buy more second-hand clothing?

• Friends or family doing so first 90%
• Celebrities doing so 94%
• Nothing would 6%

Interestingly, while both younger and older fashionistas were seemingly happy to shop second-hand – 80% of 16 – 21-year olds and 91% of over sixties, respectively – the overall percentage averaged at 45%, suggesting that there are cultural elements at play.

Of those who said they would be happy to buy second-hand garments, there was a clear consensus that image played a part, with charity shops still carrying a slight stigma. 62% said they would be happy to purchase from charity shops, much lower than the figure who would buy elsewhere.

Would you buy second-hand clothes from:

• A charity shop? 62%
• A High Street retailer? 80%

Interestingly, 92% said they’d buy second-hand clothing from a High Street retailer if celebrities or friends did first, suggesting that there remain some hang-ups about being part of the ‘in crowd’ when it comes to fashion.

Hall added: “People are turning to second-hand clothing, not just out of financial necessity, but out of choice. There’s a huge opportunity here for retailers to improve their green credentials and tap into a growing number of consumers who would like to buy stylish clothing, but without the ethical concerns.

Some well-known retailers already feature vintage or pre-loved selections in store and there’s clearly room for these to be more widely available, consumers still have the benefit of shopping curated lines of (second-hand) pieces in line with their preferred style, but without the environmental impact.”

Find a list of local charity shops here:

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/business/C/135/charity-shops