Embracing Individualism Through Thrifting
When we shop, we try to express ourselves and our individuality through the things that we buy. This is especially true for clothing and our wardrobes. Are you more of a vintage lover? WE expect to see you in Y2K and 70s fits. If you’re more of a minimalistic lover, we expect to see you in all whites and beiges. In a world that often seems overrun by mass production and uniformity, the concept of individualism has never been more crucial.
Social media platforms have undeniably democratized fashion. What once took seasons to transition from the runways to the streets now happens in a matter of days, leaving little room for individual interpretation. The allure of likes, shares, and comments can push individuals to conform to these trends, erasing the boundaries that once separated personal style from the mainstream.
Moreover, the rise of influencer culture magnifies this phenomenon. Influencers, with their large followings, wield significant power in shaping trends and consumer behavior. As they champion specific styles and products, individuals might feel compelled to emulate these preferences, sacrificing their unique tastes in the process. In the quest for acceptance and validation, individualism can become a casualty.
We believe that recognizing trends are just one facet of the fashion spectrum. Embracing your personal quirks, experimenting with different styles, and redefining trends to suit your own preferences are the building blocks of preserving one's unique fashion identity.
If you are finding it challenging to embrace your own fashion identity in fashion, we suggest trying thrifting. Thrifting has emerged as an avenue for embracing individualism and discovering one-of-a-kind pieces that resonate with your personal style. Each thrift journey promises a treasure hunt, where every garment carries a history, a story, and a distinct character. This aligns perfectly with the notion of individualism, as shoppers have the opportunity to curate a wardrobe that mirrors their personality rather than adhering to predetermined trends, and in a way that is budget-friendly.
Thrifting creates a sense of connection with the past. Vintage pieces evoke nostalgia and offer a connection to different eras, reflecting a rich tapestry of history and culture. Wearing these pieces is like carrying a part of history into the present. Individualism doesn't have to come at the cost of ethical and environmental responsibility.
So, why not start today! In the UAE there are plenty of thrift and vintage shops, with most available online. You can start with www.bazaara.ae and see where your journey takes you!
[These are 4 well-taken pictures that showcase individual style]
The Fast Fashion Conundrum: Why Buying Fast Fashion Could Impact Your Thrifting Resale Value
Today, we're diving deep into the world of fast fashion and its effects on the resale value of your pre-loved pieces. That’s why opting for sustainable fashion is both trendy and financially rewarding.
The Allure of Fast Fashion
Fast fashion has undeniably captured the hearts of many fashion lovers with its quick turnover of trendy and affordable clothing. It's no wonder that these tempting collections often find their way into our closets. But, have you ever considered what happens to these garments once we've moved on to the next big trend?
The Fast Fashion Trap
Unfortunately, the allure of fast fashion comes with a significant downside. Due to their mass-produced nature and low-quality materials, these trendy pieces tend to lose their appeal and structural integrity relatively quickly. As a result, they often find themselves discarded after only a few wears, if any, contributing to the ever-mounting issue of textile waste.
Thrift Store Resale Value Woes
If you've ever tried to resell fast fashion pieces at thrift stores or online marketplaces like Bazaara, you might have experienced the disheartening reality of their almost non-existent resale value. Thrift store shoppers typically have stringent selection criteria, and items that are branded as fast fashion, show signs of wear, or are no longer in vogue are rarely accepted. As a result, those once-beloved fast-fashion gems are often passed over.
Sustainable Fashion to the Rescue
Thankfully, there's a glimmer of hope in this fashion dilemma: sustainable fashion. Choosing quality over quantity is the key to building a timeless and versatile wardrobe. Sustainable fashion brands focus on producing durable, timeless pieces made from eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices.
Benefits of Sustainable Fashion
- Longevity: Sustainable fashion garments are crafted to withstand the test of time. Their higher-quality materials and careful craftsmanship mean they hold up well over the years, making them perfect for multiple owners.
- Classic Styles: Sustainable fashion often revolves around classic designs rather than fleeting trends. This means your wardrobe won't become outdated quickly, and your pieces will remain desirable to thrift stores and second-hand marketplaces.
- Value Retention: Investing in sustainable fashion can be seen as an investment. These pieces tend to retain their value better over time, making them more appealing to savvy thrift store buyers.
