Over the years, thrifting has gotten a bad rep. It has been regarded as something only "poor" people do.

This isn't true. Don't get me wrong, thrift shops and second-hand shops are a great resource for those who cannot afford the (ridiculous) pricing of some of the more popular stores in today's society; but there are so many reasons to choose these stores over the mainstream, retail companies.

1. It's Cheaper!

Let's state the obvious here, if you shop at second-hand stores you are going to save a significant amount of money. The pricing method, however, depends on the shop. Some have set amounts for certain items and some do it by the weight of your entire purchase. On top of these already low prices, most thrift shops have special discount days. So the savings are never ending really!

2. You'll Be Unique!

One of the beautiful things about thrifting is that your clothes are going to be unique. You have so much more artistic freedom! You won't be wearing what everyone else is wearing. Now, if you wanted, you could go out and look for items that are "on trend" and find them just as easily.

But there are so many extraordinary pieces from past decades to be found! You don't need to wear what's trending at the moment. You can make anything work if you wear it with enough confidence!

3. It's Ethical!

These days, in an effort to lower the prices of their merchandise, stores are using more and more unethical ways of producing their products. One of the ways that they do this is with the use of child labor.

They pay children in other (mostly third world) countries next to nothing to work in incredibly dangerous environments and make shirts, shoes, pants, etc. By not buying directly from the store you are not supporting them and their unconventional methods. Doesn't that make you feel good knowing that?

Thrifting genuinely is the superior form of consumerism. They have everything you need at great prices. Everything that you get will be unique, beautiful, and have a history behind it. Remember these things the next time you want to go shopping. I promise you won't be disappointed.