Fashion has always been a glamorous and highly competitive industry, but it has not been immune to scandals. From sexual harassment allegations to cultural appropriation controversies, the world of fashion has seen its fair share of controversies over the years. In this blog post, we will look at some of the biggest scandals in fashion history.
John Galliano’s Anti-Semitic Rant
In 2011, John Galliano, the then creative director of Christian Dior, was caught on camera making anti-Semitic remarks in a Paris café. The video went viral, and Galliano was subsequently fired from Dior. He was also stripped of his own eponymous label, and his reputation was irreparably damaged. Galliano later apologized for his remarks and sought treatment for alcohol addiction.
Kate Moss’s Cocaine Scandal
In 2005, Kate Moss, one of the world’s most famous models, was caught on camera snorting cocaine. The pictures were published in a British newspaper, and Moss lost many of her lucrative modeling contracts as a result. However, she managed to make a comeback after entering rehab and has since become a fashion icon.
Victoria’s Secret’s Lack of Diversity
Victoria’s Secret, the world’s most famous lingerie brand, has long been criticized for its lack of diversity. The brand’s annual fashion show was canceled in 2019 after years of controversy surrounding the lack of inclusivity on the runway. The company has also been accused of promoting an unrealistic and unhealthy beauty ideal, leading to criticism of the brand’s marketing practices.
The Rana Plaza Factory Collapse
In 2013, the Rana Plaza factory in Bangladesh collapsed, killing over 1,100 people and injuring thousands more. The factory produced clothing for many well-known brands, including Primark and Mango. The tragedy brought attention to the issue of workers’ rights and safety in the fashion industry and led to calls for better regulation and oversight of the industry.
Burberry’s Burned Stock Scandal
In 2018, Burberry, the British luxury fashion brand, came under fire when it was revealed that the company had burned over £28 million worth of unsold stock. The company claimed that the stock had been destroyed to prevent it from being sold on the black market, but the move was widely criticized as wasteful and environmentally damaging.
Dolce & Gabbana’s Racism Scandal
In 2018, Dolce & Gabbana, the Italian fashion brand, faced backlash over a controversial advertising campaign. The campaign featured a Chinese model struggling to eat Italian food with chopsticks, and the brand’s co-founder, Stefano Gabbana, was accused of making racist remarks on social media. The incident led to the cancellation of a major fashion show in China and a significant drop in sales for the brand.
H&M’s “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle” Ad
In 2018, H&M, the Swedish fast-fashion giant, faced criticism over an ad featuring a black child wearing a hoodie with the slogan “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle.” The ad was widely seen as racist and insensitive, and the company was accused of perpetuating negative stereotypes. The incident led to protests and calls for boycotts of the brand.
Calvin Klein’s Underage Models
In 1995, Calvin Klein faced criticism over an advertising campaign featuring young models in provocative poses. Some of the models were under the age of 18, leading to accusations of sexual exploitation. The controversy led to a wider debate about the sexualization of young girls in the fashion industry and prompted calls for better protection for underage models.
The fashion industry has been riddled with sketchy behavior and scandals. I can honestly say that these examples are only the tip of the iceberg. Stay tuned for more as we dive deeper and deeper into history ❤
The 1990s was a decade marked by fashion trends that were inspired by a wide range of cultural and societal factors. From the emergence of grunge music and alternative culture to the growth of hip-hop and streetwear, the 90s were a time of experimentation and self-expression in fashion. In this blog post, we will explore some of the key fashion trends of the 90s and the influences that shaped them.
Grunge
One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 90s was grunge, a subculture that emerged from the music scene in Seattle in the late 80s and early 90s. Grunge was characterized by a laid-back, rebellious aesthetic that included oversized flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and combat boots. The look was inspired by the DIY ethos of the punk movement and reflected the anti-establishment attitudes of the time.
The grunge look was also influenced by the music that gave it its name. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden all had a distinct sound and style that was heavily associated with the grunge movement. Their music was raw and unpolished, with lyrics that often expressed feelings of disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the world.
Hip-Hop and Streetwear
Another major influence on 90s fashion was hip-hop culture, which had been growing in popularity since the late 70s. Hip-hop fashion was characterized by baggy clothing, athletic wear, and sneakers, as well as bold colors and graphic prints. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Fila became synonymous with the hip-hop look, and their products were often worn with oversized t-shirts and tracksuits.