- Ethical and Eco-Friendly: Supporting sustainable fashion brands positively impacts the environment and ensures the ethical treatment of garment workers. These brands prioritize eco-friendly materials, reducing resource-intensive processes and pollution. Additionally, they uphold fair labor practices, providing workers with safe working conditions and respectful treatment.
Reselling Sustainable Fashion
When it's time to refresh your wardrobe, don't forget that your sustainable fashion pieces can have a vibrant second life. Reselling them at thrift stores or on Bazaara can be both rewarding for you and the environment. Not only do you free up space for new sustainable additions, but you also encourage the cycle of conscious consumption and reduce fashion's carbon footprint.
So, the next time you're tempted by the allure of fast fashion, think about the consequences for both your wallet and the environment. Embrace sustainable fashion, and not only will you contribute to a greener planet, but you'll also ensure that your wardrobe remains a hot item in thrift stores and second-hand markets. Together, let's lead the charge toward a more stylish, sustainable, and resale-friendly fashion future! Happy shopping!
The Benefits of Thrifting: Why Thrifting is taking over
Everyone loves a great vintage or thrift find. If you’re seeking to save money, reduce waste, and add a touch of uniqueness to your wardrobe, look no further than the enchanting world of thrifting. There are countless benefits of thrift shopping - it can revolutionize your style, budget, and the world we live in.
Thrifting – the art of discovering pre-loved gems and giving them a new life – has captured the hearts of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond its affordability, thrifting offers a host of advantages that extend far beyond mere fashion. There are many perks of thrift shopping, from saving money and embracing sustainability to expressing your personal style and unearthing hidden treasures.
Discover Affordable Delights:
One of the most enchanting aspects of thrifting is the delightful affordability it brings. Whether you are a thrifty shopper by nature or simply love a good bargain, thrift stores offer a treasure trove of affordable items, ranging from clothing and accessories to home decor and furniture. Embracing thrifted goods allows you to stretch your budget further, curate a diverse and stylish wardrobe, and embrace a more conscious and sustainable approach to fashion. With a discerning eye and a touch of creativity, you can find remarkable deals on designer labels, high-quality pieces, and unique accessories that won't break the bank.
Timeless Trends Await:
Thrifting holds a special allure in its ability to uncover hidden gems and timeless treasures that simply cannot be found elsewhere. Whether it's a vintage leather jacket that tells a story, a retro band t-shirt that sparks nostalgia, or a stunning designer handbag from a bygone era, thrift stores offer a rich tapestry of fashion that sets you apart from the mainstream. Each thrifted find becomes a cherished addition to your wardrobe, reflecting your unique personality and serving as a conversation starter wherever you go.
Simple, Sustainable Style:
By engaging in thrifting, you actively contribute to a more sustainable future. Thrift shopping promotes the ethos of reduce, reuse, and recycle, as it reduces the demand for new items and prevents perfectly usable goods from ending up in landfills. Embracing secondhand fashion not only helps conserve precious natural resources but also minimizes pollution and reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional manufacturing and retail practices. Thrifting becomes your statement of style with a conscience.
Express Your Unique Self:
Thrifting is not just about finding fashion treasures; it's a playground for self-expression. Whether you are a vintage aficionado, free-spirited, or a trendsetter who loves to curate unique ensembles, thrift stores provide an abundance of options to showcase your individuality and creativity. Step into a world where fashion knows no bounds, where you can mix and match, experiment fearlessly, and let your personal style shine. Each thrifted piece becomes a reflection of your distinctive personality, making your fashion choices truly one-of-a-kind.
In a world that values both style and sustainability, thrifting stands tall as the epitome of timeless fashion. By embracing thrifted treasures, you not only celebrate your uniqueness but also contribute to a greener planet and a stronger community. So, if you're ready for your thrifting adventure, look no further than Bazaara – the UAE’s online thrift store destination. With our collection of pre-loved treasures and seamless shopping experience, Bazaara makes the world of thrifting easily accessible. Discover fashion with a conscience at Bazaara and redefine your style while leaving a positive impact. Begin your journey today and experience the thrill of sustainable fashion!
