Gen Z: leading the rise of RESALE

In today’s consumer-centric world, where trends come and go at lightning speed, a new generation is leading the charge in reshaping the fashion industry. Gen Z is taking a stand against the harmful effects of fast fashion. The tech-savvy and socially conscious generation embraces resale culture as a way to show off personal style while making a positive impact.

While previous generations dismissed secondhand clothing as outdated, unsanitary, or unfashionable, Gen Z is flipping the narrative. According to ThredUp’s 2023 Resale Report, the global secondhand market is projected to nearly double by 2027. This would increase the industry’s worth to around $350 billion. The strong trajectory of these findings is backed by none other than Gen Z. Additionally, according to the report, 40% of purchases made by Gen Z are pre-owned items. Thus, exemplifying the young consumers’ desire to distance themselves from micro trends and brands that operate unethically. 

Conscious consumerism and technology are at the forefront of this movement toward a more circular economy. Online platforms like DePop, ThredUp, Poshmark, and eBay have made buying and selling pre-loved items easier than ever. Re-sellers have also been able to foster communities through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Top DePop Seller, Jacklyn Wells of @jacksvntg, is a prime example. The 19-year-old has amassed over 60k followers on Depop and 32k on Instagram. With her Depop items sometimes selling out in less than an hour, the Gen Zer has been able to use IG to foster a community and promote circular fashion.

It’s clear that Gen Z’s embrace of resale culture is undoubtedly shifting the fashion industry and pushing it towards a more sustainable future. While millennials have made leeway in the space, it’s Gen Z that has been able to reshape the way people think about shopping secondhand.