Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Clothes Thrifting, the practice of purchasing secondhand clothing, has surged in popularity among Generation Z in Indonesia, reflecting broader global trends in sustainable fashion. For many young Indonesians, thrifting offers a more affordable and environmentally conscious alternative to fast fashion, allowing them to express their individuality without contributing to the growing environmental impact of the fashion industry.
Thrifting comes from the word “thrift,” which means the careful management of resources, involves buying used items, often clothes that are still in good quality, at a fraction of their original price. These items are typically sourced from secondhand shops, markets, or online platforms. In Indonesia, thrift markets and online platforms such as Instagram and e-commerce apps have become popular venues for finding these pre-owned treasures.
The trend of thrifting began gaining traction in Indonesia around the mid-2010s, driven by social media and a rising awareness of the environmental harm caused by fast fashion. Social media influencers and fashion bloggers also played a significant role in promoting thrifting, showing how stylish secondhand items could be.
For many young Indonesians, thrifting also presents a way to stand out. Instead of following mass-produced trends, they can pick and choose unique wardrobes from a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. The affordable nature of thrifted items also appeals to Gen Z, many of whom are students or young professionals seeking to manage their finances while still keeping up with fashion trends.
Concerns Over Local Economy
However, while thrifting is praised for its sustainability and affordability, it has also sparked concerns over its negative impact on Indonesia’s local economy, particularly on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the fashion sector. Many of the thrifted clothes available in Indonesia are imported in bulk from other countries, including low-cost secondhand goods from abroad.
This influx of cheap, imported secondhand clothing threatens local businesses, especially small fashion retailers and textile producers who struggle to compete with the lower prices of thrifted goods.
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The secondhand clothing market, particularly when it relies on imported items, has led to a decline in demand for locally produced apparel. Indonesian SMEs that produce traditional or locally made fashion items have been affected as more consumers opt for cheaper imported alternatives.
This challenge is compounded by the fact that many local businesses lack the scale or resources to lower their prices or adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences.
In addition to economic concerns, the import of secondhand clothes raises questions about health and quality standards, as some imported goods may not meet Indonesia’s regulations for safe and hygienic apparel.
As thrifting continues to rise in popularity, it reflects a shift in consumer behavior toward more conscious and sustainable choices. However, it also underscores the need for policies that protect local industries while encouraging sustainable consumption.
The Indonesian government has already expressed concerns over the import of secondhand clothing, with some officials calling for stricter regulations or bans to safeguard domestic industries.
In Indonesia, clothes thrifting is more than just a fashion trend, it’s a complex issue that balances sustainability and affordability with the need to protect the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs. As Generation Z continues to lead this trend, the broader impact on the country’s economy remains a challenges to overcome.
(Raidi/Agung)
