...because of excess and waste. Here are two ways modern fashion contributes to both.

In 2023, the University of Waterloo estimated that more than 1,000,000,000 pounds of clothing are thrown away each year in Canada. A staggering 85% of it ends up in landfill usually in poor foreign countries desperate for the revenue they earn from accepting our garbage. 

Why do so many underdeveloped countries lack fresh drinking water? Because it takes more than 1200 gallons of water to make a single pair of jeans. That's  equivalent to the amount of gas needed to fill 100 cars.

Reusing and recycling our clothing makes a difference and it's starting to grow. In Canada, fashion retail (new clothing) is a $28B industry. The secondhand/resale market is about a quarter of that, and growing. Only a few years ago, that number was half the size.

The concept of a circular economy where buying secondhand clothing is second nature is central to sustainable fashion. Unlike the traditional linear model of "take, make, dispose," a circular economy emphasizes the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of materials. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, transitioning to a circular economy in the fashion industry could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44% by 2030. This shift is essential for mitigating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.

Purchasing second-hand garments reduces the demand for new production, thereby decreasing the overall environmental footprint.

Lastly, good vintage fashion equates to well-made high-quality garments because they've stood the test of time through repeated wearing and washings. Undoubtedly the superior craftsmanship and materials of vintage clothes blows away the fast fashion alternatives. 

We hope you feel good shopping at our store while doing some good for the planet.