The Art of Thrifting: The Advantages of Shopping Secondhand
Thrifting and buying vintage clothing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only does it offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion, but it also provides unique and often high-quality pieces that can’t be found in mainstream stores. There’s a wide variety of benefits, and in this article, we’ll explore a couple of the main ones.
Environmental Benefits
Did you know that thrifting and buying vintage clothing has a positive impact on the environment? The fashion industry is notoriously one of the most polluting industries globally, with the production of clothing contributing to the depletion of natural resources, the emission of greenhouse gases, and water pollution (to name a few!). According to the Environmental Protection Agency, textiles account for nearly 10% of all municipal solid waste in the US, with only about 15% of that being recycled or donated.
By choosing to thrift or buy vintage clothing, you’re helping to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, which can take hundreds of years to decompose. Additionally, you’re not contributing to the demand for new clothing production, which uses valuable resources and creates more pollution. In short, thrifting and buying vintage clothing is an easy and effective way to reduce your carbon footprint.
Unique and High-Quality Pieces
Another benefit of thrifting and buying vintage clothing is the unique and often high-quality pieces that you can find. Vintage clothing is typically well-made, with attention paid to details like fabric quality, stitching, and construction. You’re also more likely to find one-of-a-kind pieces that aren’t available in mainstream stores, allowing you to express your individuality and personal style.
Thrifting also offers the opportunity to find designer and high-end clothing at a fraction of the retail price. You can often find vintage pieces from well-known brands and designers that are no longer in production or were only made in limited quantities, making them even more valuable and unique.
Affordability
One of the biggest draws of thrifting and buying vintage clothing is its affordability. Vintage clothing is often much cheaper than buying new clothing from mainstream stores. You can find great deals on high-quality pieces that would otherwise be out of your budget, allowing you to build a unique and stylish wardrobe without breaking the bank.
In addition to affordability, thrifting also offers the opportunity to find items that are no longer in production or available in mainstream stores. This means that you can get a unique piece that is not only affordable but also rare and special.
Supporting Small Businesses
Many thrift and vintage stores are small businesses that rely on local communities to stay in business. By thrifting at these shops, you’re supporting these businesses, which is particularly important in the current economic climate where many small businesses are struggling to survive.
In conclusion, there are numerous benefits to thrifting and buying vintage clothing. From the environmental impact to the unique and high-quality pieces, affordability, and community engagement, there are plenty of reasons to choose secondhand over new. So the next time you’re in the market for new clothing, consider heading to your local thrift or vintage store instead, or even using BAZAARA – the UAE’s largest community resale fashion platform for buying and selling secondhand fashion.
Not only will you be doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll also be supporting small businesses and your local community while finding unique and stylish pieces to add to your wardrobe.
Bazaara Pledges to Conserve Five Million Gallons of Water by 2022 for World Environment Day
The brand’s users have already enabled the conservation of over 1 million litres of water to date through purchases of secondhand fashion items versus new pieces
Bazaara, the region’s digital platform for thrifting secondhand and vintage clothing, provides insights into the company’s contribution towards sustainable environmental practices. Launched in December 2020, Bazaara has a mission to streamline and simplify the shopping system in the Middle East, combining the accessibility of technology with the values of conscious shopping.
In recognition of World Ocean Day on June 8th and World Environment Day on June 6th, Bazaara shares a few progressive statistics that showcase the positive impact that its users had made on the environment as a whole. Entering their sixth month in the market, the app has successfully registered over 8,000 users on their platform, displaying over 13,000 live listings. The brand has facilitated the transaction of over 650 preloved fashion items, resulting in the conservation of over 1 million litres of water. To put things into perspective, according to WWF, on average every garment takes close to 2,000 litres of water to produce, depending on materials. In addition to reducing water consumption, Bazaara has helped offset over 958 pounds of CO2 emissions – as every pound of clothing bought secondhand instead of new saves 5.9 pounds of CO2 emissions according to The Gaia-Movement.
Bazaara is also announcing a new pledge to help conserve more than 5 million gallons of water this year. With the new initiative, the brand will partner with its users to ensure that enough secondhand sales are facilitated instead of new fashion sales, to translate into more than five million gallons of water conserved by year end.
