Article by Dina Michaels, local curator of vintage treasures, handmade items and upcycled gifts

Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – With most Americans searching for ways to save money and cut their living costs, it’s no wonder that second hand shopping and thrifting have seen an upward trend in recent years.

While it has never been easier to find items for your home and wardrobe with Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, the Offer Up app and many other online avenues…A good old fashioned yard sale or garage sale is still one of the best ways to score a great deal on items for your household.

If the notion of looking through your neighbor’s castoffs doesn’t immediately appeal to you, consider another reason to re-think thrifting: Sustainability.

Sustainability is not just a buzzword. It is an answer to the growing problems created by a throw away culture that favors convenience over conservation and “new” over “new to you.”

According to Earth.org, fast fashion (cheaply made textiles and garments that are quickly manufactured and shipped for profit with little regard to longevity) is responsible for 10% of the Earth’s global carbon emissions. Emissions from textile manufacturing will surge up to 60% by the year 2030. Every time you supplement your wardrobe with a “pre loved” item you picked up at a yard sale, you are helping reduce the demand and production of garments that will be thrown away as quickly as they are purchased. Every piece of clothing you buy from your community wide garage sales means less waste headed to an area landfill.

Another reason for ditching fast fashion and home decor in favor of unique “found” items? The ability to make your home and style a one of a kind reflection of YOU! Thrift often enough and you will have a home and personal style that is unique and reflective of your personality and taste, not what is dictated by the fast fashion machine.

Check out Pinterest for inspiration on how someone else’s vintage tablecloth or old quilt can be upcycled into a fresh new piece! Turn well worn items into “new” totes, dresses, wall art, etc!

My love for all things vintage and thrifted has turned into a side passion project called Blue Pixie Studio! Check out my store on Etsy at BluePixieStudio – Etsy and locally at Hodgepodge Heaven inside White Oaks Mall.

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