Streetwear also emerged as a distinct fashion trend in the 90s, with brands like Stussy and Supreme leading the way. Streetwear was characterized by a mix of athletic wear, skate culture, and hip-hop style, and was often associated with urban youth culture. The look was heavily influenced by graffiti and street art, and included bold graphics and bright colors.
Minimalism
While grunge and hip-hop fashion were both characterized by an eclectic, bold aesthetic, the 90s also saw the emergence of minimalism as a fashion trend. Minimalism was a reaction to the excess and flamboyance of the 80s, and was characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and simple silhouettes.
Designers like Calvin Klein, Jil Sander, and Helmut Lang all embraced minimalism in their collections, creating clothing that was elegant and understated. The minimalist trend also extended to accessories, with simple, geometric jewelry and small handbags becoming popular among fashion-forward women.
Globalization
One of the less-discussed influences on 90s fashion was the growing trend of globalization. As the world became more connected through advances in technology and communication, fashion began to reflect this global perspective. This was seen in the rise of ethnic-inspired fashion, as designers looked to traditional dress from around the world for inspiration.
The trend also saw the emergence of new materials and techniques in fashion. As designers began to source fabrics and manufacturing techniques from around the world, new textures and finishes emerged in clothing. This global approach to fashion was seen in the collections of designers like Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, who were known for their avant-garde creations and bold use of materials.
All in all, the 1990s was a decade marked by a diverse range of fashion trends, each influenced by a different set of cultural and societal factors. From grunge to hip-hop to minimalism, the 90s saw a wide range of styles emerge and evolve. While some of these trends may have faded away over time, many of the key elements of 90s fashion continue to influence designers and fashion-lovers today.
The 1980s was a decade of bold and dynamic fashion, characterized by a distinct aesthetic that is instantly recognizable even today. From the rise of punk and new wave to the emergence of MTV and music videos, the 1980s was a time of cultural and social change that was reflected in its fashion trends. In this blog post, we will explore the key fashion trends of the 1980s and what influenced them.
One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1980s was power dressing, which emerged as a result of the growing number of women entering the workforce in positions of power. Power dressing was characterized by structured, tailored silhouettes, shoulder pads, and bold colors, often featuring strong and assertive accents such as oversized bows, statement jewelry, and bold prints. This trend was heavily influenced by the feminist movement, as women sought to assert their presence and authority in a male-dominated workplace.
Another significant trend of the 1980s was the rise of punk and new wave fashion. Inspired by the music scene, this trend was characterized by leather jackets, studded belts, ripped jeans, and chunky boots. This anti-establishment aesthetic was a reaction to the mainstream fashion of the time and was heavily influenced by the punk rock movement of the 1970s. Bands such as The Sex Pistols and The Clash were major influences on punk fashion, which became a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity.
The 1980s also saw the emergence of hip hop fashion, which was characterized by bold, oversized clothing, including baggy pants, graphic t-shirts, and tracksuits. This trend was heavily influenced by the hip hop music scene, which originated in the Bronx in the 1970s. Hip hop fashion was a reflection of the culture of the streets, and it was often associated with the emerging hip hop subculture, which was defined by its emphasis on self-expression and individuality.
In addition to these trends, the 1980s was also characterized by a range of other fashion styles, including preppy fashion, which was characterized by clean lines, tailored clothing, and bright colors. This trend was influenced by the popularity of Ivy League fashion and was often associated with the upper classes. Another trend was the emergence of the “yuppie” culture, which was characterized by designer labels, power suits, and a focus on materialism and consumerism. This trend was heavily influenced by the economic prosperity of the decade and the rise of the business class.
So what influenced these trends? One of the key influences on 1980s fashion was the emergence of MTV and music videos. Music videos became an important medium for fashion designers and stylists to showcase their designs, and they helped to popularize many of the key trends of the decade. Bands such as Duran Duran, Madonna, and Michael Jackson were major influences on fashion, and their music videos became iconic examples of 1980s style.
