National Secondhand Wardrobe Day

History & origins

National Secondhand Wardrobe Day is an informal observance tied to August 25 and promoted in the United States as a celebration of thrifting, resale, and sustainable fashion. Its exact founder is unclear, and no single official origin story is consistently documented, but it appears to have been popularized through national-day calendars and thrift-focused messaging in the 2000s and 2010s. The day reflects the broader American secondhand market, where thrift stores and consignment shops have long helped people find affordable clothing and extend the life of garments.

Why it matters

The day highlights how secondhand shopping can reduce clothing waste, keep wearable items in circulation, and make fashion more affordable. It also supports local thrift stores, resale businesses, and charities that rely on donated clothing and shopper traffic. For many people, it is a practical reminder that style, sustainability, and savings can go together.

How to celebrate

Visit thrift stores and consignment shops. Donate clothes you no longer wear. Try on unique vintage pieces. Share your thrift finds and styling tips. Support local thrift stores that benefit charities.

Facts

• The secondhand clothing market is worth over $35 billion in the US
• Buying secondhand reduces textile waste and carbon emissions
• Thrifting has become trendy among all age groups
• Many designer pieces can be found at thrift stores
• Thrift shopping saves the average shopper $1,000+ annually