The mall used to be the go-to spot for teens looking to shop, hang out and grab a snack. In recent years, thrift stores have taken over as the new destination for fashion.
Students say thrifting offers more than just low prices; it’s a chance to find unique clothing while also being eco-friendly. The mix of affordability and originality has made thrift shops popular among Gen Z.
Many students say the best part of thrifting is the variety. Unlike the mall, where stores carry the same styles in bulk, thrift racks are unpredictable. One day you might find a vintage hoodie from the ’90s, and the next, a dress that looks straight off Pinterest. That surprise factor keeps teens coming back since every trip feels different.
“I like thrifting because it feels like a treasure hunt,” said junior Jackline Torres. “At the mall, everyone ends up buying the same stuff, but when I thrift, I can get clothes that are totally different from what everyone else is wearing.”
This attitude reflects a broader trend. Social media has also played a big role, with platforms like TikTok showcasing thrift hauls and outfit ideas that inspire students to try secondhand fashion themselves.
What used to be seen as “old” or “uncool” is now a point of pride.
“Posting thrift finds online is fun because people are shocked when I tell them it only cost like five dollars,” Jackline said. “It shows you don’t need to spend a lot of money to look good.”
Beyond affordability, students are also thinking about sustainability. With growing awareness about the negative impact of fast fashion, many teens see thrifting as a way to make a small difference for the environment while still keeping up with style trends.
“Fast fashion just makes me feel wasteful,” Jackline said. “When I shop secondhand, I feel like I’m recycling and giving clothes a new life instead of supporting brands that don’t care about the planet.”
As malls continue to lose their appeal, thrift stores are gaining popularity as places where students can shop, express themselves and even help the environment. For today’s high schoolers, thrifting isn’t just about saving money, it’s about creating an identity and making choices that matter.
