The Second-hand Stigma

There are two types of people in the world. The ones who screw up their faces as they walk past the op-shop, complaining about the smell, and the others who walk in and wonder what vintage treasures they may find.

It's time our second-hand seeking friends gather up their nearest and dearest to break down this stigma, because we have a real problem to discuss. 

Did you know 85% of our unloved clothing can fill the Sydney Harbour Bridge annually? Most of these items have only been in our wardrobe for six months. This means Australia discards up to 935kg of clothing every minute.

The sad fact is that 95% of these textile materials can be recycled.

However, it does not stop there. The fast fashion industry is responsible for 20% of the world's water waste, half a billion tonnes of microfibres are washed into our waterways, and 10% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions.

These are overwhelming statistics when you are craving some retail therapy, but luckily, there is a solution. It is time to get comfortable with the term "second-hand". We need to remove the 'bad' association with the terms 're-gifted'; 'hand-me-downs' and 'borrowed from a friend', because keeping clothes in circulation will give our planet a chance to rest and rejuvenate.

On top of removing this stigma, we need to think before we buy. Instead of buying a dress for an occasion, purchase an outfit that will last a lifetime. Indulge in treating yourself to something new, but choose thoughtful, sustainable, or recyclable brands. 

It's time we make conscious and timeless decisions regarding what we wear!  

With this in mind, we want to take Lost Sols' mission to the next level. We are searching for a way we can give back and create change, because we want to be more than a footwear brand. We want to leave our footprint on the world in a positive way. So, we are reaching out to you, our community of Lost Sols. If you (or someone you know) are working on a project, collaboration, charity or event we would love to help.