According to Alyssa Mariano, co-founder of Bazaara, “On average, 60 percent of a person’s closet is unused. This ‘trapped inventory’ is the equivalent of $36 billion worldwide; what’s more is that up to $500 billion is lost due to clothing being underutilized or thrown away each year. We wanted to provide a platform to directly reduce these numbers,” she said.
The fashion industry is responsible for more than 10% of global carbon emissions, ranking them as thesecond-largest consumer of the world’s water supply, in addition to being accountable for 20% of all industrial water pollution worldwide. According to EcoWatch, it is estimated that 70% of rivers and lakes are contaminated by the 2.5 billion gallons of wastewater produced by the textile industry. Concern for the industry’s heavy contribution to environmental disintegration is the driving factor in creating positive change through Bazaara.
After downloading and registering on the Bazaara app, individuals can instantly list their secondhand fashion items for sale and choose their own sale prices, while buyers can make their own offers. After the buyer’s payment is completed, the courier is automatically dispatched for pickup and delivery, after which the seller receives payment to their Bazaara wallet.
For more information on Bazaara please visit www.bazaara.ae. Keep up with them on social media @bazaara.ae. The app is available to download through the App Store for iOS and the Google Play Store for Android.
A Thrifting Digital Marketplace Set to Change Consumer Habits
The app aims to make sustainable living more accessible through technology and offers flexible terms for buying and selling
Bazaara is a homegrown, digital platform for thrifting, buying and selling preloved clothing, championing slow and sustainable fashion. With a mission to redefine the shopping experience in the Middle East, the app combines the ease of technology with the values of living and dressing sustainably.
As the concept of thrifting gains popularity amongst younger generations, the demand for vintage and preloved items has shot up in recent years. While modernizing thrifting as a movement in the region, Bazaara offers a platform to showcase distinct and unique items that can only be found in their digital marketplace. In four simple steps, users can effortlessly declutter their wardrobe by passing on preloved items to buyers. The app offers convenience for the customers and sellers, taking care of the delivery and the payment - ensuring security on both fronts.
“We recognized a niche in the region for thrift shopping, especially since decluttering has become a priority for many, which typically starts from the closet,” said Alyssa Mariano, Co-Founder of Bazaara.
According to Mariano, on average, 60 percent of a person’s closet is unused. “This ‘trapped inventory’ is the equivalent of $36 billion worldwide; what’s more is that up to $500 billion is lost due to clothing being underutilized or thrown away each year. We wanted to provide a platform to directly reduce these numbers,” she said.
With the fashion industry producing more than 10% of global carbon emissions, being the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply, and responsible for 20% of all industrial water pollution worldwide, Alyssa is passionate about creating positive change.
“Bazaara was founded to make a difference within the industry by providing a user-friendly, all-inclusive platform to thrift, buy and sell preloved and vintage fashion. We hope to contribute to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint and building a more sustainable approach to fashion,” she added.
Through a bidding system that satisfies both the seller and the buyer, the app charges a minimal transaction fee in order to keep the sellers incentivized. After downloading and registering on the Bazaara app, sellers can instantly upload images and descriptions of the items they wish to sell. The seller receives the payment only once the item has been received by the buyer and they are satisfied.
For more information on Bazaara please visit www.bazaara.ae. Keep up with them on social media @bazaara.ae. The app is available to download through the App Store for iOS and the Google Play Store for Android.
Meet Our Sellers: INO.AE
"Meet Our Sellers" is a new series featuring our top sellers of vintage and preloved clothing in the UAE on BAZAARA. Download the app to shop their looks today.
Why did you start ino.ae?
INO.AE is a concept that has been more than 10 years in the making. I started my own mini shop at the age of 14, selling jewelry I’ve made and clothes my peers at the time, liked. But every time I’d think about the style and wardrobe of two of the most elegant and classy women in my life: my mother and her mom (my grandmother), I’d think, “I wish I could make/sell stuff like that instead!” They’ve always had an eye for the classics: from music and the arts, to clothing and furniture. I owe much of my taste to them. I’ve always kept this in my heart and fast forward to now, INO.AE is born out of an intense brainstorming session that involved Katy Perry’s song “It’s Never Really Over” on repeat, all because a little girl refused to give up on that dream. INO is my way of sharing the love for all things inspiring in the decades past, finding like-minded vintage-loving friends, and promoting a fierce individuality amongst women and their style of choice.
