Thrifting began in the nineteenth century due to the rise of the industrial revolution, causing people to give away the excess clothes that they originally purchased. Despite thrifting having many benefits for the environment and people, many called thrifting “unsanitary” and “dirty.” These unjust judgemental claims are rooted in prejudice and racism against minorities. But in the late twentieth century, this mindset began to change; thrifting began to be associated with individuality and freedom. This was due to the rise of certain subgroups – such as hippies in the ‘70s and grunge in the ‘90s. These subgroups valued sustainability, and their fashion was easily accessible at thrift shops. Currently, with the twenty-first century being dominated by social media, people are becoming more knowledgeable about the benefits that thrifting has on sustainability. Now people thrift clothes not just for fun pieces, but also to help the environment and garment workers. 

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