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In a clear sign of thrift going mainstream, the federal government is now counting secondhand clothes in the Consumer Price Index.

In fact, so many Americans are into used stuff that the Bureau of Labor Statistics is researching whether to include other secondhand goods in the closely watched inflation benchmark. (Historically the only exception was used cars and trucks.)

“The secondhand clothing market has become a booming industry driven by consumers’ economic and sustainability concerns,” Sarah A. Van Giezen, an economist at the BLS, wrote in a recent online article about the change. “Americans also buy books and media, electronics, and furniture secondhand.”

In other words, secondhand shopping has become the first choice for more Americans.

While thrifting is by no means new, buying used goods is turning into an important way for people to combat post-pandemic inflation. In the past few months, clothing prices have risen faster than the overall inflation rate, compounding the strain of higher gas and grocery prices.

Resale is now “a substantial part” of the clothing market and it’s growing faster than the broader market, said Michael Gunther, a senior vice president at Consumer Edge, a consumer spending analytics firm.

Much like private-label and discount brands of groceries and household supplies, more shoppers are now considering the resale clothing market an essential rather than optional step, according to GlobalData figures cited by the online reseller ThredUp. A GlobalData survey earlier this year showed 58% of Gen Z and 55% of Millennial consumers now check for secondhand options before buying new versions.

Sustainability is another part of the appeal, especially among younger generations eager to keep clothes in circulation longer — and out of landfills. The average citizen throws away 70 pounds of clothing and other textiles each year, according to the Council for Textile Recycling.

So what?

Thrifting is no longer a niche subculture (or temporary budget hack.) It has become a structural part of how the modern economy functions and how we define value.

To take the most advantage, consider these strategies:

•   Leverage online marketplaces like Poshmark or eBay: Unlike physical thrift stores that require digging through racks, digital platforms offer massive, searchable scale — and in many cases, deep discounts on luxury or high-end goods. Not only can you filter millions of listings by specific brand, size, and condition, but these platforms double as a way to turn your own gently used clothes into cash or store credit. It’s a financial loop consumers are increasingly using to offset everyday living costs.

•   Check for resale programs operated by the retailers themselves: Retailers including Eileen Fisher, Patagonia, and Lululemon have launched their own resale platforms to give their gently used clothes a longer life.

•   Map out your local thrift circuit: Many secondhand stores develop a unique inventory specialty based on the surrounding neighborhood. Some locations might favor formal wear or children’s clothes, for instance. To maximize cost savings, check for recurring promotional events or designated discount days for students, teachers, or veterans.

•   Pivot to discount and off-price chains for wardrobe basics: When you’re not picky and just need staples like athletic wear or socks and underwear, thrifting may not make sense. For these standard items, you’re probably better off going to discount retailers like Walmart and Amazon, or off-price giants like Burlington and TJ Maxx.

•   Tap local gifting networks for no-cost options: What’s the best price? Free! Local online groups like Buy Nothing, Freecycle and Nextdoor Free Finds are built on bypassing any transfer of money.

Related Reading

How to Buy Quality Clothes Without Spending a Fortune (SoFi)

Iran Tensions Disrupt Fashion Retail Supply Chains (GlobalData via Yahoo Finance)

Personal Stylists Share What You Should Never Buy Secondhand (Good Housekeeping)

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