Another key influence on 1980s fashion was the growing influence of celebrity culture. The rise of tabloid journalism and the emergence of paparazzi photography helped to make celebrities more accessible and influential than ever before. Celebrities such as Princess Diana, Madonna, and Michael Jackson became style icons, and their fashion choices helped to shape the trends of the decade.
Finally, the social and cultural changes of the 1980s played a significant role in shaping fashion trends. The rise of feminism, the emergence of the hip hop subculture, and the growing influence of youth culture all had a profound impact on fashion. The 1980s was a decade of change and experimentation, and fashion was no exception.
What fashion trends from the 1980s stick out the most in your mind? Are we going to see another resurgence of 80s styles sometime in the near future? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!
The 1970s were a decade of significant change in fashion. The fashion trends of the 1970s were influenced by various cultural, political, and social factors that made the styles of the era unique and iconic. The 70s saw the rise of the hippie and disco culture, which had a significant influence on the styles seen from day to day worn by both adults and younger teens. I have done some research and compiled a list of some of the top trends of 70s style and where the influence arose.
Hippie Culture and Fashion
The hippie movement of the 1960s continued into the early 1970s. The hippie style was characterized by free-flowing garments, tie-dye prints, and a bohemian vibe. The styles were made up of maxi dresses, peasant blouses, flared jeans, and fringed vests. The colors were often earthy and muted, with a lot of browns, greens, and oranges.
Disco Culture and Fashion
The 1970s also saw the emergence of disco culture, which influenced fashion trends in a different way. Disco culture was all about dancing, and the clothes reflected that. The style was characterized by shiny fabrics, metallics, and lots of glitter. The disco style was made up of jumpsuits, bell-bottom pants, and wrap dresses. The colors were often bright and bold, with a lot of blues, pinks, and purples.
Influence of Pop Culture
The decade saw the rise of iconic celebrities such as Farrah Fawcett, Cher, and John Travolta, who all had their signature looks that were emulated by many. Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hairstyle and bell-bottom jeans became a fashion trend, while Cher’s daring and revealing outfits inspired many fashion designers.
Influence of Politics
The political climate of the 1970s also had an influence on fashion trends. The feminist movement was gaining momentum, and women’s fashion was becoming more androgynous. The power suit emerged as a symbol of women’s liberation, and shoulder pads became a fashion trend. The anti-war movement also influenced fashion trends, with many people opting for military-inspired clothing such as fatigue jackets and cargo pants.
Influence of Technology
The 1970s also saw the emergence of new fabrics and materials. Synthetic materials such as polyester became popular, and clothing was often made with bright, bold prints. The use of technology in fashion also led to the creation of stretchy fabrics such as spandex, which were used in disco clothing. Materials otherwise unseen in popular culture.
In Conclusion
As you can see, the fashion trends of the 1970s were influenced by various cultural, political, and social factors that made the styles of the era unique and iconic! The hippie and disco cultures, pop culture, politics, and rise in synthetic technology all contributed in various ways to hit the mainstream. The fashion trends of the 1970s continue to inspire fashion designers and are still popular today.
Tell us about your favorite fashion trends from the 70s…or maybe some that should remain history 🙂
In the past century, the world has undergone tremendous changes, and one of the most notable transformations has been in the area of clothing recycling. Recycling clothes, which once was considered an unimportant and irrelevant matter, has now become a significant issue due to the increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability and environmental protection.
In the early 1900s, clothing recycling was not a widely practiced activity. The average person purchased clothes that were built to last, and any old clothes were either passed down to younger family members or repurposed into rags or cleaning materials. However, the invention of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon in the 1930s and 1940s made clothes cheaper to produce, and their easy disposability led to an increase in waste.
The 1960s saw the beginning of the modern environmental movement, and with it, increased awareness of the need to reduce waste and preserve resources. This led to a resurgence in the idea of recycling, and organizations like Goodwill and the Salvation Army began to expand their clothing donation programs. In the 1970s, the first “recycling” stores were opened in the United States, where people could donate their old clothing and purchase second-hand clothes.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the textile recycling industry began to grow, and the first textile recycling machines were developed. These machines could sort through large quantities of used clothing, separating them into different categories based on material and quality. The clothes were then shredded, and the fibers were used to create new textiles, insulation, and even carpets.
