Adventures In Thrifting
With discourse surrounding fast fashion now taking center stage in the fashion world, some fashionistas are now turning to self-expression through secondhand garments - a practice one might argue is a win-win situation in a consumerist world that is also heavy on nostalgia. However, much like other facets of the fashion industry, the internet had to leave its imprint on the very practice of thrifting as well.
​
On the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York, the Ludlow Flea Market supports vendors who are getting started on their journeys as thrift and consignment sellers that cater to multiple different tastes and aesthetics, many of whom have their own storefronts on Depop, an online consignment marketplace.
I captured a visit I made to the Ludlow Flea Market with my camera, then, I spoke to Depop seller Verona Victoria separately to find out more about her storefront and the world of Depop selling and thrifting from her.
​
Background photo by Dalia Abdelwahab.
01
Project Name
Sam, the owner and curator of Suburbia Circus, a New England-based thrift and consignment store, says she is inclined to believe that her inventory is moreso on the themed and curated side.
"I specialize in vintage designer garments," she explains, "along with accessories and handbags".
Photo by Dalia Abdelwahab
02
Project Name
Like Sam's store, Suburbia Circus, Natalie's store, Pagan Babydolls, is also curated, although it is more heavily focused on casual wear from the late 1990's and early 2000's, along with pieces from other eras like the 1960's and beyond - focusing on the Y2K aesthetic.
"And I like to organize my merchandise at the events by color, so it's easier to sort through and pick out what you want," she explains.
Photo by Dalia Abdelwahab
03
Project Name
"I did not dress today with a certain aesthetic in mind," Natalie admits, "but I guess you could call this 'Victorian Academia'."
Portrait by Dalia Abdelwahab
04
Project Name
What is selling on Depop like? Is it true that sellers hoard items so they could sell them at an unreasonable markup?
Depop seller Verona Victoria answers these questions and more, and provides her insight on overconsumption and fast fashion.
Video by Dalia Abdelwahab
Background music samples "Always me" by Haydn Quartet -- Vocal Group, Jones, Ada -- Vocalist -- Soprano Vocal, Harris, Chas. K. -- Lyricist, and Harris, Chas. K. -- Composer. Retrieved from Library of Congress, National Jukebox.