By June Peers & Ashley Gilbert

In an age where Pinterest is often dominated by UGGs, coquette bows, and baggy pants, high schoolers are quick to pick up on these trends. What first appeared to be microtrends have now become a prominent part of the fashion zeitgeist. 

During cold weather, students typically wear oversized hoodies, flared sweatpants, and boots. This is good in some ways, as we see that after years of different fashion cycles, some trends have remained consistent, including Stussy hoodies and Adidas Sambas. Despite the presence of these fashion staples, there still remains a plethora of microtrends that are stuffed at the back of our closets, including bubble skirts, RipnDip, and Supreme clothing.

With our wardrobes constantly cycling through microtrends, we depend on fast fashion to keep up with the constantly evolving trends. This cycle is exacerbated by the influence of social media, a platform that uses advanced algorithms to detect preferences and patterns, and targets personalized advertisements to users. 

This trend is alarming, as our clothing consumption directly contributes to the climate crisis. According to the Center for Biological Diversity, the fast fashion industry is responsible for 10 percent of global dioxide carbon emissions.

However, we can still reject fast fashion while simultaneously evolving our style. A sustainable and affordable way to accomplish this feat is to buy more secondhand clothing.

“I think more high schoolers should thrift because it allows people to have more individuality in their pieces and express themselves in a way that clothes in a department store aren’t able to do,” senior Stephanie Dinh said.

Thrifting does not necessarily have to be an ordeal, requiring one to search through hundreds of clothing racks just to find one gem. More upscale vintage stores with curated sections are 2nd STREET, Crossroads, and Buffalo Exchange. Though less affordable than a Goodwill, these stores allow one to shop sustainably with a selection of fashion-forward, trendy clothes. Additionally, there are always online options to explore, including Depop and Poshmark. With all these sustainable options at one’s disposal, wardrobes can instantly be transformed without relying on microtrends.

If you want to transform your wardrobe with the company of your friends, Los Angeles has many flea markets to explore. Melrose Trading Post, held at Fairfax High School, is an iconic, cultural destination that sees thousands of shoppers every Sunday. Another favorite among thrifters is the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena, which occurs every second Sunday of the month and features 2,500 vendors. The artisans and independent sellers who attend these markets have a profound impact on the Los Angeles community. They serve as a reflection of the charm of small businesses and your support is essential.

Experimenting with fashion is an effective way for one to express their individuality and unique aesthetic. Though it is easy to succumb to trends seen on social media, it is important to recognize that we all have the capability of rising above conformity. Thrifting is not only a fun activity, but a reflection of humanity’s ability to recognize value in used items and repurpose them in an innovative way. After all, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.