For the past couple of months, the media has communicated the need to purchase holiday gifts early. Due to supply chain issues, covid-related shutdowns, etc, the message is basically āorder early to ensure your products arrive in timeā. But a piece of the story the press is overlooking is to think beyond the traditional supply chain by rethinking your own personal shopping habits.
In an earlier newsletter we discussed rethinking online shopping habits to lower your environmental impact. But what if before buying something new, you considered buying vintage first (when possible)? According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe the average consumer is purchasing 60% more items of clothing, but keeping them for half as long. On average, people throw away 70 pounds of shoes and clothing a year instead of donating them.
Buying vintage or used simplifies your life, saves money, and saves emissions. People get rid of items for all sorts of reasons other than because they are no longer in good shape, so consider giving items a second life before buying new. Luckily secondhand shopping issuper trendy these days, and consignment stores are popping up all over the place in person and online. Some popular online consignment shops for clothes include Poshmark, ThredUp, and The RealReal.
There are also consignment stores that sell home furnishings that have barely been used. In the Los Angeles area there is The Home Consignment Center which carries all sorts of unique treasures and furnishings. Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles has a long history as a popular spot for trendy thrift and vintage stores.
In addition, when you decide to get rid of something that is in good condition, consider consigning it or donating to a local charity that accepts these items rather than throwing it in the trash. After all, āone man's trash is another man's treasureā helps both the donor and the buyer...as well as the planet.
One more concept to keep in mind while holiday shopping is to simply buy less stuff. Maybe this year is the year to simplify your holidays and rethink what is truly needed. Have a discussion with your family and pick a charity to support with some of the money you would regularly spend on gifts.
As you begin this holiday season, we encourage you to consider ways to be merry and festive while also creating some good in the world!
Ready to take action?
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