In the early 2000s, the rise of online marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist made it easier for people to sell their old clothing online, rather than throwing them away. The emergence of social media platforms like Instagram also played a role in promoting sustainable fashion, with influencers sharing tips on how to repurpose old clothes and encouraging people to buy second-hand clothing.
Today, clothing recycling has become a global industry. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry produces over 92 million tons of waste every year, with less than 1% of it being recycled. However, there are now many initiatives and organizations working to improve this. Major clothing retailers such as H&M, Zara, and Levi’s have launched recycling programs where customers can bring in their old clothes and receive a discount on new purchases. Many cities and towns also have textile recycling programs, where people can bring their used clothing to be sorted and recycled.
In addition to recycling, there has also been a significant rise in upcycling, where old clothes are repurposed into new and fashionable items. Upcycling can range from simply adding embellishments or patches to a piece of clothing to completely transforming it into something entirely new. This has become a popular trend among DIY enthusiasts and sustainable fashion advocates, with many small businesses and independent designers specializing in upcycled clothing.
We, here at Diversity Consignment, pride ourselves in offering a unique textile recycling experience. One in which clothing passes directly from a consignors closet to a new and happy home. I believe that consignment has the potential to be the most sustainable way of recycling within the textile industry, applying a zero sum waste approach.
We also offer a platform for up cycling artists and creators to showcase some of their creations while making a profit. Come by and check out some of the unique things we have for sale!
Thrifting, the practice of purchasing second-hand items, has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s not just about saving money, though. There are many benefits to thrifting that go beyond just the financial. Here are some reasons why you should consider thrifting for your next shopping spree.
1. Sustainability
The fashion industry is notorious for its impact on the environment. From the use of water and chemicals to the carbon emissions of transportation, the production of new clothes is a significant contributor to pollution. Additionally, when clothes are discarded, they often end up in landfills, where they can take years to decompose.
Thrifting is a sustainable option because it extends the life of clothing that would otherwise be thrown away. By purchasing second-hand items, you’re reducing the demand for new clothes and helping to keep usable items out of landfills. Thrifting is an eco-friendly choice that helps to reduce your carbon footprint.
2. Uniqueness
When you shop at mainstream retailers, you’re likely to find the same items as everyone else. Thrifting, on the other hand, offers a unique shopping experience. Each thrift store has its own selection of items, and you never know what you’ll find. You may discover vintage pieces that are no longer available in stores or one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see anyone else wearing. Thrifting allows you to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd.
3. Affordability
One of the most obvious benefits of thrifting is the cost savings. Second-hand items are typically much cheaper than new ones, allowing you to stretch your budget further. You can find high-quality items for a fraction of their original price, which means you can get more for your money. Thrifting is an excellent way to find bargains and get the most out of your shopping budget.
4. Higher Quality
Many items you find while thrifting are of higher quality than what you might find in mainstream retailers. This is because they were likely made to last, rather than being produced quickly and cheaply. You can find items made from higher quality materials, such as wool or silk, that are more durable and will last longer than their cheaper counterparts. Thrifting allows you to get high-quality items for a fraction of the price.
5. Supporting Local Communities
When you shop at thrift stores, you’re supporting local businesses and communities. Many thrift stores are run by non-profit organizations or small business owners. By shopping at these stores, you’re helping to support local economies and contribute to the growth of small businesses. Additionally, some thrift stores donate a portion of their profits to local charities, so your purchase can make a positive impact beyond just your wardrobe.
6. Nostalgia
Thrifting can be a nostalgic experience. You may come across items that remind you of your childhood or a certain time period. This can be a fun way to reminisce and relive memories. Additionally, you may discover items that have a unique history, such as vintage band tees or concert posters. Thrifting allows you to connect with the past and add a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe.
7. Experimentation
Thrifting is an excellent way to experiment with different styles and trends. Because the items are affordable, you can try out new looks without investing a lot of money. You can also mix and match items from different eras and styles to create a unique look. Thrifting allows you to be creative with your wardrobe and try out new styles without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, thrifting has many benefits beyond just the financial savings. It’s a sustainable option that helps to reduce your carbon footprint. It allows you to express your individuality and find unique items that you won’t see anyone else wearing. Thrifting is an affordable way to get high-quality items that are made to last
I guess I’m in a spicy mood today to do a little revealing dive into the relationship that Savers has with charity. I will be un-partial in this article to whether or not I think Savers’ operation is good or bad and provide facts that are readily available to the public through various credible websites.