Tell us about your love for vintage items?
“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” - Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Sonnet 43
I love vintage and inspired items so much so that my house is filled with them! And no, it’s not a pile up of hoarded things, but very select pieces that have much of a sentimental value to me. As much as I love it, I also don’t believe in unnecessary hoarding. But if I were to count the ways vintage is a part of my life, I’d say from clothing to furniture, books and music.
Do you think vintage shopping is popular in the UAE and will it continue to gain in popularity?
People will always have their own idea of “vintage” because it’s such a personal journey. You pick a past era/decade, decide what it means to you, and you wear that style according to your preference. I hope that vintage shopping will continue to gain understanding more than popularity because there’s such a big difference in things like material used, techniques employed, cultural reflection etc. VS. modern clothing.
What are your favorite vintage pieces?
- A working phonograph I got from an old vendor who only had it as prop in his shop
- An original Polaroid camera
- Dresses I’ve inherited from my mom
How can we shop ino.ae vintage pieces?
Find INO on Bazaara & Instagram: @ino.ae
Bazaara is the Side Hustle We All Need
Declutter your closet while making money with the Bazaara app, available on iOS and Android
In with the new, out with the old. Declutter your closet and your home while earning extra cash with Bazaara, an easy-to-use app where you can buy and sell pre-loved clothing and home decor.
Bazaara is a peer-to-peer social marketplace app where you can buy or sell almost anything; including clothes, books, home decor, cosmetics, and more.
Here’s why you need to kickstart 2021 with Bazaara:
You'll have more space
Reduce your clutter by selling some of your gently-used clothing and home decor items and making space for new purchases. Bazaara keeps your pre-loved possessions out of the landfill.
You’ll appreciate what you have
A decluttered space leads to a decluttered mind. It can be a great way to learn what is truly important to you. By owning fewer things, you are more inclined to appreciate what you have, which in turn, helps create a happier life.
You can make money
Bazaara is a safe and smooth platform to make some extra money while decluttering your home. The app’s easy-to-use features allow for a seamless transaction and experience for both buyers and sellers.
How to use the Bazaara app
To sell:
Step 1: Download the Bazaara app on your mobile phone.
Step 2: After registering, click the camera icon at the bottom of the screen, upload images and a description of the item(s) you would like to sell, and click submit.
Step 3: Your item is listed. Once you receive a sales request from a buyer, you can either accept or decline the request.
Step 4: Once the order is confirmed, pack your item for pickup by the courier and get paid.
To Buy:
Step 1: Download the Bazaara app on your mobile phone.
Step 2: After registering, browse the categories or search for items you are looking for.
Step 3: Make a purchase request or an offer on any item you would like to purchase and wait for it to be accepted or countered.
Step 4: Once your order is accepted, you will receive a notification with tracking information from the courier. Your new item will arrive at your doorstep within 24 hours.
“Decluttering, especially during the beginning of a new year, can help set you up for success with a fresh space and a fresh mind,” said Alyssa Mariano, Co-Founder, Bazaara. “Bazaara can help you do just that — all while earning extra cash.”
Bazaara is available for iOS and Android and can be downloaded from the App Store and Play Store. Visit www.bazaara.ae to download the app today.
Turn Preloved Clothes into Cash with Bazaara
Launching today, Bazaara is a peer-to-peer online marketplace app for preloved clothes, accessories, and home goods in the UAE
Launching just in time for the festive season, Bazaara is an online haven for preloved clothes, accessories, and home goods. From exploring vintage gems to selling that untouched pair of shoes you never got around to wearing, Bazaara is a safe and easy place to turn clutter into cash or do some holiday shopping on a budget.
A quick glance at how Bazaara works
Say goodbye to the hassle of driving around town to make a 20-dirham sale. All you have to do is upload a picture of your item to the app, along with a description and your desired price, and list it. Once your item has been bought, Bazaara sends a courier service to your doorstep to collect and deliver your item, then the payment is pinged to you. Shipping fees are included in the listing price, so buyers and sellers don’t have to meet – it can all be done from the comfort and safety of home.
