TULSA, Okla. — The Environmental Protection Agency says the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothes a year.
But there's a new trend in the fashion world that doesn't seem to be going out of style: repurposing, reselling and rewearing.
It's driven by Gen Zers and millennials, like Sarah Sapola.
"I think a lot of people associate being fashionable and trendy with expensive name brand things and that's just not the case anymore," Sapola said. "70% to 80% of all my clothes are either thrifted second hand things like that."
What's old can always be made new again. That rings true at SoBo Co. in Tulsa.
"Typically, what we will do is just purchase from people," said Lauren Spears, owner of SoBo Co. "So you bring in items. We look through everything. We figure out what we can sell and what we cant. And then we give you a cash offer on the spot."
SoBo Co. carries plenty of throwback designer goods at discounted prices from vintage Louboutin slides to Chanel and Jimmy Choo heels.
"People who are young and creative can afford the clothes they want and can find stuff to express their unique style," Spears said.
Websites have also put a pin in the fast fashion balloon. Rent the Runway, Poshmark, Thredup and even Facebook Marketplace are helping drive the industry.
By 2023, sales of second hand goods will reach $51 billion.
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