What we will cover includes if Savers is in fact a charity thrift chain, some relationships that they have been a part of and a general outlook on this type of business model.
Is Savers / Value Village a Charity Store?
The simple answer to this question is no. Savers is not a charity thrift store. In fact, they explain this in detail several times on their website. “We’ve chosen to keep our business model this way—to buy our supply from local nonprofits.” We pay our nonprofit partners for your stuff, helping them fund programs in your community.” “Shopping in our stores does not support any nonprofit.”
It sounds a little tricky, if Savers is a for-profit “charity” thrift store, what type of business model is this actually?
To be honest with you, the type of business model is actually genius from a capitalistic standpoint. Savers has a relationship with a charity organization within their stores and essentially pays the charity by-the-pound for your donations. Things they want and think they can sell; they pay a certain $ per pound (this information is unavailable to the public) and things that they don’t want and do not think fit their store standards they pay a less amount per pound and then “recycle.” Like I said, this amount is undisclosed to the public but certain partners have gone on record saying that Savers will pay $40,000 and then flip that donation for $1 million.
The recycling is where things can get a little tricky. If they take after the model of the textile recycling centers, what that usually means is that they would ship the unwanted clothing overseas to a buyer that will pay them more per pound than they purchased it for. I’m not saying that is exactly what they do at the Savers recycling warehouses, but it would be hard to convince me that they send clothing over-seas on their own dime.
Savers and Charity Relationships
Several of the nearly 100 charity organizations that have been associated with the Savers organization have severed ties. According to an NBC article, 3 of 6 have cited unfavorable terms and conditions. Director of the Boston area Big Brother Big Sister Foundation was cited saying the following: “If you’re making a million, and we’re making $40,000, how is that helping charities?” “It may be legal, but it’s not right.”
Other charities associated with the Savers organization have openly come out in the defense of the for-profit conglomerate stating that public funding for charities has dried-up and if it weren’t for Savers’ purchasing contributions, they may not make it.
It’s fair to say that the business model that Savers has developed has certainly benefited charities as well as itself. Although Savers does not report its financial performance to the public, their yearly revenue has estimated to reach $1.2 billion according to Moody’s Investor’s Service.
Outlook
As a business owner myself, I find this business model to be fascinating. The problem I could see would be if the general public is deceived into thinking that their donations go directly to benefiting the charity associated with the business, when actually it does not. In the case of Savers and Value Village, the charity does receive compensation by-the-pound when Savers pays for the clothing. They then put the clothing into their stores and price them to make a profit. What is unwanted goes into their recycling center.
I know in recent times; Savers has created an announcement that plays over the telecom during business hours reinforcing the fact that they are a for-profit company. The next time you are in Savers, try to pay attention to the telecom to hear the message.
Consignment shops can be great sustainable places to re-sell or purchase slightly used or even new clothing. In many regards, consignment shops are some of the most sustainable forms of recycling due to the low impact on waste they tend to produce. The clothing goes in a simple cycle, from consignor, to consignee, to consumer.
Of course, what to expect at a typical consignment shop will vary greatly depending on the styles and types of consignment shops in question. They can range from beautiful boutique style clothing stores, hype beast shops, and even true vintage stores. I will say, however, that the vast majority of consignment shops I have seen tend to be more focused on the up-scale designer centric styles. This may be due to the fact that within these boutique types of consignment shops, one may find some great discounts on otherwise unaffordable brands.
In this article we are going to cover some of the tried-and-true basics of what one would typically find inside of a consignment shop regardless of the specific type of products they offer.
What Makes a Consignment Shop Different than a Charity Thrift Store?
I want to start by doing a little bit of classification on what a consignment shop is and what differentiates it from a typical charity thrift shop.
A consignment shop is defined as “a store that sells secondhand items (typically clothing and accessories) on behalf of the original owner, who receives a percentage of the selling price.” This is different than a charity thrift store in a couple of notable ways:
A consignment shop typically has a carefully curated selection of products.
You can make money by dropping off your personal items to a consignment shop.