From trendy to timeless, find it on Bazaara
Bazaara is creating a buzzing community with all the hustle and bustle of a traditional marketplace but with digital perks. From connecting with friends on the app to liking, commenting, and sharing listings - it’s a shopaholic’s dream.
“As we hurtle towards a more digitally-inclined future, I wanted to bring the excitement of finding a steal at the mall or a thrift shop to online shoppers. I also wanted to bring fashion and decor enthusiasts together in a safe and social online community to discover, create, and inspire new trends,” said Alyssa Mariano, Co-founder of Bazaara.
Teeming with new styles, rare vintage pieces, and timeless trends - there’s something for everyone on Bazaara. In addition to landing some extra cash in your pocket before the festive season, Bazaara’s “passing on preloved” concept saves perfectly-usable items from ending up in landfills.
“The term ‘fast fashion’ has become more prominent in conversations surrounding fashion, sustainability, and environmental consciousness, as the fast fashion industry is, unfortunately, responsible for 10% of all greenhouse gas emissions,” Mariano continued. “We hope to decrease the impact this industry has on the environment by providing a seamless experience to trade preloved and vintage treasures.”
Bazaara is available for iOS and Android and can be downloaded from the App Store now.
Circular Fashion - A Passing Trend or New Way of Life?
Sustainability seems to be on everyone’s mind these days and rightly so. If there’s one lesson 2020 has taught us, it’s this—We have to do everything we can to save the planet. We’ve become more cautious about what we’re spending our time, money and energy on, and we’re one step closer to being mindful of our planet too. Sustainability is not just a trending buzzword anymore. It’s a way of life. It has led us to ‘circular fashion’ - an authentic and ethical way to look at the fashion industry as conscious consumers. Let’s take a closer look.
So what is circular fashion?
The Circular Fashion industry is designed with the aim of eliminating waste and reducing our carbon footprint by revamping the entire life cycle of an item – from design and sourcing to production and end usage – to make it sustainable forever. The term was first coined by Green Strategy founder Anna Brismar, in a bid to make the global fashion industry more circular in its impact.
It has made us rethink our fashion spend to source more ethically using recyclable resources that are non-toxic, biodegradable and reusable. It produces fashion items that can be shared across multiple users in its lifetime and be used in the real world for as long as possible. Once it reaches the end of its life cycle, it goes back into the ‘circle’ by getting recycled or composted as nourishment for plants and other organisms in the ecosystem. In other words, circular fashion should bring zero harm to the environment while making a positive contribution to our planet.
Are there any circular fashion brands yet?
Yes, there are! The first name that comes to mind is, of course, Stella McCartney. Her fame has been associated with sustainable fashion for years now, and she continues to be a pioneer and fighter for ethical sourcing of material across her labels. According to McCartney, the future of fashion is circular and will be created to be restorative and regenerative from design and inception itself. The luxury fashion house has also come up with innovative ways to reuse material like polyester and nylon and educate customers on how to care for their garments so they last much longer.
German fashion heavyweight Hugo Boss is one of the newest members to hop on to the circular fashion bandwagon. Boss was one of the first mainstream brands to adopt the use of Piñatex, a leather alternative made from discarded pineapple leaves, for a line of their limited-edition footwear. Other noteworthy brands include Netherlands based MUD Jeans who produced the world’s first circular denim line, Everlane’s ReNew collection that uses a fleece made from recycled plastic bottles, BEEN London who recycles waste to make handbags and accessories and so many more! The list is growing and we’re excited to see what’s going to come out next.
How can you support the circular fashion industry?
The world is changing fast and we need to keep up. Luckily, most of us have realised that fast-fashion is no longer the solution. It’s time we invested in the long-term life of our closet and our planet. Here’s how:
- Look at labels before you buy. Supporting ethically sourced material that can be recycled or composted is a key step in going circular.
- Donate, borrow and share. We live in a sharing economy where we’re happy to call an Uber and stay in an Airbnb. Why not make our closets shareable too? Host annual clothes-swaps with your friends and give preloved pieces a new home by selling or donating them.
- Spend less, but spend better. Invest in key pieces that you know won’t go out of fashion quickly. Blacks, whites, neutrals and denim can be mixed-and-matched to create new outfits each time.
Ready to join the circular fashion revolution? Tell us how in the comments below and sign up to Bazaara today to learn more.