The business of fashion is not always (ok, rarely) environmentally friendly. Fast fashion is the second most polluting industry (after oil) with 2.1 billion tonnes of carbon emissions each year (4 percent of the world's total). Some 87 percent of the materials used to make clothing end up in landfills. That's one truckload every second. The fashion industry accounts for 20 percent of global wastewater and 35 percent of microplastics in the oceans.
And, for these reasons, we're out. Shopping at resale and consignment stores can ease the planet's burden. Yes, it takes patience to comb through the racks, but these shops make it fun and easy. And, you'll feel better about shopping for your fashion finds!
Whether you’re cutting back on clutter to shrink your carbon footprint or just love a great thrifted find, these shops are worth a visit this summer for all your resale, thrift, and consignment needs.
Labels Resale Boutique is luxuriously located in Buckhead, and it gives exactly what it sounds, luxury on a budget, whether that’s financial or eco-conscious. From Chanel to Free People to high end bags to Louboutin shoes, their inventory is sustainable, stylish and reasonably-priced, wrapped in one. How does consignment with them work? Simply take your clean and folded clothes to the appropriate location and wait 30 – 60 minutes for them to process your drop-off. Unaccepted pieces are returned, and more details are available on their website.
3235 Paces Ferry Place, Atlanta
Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift Store is a treasure trove at the edge of Brookhaven. Proceeds from items sold are used to support street outreach, a youth center and transitional housing for homeless youth from all walks of life. In the large well-organized warehouse, you'll find clothing, housewares, seasonal decor and fitness gear. Making a donation is easy. Pull up and drop off your bags of clean clothes or to schedule a furniture donation pickup please send photos of your intended donation to storedonationpickup@lnfy.org.
2585 Chantilly Dr NE, Atlanta
The fashion industry accounts for 20 percent of global wastewater and 35 percent of microplastics in the oceans