Thrifting in SG: Singapore’s thrifted retail therapy

SINGAPORE: In the bustling streets of Singapore, a retail therapy revolution is quietly unfolding under the banner of “thrifting in SG”. Thrifting also known as purchasing used items, was once confined to budget-conscious and eco-conscious consumers but has now evolved into a wellness trend.

The resale market for used clothing, shoes, and accessories is on the rise, with more people opting for second-hand items. As per the recent ThredUp 2023 Resale Report, the global used clothing market is expected to reach a remarkable US$350 billion (S$479 billion) by 2027, nearly doubling its current size, as reported by Yahoo News.

In response to the growing thrifting trend, Choy Jia Yu and her friends established Thryft in 2019, with sustainability as a central mission. Thryft, a unique blend of online and offline thrift shopping, currently operates as a pop-up at Peace Centre.

Thryft specializes in offering quality second-hand books and clothing, all priced at a fraction of their original costs. Choy, a 24-year-old member of Generation Z, reflects on her inspiration for this venture, “A couple of years back, thrifting wasn’t as big as it is now. It involved a lot of going to traditional thrift shops, which was fun but somewhat niche. We wanted to make buying second-hand more accessible to those who would normally go for traditional retail.”

For Choy, thrifting is not just a trend but a conscious effort to address the environmental impact of fast fashion. She feels a sense of accomplishment in knowing that she’s giving pre-loved items a new lease on life without guilt.

But overall, how does shopping contribute to feeling better, and is there more to it than meets the eye?

According to Web MD, retail therapy is when individuals go shopping with the primary goal of making themselves feel better. 62% of shoppers buy something to cheer themselves up, while an additional 28% make a purchase to celebrate a special occasion.

Benefits of Retail Therapy

Retail therapy can be viewed as frivolous, but there are psychological benefits to it than meets the eye.

1. Restores Control: Making choices while shopping can restore a sense of control over one’s life.
2. Boosts Happiness: The anticipation of a treat or reward releases dopamine in the brain, making individuals feel good.
3. Emotional Journey: Simply browsing through stores or online shops can provide an exciting emotional journey.
4. Distraction: Shopping takes people away from their sources of sadness, offering a welcome distraction.
5. Social Interaction: It can lead to connections with others as individuals explore malls or online marketplaces.
6. Therapeutic Saving: Saving up for a desired item gives something to look forward to and releases dopamine over time.

In fact, a study found that buying things one enjoys can be up to 40 times more effective at regaining a sense of control compared to not shopping at all.

With the thrifting trend on the rise in Singapore, more people are finding retail therapy not only enjoyable but also an opportunity for personal well-being. It’s a subtle revolution, reshaping how Singaporeans find solace and happiness in the act of shopping.