Thrift shopping is regaining popularity among hipsters on the search for a one off piece or those taking a stand against the environmental impact of fast fashion. These unassuming second-hand stores can be treasure-troves for collectors and creative shoppers alike. For low-income kids, they can also be an outlet for creative expression and fashion freedom in a world where brand names all too often take center stage.
Jade Wilson turned to thrift shopping to discover her sense of style after years of being bullied because she could not afford expensive name brand clothing. For her, thrift shopping opened up a world where she could explore and afford to express herself the way she always wanted to.
To bring this creative outlet to others, Wilson connected with five kids in Durham, North Carolina via social media and gave them each $20 to explore the joys of thrifting. Throughout the process, she interviewed them about what they thought to be their best qualities and how they wanted to express those. When asked what she wants people to know about her and her style, Alazia, age 14, said, “I want people to know that I’m bold and confident. I want to be out there. And I’m not afraid of anything.”