Consignment shops are typically for-profit businesses, however; in some instances, that is not always true.
Organization (layout)
The organization within a consignment shop is typically uncluttered and well-structured. This holds true in most shops that I have personally visited. Why are they usually so well organized? It is much easier to keep track of consigned goods inside a more well-organized setting. Remember, many consignment shops can have thousands of different products belonging to hundreds or thousands of different clients at any given time.
If a consignment shop is cluttered and disorganized, it can be a warning sign to prospective consignors. Unless the aesthetic is “organized clutter” (I have definitely seen some consignment shops master this visual) the prospective seller may be left wondering “How are they going to keep track of my stuff?” Consignment stores rely heavily on the community to supply the store with merchandise, so it is important that they gain the trust of a potential client.
Boutique style consignment shops will have a wide array of department store style fixings. Glass showcases, neat tables, and minimalist decor. While vintage consignment shops may have a good display of organized clutter. A shop should fit the vibe they’re trying to portray. I wouldn’t expect a lot of glitter and glam inside of a vintage store, for instance. On the other hand, I would still expect it to be more well organized than a run-of-the-mill charity thrift store.
The Products
Like I mentioned earlier, consignment shops will have a well-curated selection of inventory. The inventory will likely match the clientele that the store is delivering to. For example, a consignment shop in Nantucket will likely have a lot of pastel colored clothing or nautical themed home decor. A hype beast consignment shop located in the inner-city will likely have sneakers, casual clothing, and streetwear designer brands.
The products you should find in a consignment shop should fill the void between “new” and “heavily used.” Most stores will not accept items that show major, obvious signs of wear. This is important to note because you are not likely to find basement prices on the new arrivals section of your neighborhood consignment shop. We will go into pricing expectations a little further down in the article.
Couches at furniture consignment shops should resemble new couches. Dresses at the boutique consignment shop should look as close to new as possible.
You will traditionally (or I should say should not see at all) fast fashion brands or inexpensively manufactured items at a consignment shop, if they are doing their job curating products. Low priced retail merchandise just doesn’t have enough markup value on the resale market and therefore has little to no value to a consignment shop.
You should expect a good selection of desirable merchandise at the consignment store. That desirability, of course, will depend on who the target audience is geared towards at that particular location. Like I said, if you are into goth-core styled clothing, don’t be shocked if the local boutique consignment shop doesn’t carry a decent selection of what you’re interested in.
Pricing
The general rule of thumb when it comes to pricing expectations should be somewhere between retail and bargain basement pricing. Consignment shop inventory as a whole, is typically between 90-95% used. Even clothing or household items that still have the tags and that are un-used should still be priced between 50-80% of retail value. Think about pricing on a department store clearance rack. I have seen some more boutique style shops that stick to near retail value and I have seen others that will go as far as 33% of retail value. The pricing should match the value that they deliver to you, the customer.
Consignment shops are places of discounted merchandise. It is not uncommon to see heavy discounts on sale racks (up to 90% off the original price tag). Usually, inventory is moving at a pretty rapid pace and new inventory is coming in hot. The stores need to make room for new arrivals and will put a good amount of inventory on clearance to make room for new merch. These sales can be great opportunities for customers to get some fantastic deals on excellent quality gems.
Consignment shops should deliver on value to prospective customers. They can justify higher prices than charity thrift stores by delivering on that value. How well the store in question performs on the following bullet points should help to determine the overall value of the pricing:
Customer service
Cleanliness of the store
Selection of the merchandise (curation)
Overall experience
If the store delivers 10/10 on all of these components, expect to pay a little higher in price.
Here at Diversity Consignment, we try to differentiate in a few ways that help us stand out from the typical consignment shop experience.
Traditionally, clothing consignment shops have been cis-gendered and specialize in delivering excellent quality to either the female or male customer market exclusively. Here at Diversity Consignment, we have broken down the barrier of that exclusivity and welcome a non-binary shopping experience for all genders. Honestly, most people won’t really even notice this difference upon entrance because the racks are simply organized by inventory type (sweaters, hoodies, jackets, etc.) and size. This may not be the ideal layout for everyone, and we embrace that.
Another differentiator we offer is the products that we curate. In many regards it would be difficult to classify the inventory under one simple classification. We showcase boutique brands, instruments, vintage styles, vinyl records, and most importantly local artwork and custom creations. Really what we try to offer are things that our prospective customers would want to purchase. We try to communicate as best that we can with our existing customers and analyze the data on what is selling to narrow-down our future selections and curations. Again, our inventory is not likely for everyone, and we understand that.
We offer a calendar of events on our website and have a range of interactive activities for you to do while shopping! Swing by some time to shop or consign with us when you’re in the Boston area!
Conclusion
Consignment shops are fantastic places to stay frugal and in-style regardless of the type of consignment shop and what they offer. I would suggest finding one that aligns with your style and values, if possible. Don’t go in thinking you’re going to pay GoodWill prices; the consignment shops work hard to curate top-quality inventory and oftentimes work extra hard to make the inventory presentable.
The secondhand industry is continuing to grow as people become more aware of the impacts their spending has on the local community and the environmental impacts. Do us all a favor and support your local consignment shop!
Listen people, it’s 2022. Clothing really has no business being gender specific! Taking a look at the newest fashion lines coming out will give you a perfect example of clothing androgyny and the progression we have made in the past couple decades.
In today’s article I’m going to explain why gender neutral clothing is important. I will cover freedom of expression, some of the challenges with gender neutral lines, the stigma, and where I think the future lies.
This is not an article forcing you to wear gender-neutral clothing or to make you, as a woman, dress like a man or vice versa. It is only my opinion based on what I have seen during my time in the clothing industry and an alignment of what our store Diversity Consignment believes in within our core mission.
Freedom of expression
Freedom of expression can be defined as : You have the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of your choice without interference and regardless of frontiers.
I will define freedom of expression within the clothing industry as the following : The ability to express oneself freely, without restraints, and voluntarily, through the clothing you choose to dawn regardless of specific constraints. Side note: I am not a proponent of blatant disregard for the sensitivities of specific cultures or the use of historical garments for appropriation.
Freedom of expression, especially within the confinement of the United States is a beautiful thing that should be embraced. One of the simplest ways to express oneself is through the clothing that one wears. Want to dress in Crayola colors? Go for it! Want to wear a plaid skirt with Dr. Marten boots? I say, you better take a picture and send it to us so we can promote it!
Clothing should not have gender constraints. They take away the very principle of freedom of expression that has been founded.
Challenges with clothing binarity
One of the major difficulties a lot of men, in particular, may find when clothing shopping in a gender neutral environment is sizing constraints. You see a cute skirt that you want to try on, but find out that the sizing is only constrained to XXS-L in “women’s” sizing. As a 6’4″ 240lb guy that can be a real challenge! What are the options out there?
The same can be said for women. The clothing companies do not take into consideration body shapes, differences, and tastes. There should be no reason why a skirt is not manufactured for men’s bodies as well as women’s. In fact, men have historically worn skirts as well as heels!
The simple fact is this — people come in all shapes, sizes, and with different interests. It’s time for retailers to embrace this.
Stigma
Another major challenge within the retail world is the stigma. It is challenging for opposing sexes to find a comfortable space where they can shop in the “other” section. There is a lot of separation between areas; men’s and women’s. When the general population sees a man in the women’s section they tend to do a lot of gawking and staring. That is super uncomfortable for that individual. The same can be said for women in the “men’s” section.
As we progress as a society, I must say, this is becoming less of an issue in specific geographical areas. The fact still remains that the stigma is continuously a huge issue that deserves recognition. Living in a diverse community of NYC will show a big difference in the stigma than an area in rural America. That is unfair for individual freedom of expression.
I want to explain a little bit about how clothing styles and sexuality corelate. They Don’t! Just because a man finds a certain blouse nice, does not mean that man is gay. If they are, great! Just because a woman is wearing a Carhartt top with Timberland boots does not mean that they are gay. It is simply an expression of taste through style. Period. Regardless, it’s honestly none of your business anyway so why should you even care??
The future of clothing androgyny
I, for one, am hopeful for the future of clothing and the elimination of stigma and judgement. I have already witnessed lines of bags and accessories that positively embrace gender neutrality. Many of the lines on the runway for 2022 showcase femme skirts on men as well as wide-leg “dad jeans” on women.
I am hopeful that more gender neutral environments will be opening up that decrease the divide. I really am not trying to be political in this article, as I believe that politics have nothing to do with freedom of expression and the comforts that should come with the concept.
We, at Diversity Consignment openly embrace gender neutrality and focus on creating a comfortable environment where men, women, and non-binary individuals can express themselves freely without judgement. I cannot tell you the amount of times I have seen burly, bearded men (prototypical essences of masculinity) trying on a dress and KILLING IT. I hope that we can continue in a progressive direction where everyone feels comfortable as a society.
You’ve got a closet full of clothing you’re trying to get rid of but you don’t know exactly what qualifies for a consignment shop. This is a common question that we, at Diversity Consignment, get asked, “What types of things do you take?”
In this article, I’m going to try my best to cover what types of clothing to bring to a consignment shop. Many of these principles will apply to a broader range of consignment shops in general.
Condition
Generally speaking, most consignment shops will take a heavy consideration into the condition of the clothing being brought in. Consignment shops like to have an assortment of new or gently worn pieces. Clothing with holes, stains, or odors will almost certainly be denied from a consignment shop.
What does the term gently used mean? That is a good question! I know that this can be a subjective topic but I will clarify. Gently used, in terms of clothing or accessories, would mean that the items in question do not have obvious signs of wear. Some consignment shops prefer things to look new, but typically the level of gently used should be fine and accepted.
For us at Diversity Consignment, we use this general rule to apply to most modern or more common items that we see come through. The exception to the rule for us would be things that are very valuable, vintage, or rare. Of course, vintage items can come with all types of wear from the years of wear and tear that add a patina or extra character to the piece.
If you want to know what constitutes as a vintage item, feel free to check out our previous article titled; What Qualifies as Vintage?
What Kinds of Brands do Consignment Shops Look For?
This particular chapter on brands is truly where things get a little tricky. The general answer to what types of brands consignment shops take is that it depends on the store in question.
Some consignment shops pride themselves on only taking “luxury” items. A quick review of the store’s website should give you an idea of the type of consignment shop in question. Another way to see if the brand fits in with the store’s selection is to go to the shop itself! Take a look around at the racks and get an idea of the type of vibe.
It can be a waste of time and effort to try to get your clothes into a consignment shop that simply doesn’t carry those types of brands. From a consignment shop’s perspective, it can be a bit awkward having that conversation. It’s best to just avoid it in the first place by doing a little research.
Here at Diversity Consignment, the only brands we absolutely exclude are fast-fashion brands. Forever 21, Primark, Shein to name a few. We go more by what the next chapter will cover; style.
What Types of Styles do Consignment Shops Take?
Consignment shops, unlike charity thrift stores, will be looking for more current or selective styles. This also depends on the store in question but it is almost guaranteed that an unbranded, basic tee with no pattern is not going to be accepted at a consignment shop.
The vast majority of consignment shops will be looking for current styles. This can be difficult when it comes to second-hand clothing. If you have some stuff that you were gifted or purchased and you later decided, “It’s really not my style”, then a consignment shop may be the perfect place to bring it.
Here at Diversity Consignment, we tend to do things a little differently. We like to look ahead towards the future; analyzing what is on-trend for the upcoming season and do our best to try to recreate those styles. We focus on vintage and contemporary styles and a lot of times we can recreate future styles based on mixing and matching past styles of a similar nature.
What Types of Things Will Consignment Shops Deny?
Right off the bat, here is a list of things that a consignment shop is guaranteed to deny:
Shoes that show major signs of wear
Clothing with stains
Clothing with holes
Stretched out fabric that compromises the original shape of the garment
Snags/pulls
Clothing with body odor
Discoloration from sun damage or fading
Missing buttons
Faulty zippers
Use this as a guide for your closet when determining what would certainly be denied from a consignment shop.
Conclusion
Consignment shops are amazing sustainable place to sell your clothing. It is always a good feeling when your clothing makes the cut at your local consignment shop! At the same time, it can be pretty discouraging when they aren’t accepted; I understand that.
I would urge that you don’t take these types of denials personally. Most consignment shops understand their demographics and need to curate their stores based on what they think they can sell. Do your research into the exact type of place that you’re thinking about bringing your stuff as they can differ significantly.
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