How I stopped buying fast fashion 5 years ago.

In 2020, I started listening to podcasts obsessively. The reason was threefold:
I had a newborn baby who adored her long buggy walks, it was lockdown in Ireland — and walking felt like the only thing we could do for nearly a year — and there was suddenly an explosion of incredible podcasts to discover.

I found my podcast tribe in fashion women who spoke about everything I cared about. Around that time, I started listening to interviews with founders of second-hand platforms, including Vestiaire Collective. That was my entry point. By spring, I was selling pieces from my wardrobe.

By September, I had not only sold pieces but also started buying second-hand toys for my daughter — a small but significant shift as I realised the huge amount of waste generated by having a baby. That same month, I heard about Second Hand September and decided to take part.

At the time, I was also losing weight after pregnancy and rediscovering my style. The motivation was strong — I wanted pieces that reflected this new phase of me. I began with a “new” or “new with tags” filter on Vestiaire Collective and was amazed at what I found: luxury pieces for less than a Zara dress, beautifully made, timeless, and still among my favourite pieces today.

The Thrill of the Hunt

The chase of the right item is intoxicating — but here’s the key:
It has to be the right piece, in the right size, in the right colour.

That thrill shouldn’t make you compromise. I see this often in wardrobe detox sessions: clients who buy second hand “because it’s a bargain,” only for the item to sit unworn at the back of the wardrobe, whispering guilt.

Second hand is no excuse to compromise.
If it’s not the right piece, wait. I’ve had wish lists simmering for years before I finally found the one. And it’s always worth it.

A Wardrobe That Works Hard for You

My philosophy is simple: your wardrobe should bring you joy, work hard, and make you feel amazing every single day.

Quality and longevity matter more than novelty — and if those pieces happen to be second hand, even better. But what truly matters is that you wear them regularly and with joy, rather than owning a collection of “meh” items that don’t make you feel 100%.

That’s the difference between fashion and personal style.

Finding My Flow

Over time, I learned a new rhythm of consuming — slower, more deliberate, infinitely more satisfying. Sure, there were hiccups. But whenever a piece didn’t work, I immediately resold it.

When I moved to France, I started using Vinted for more mid-range finds, and it’s been brilliant. In fact, nearly everything I’ve bought in the last two years has been second hand.

I filter by “new with tags,” “new,” or “very good condition,” which means everything I receive feels fresh. I still spend time in stores — part of my job as a stylist — but I now shop with intention. I keep wish lists and only buy what I truly need. My best pieces last year? Every single one was second hand. Even my Christmas gifts were.

What to Watch Out For

Of course, not all resale platforms are equal.
Vestiaire Collective remains fantastic for authenticating luxury items, but their commissions can make mid-range pieces pricier.

Vinted, meanwhile, offers amazing deals — but requires vigilance. Always check seller reviews and past sales. And beware of fakes (especially popular brands like UGGs).

If you’re just starting out, explore brand-owned resale platforms — many now authenticate and refurbish their own pre-loved pieces. It’s a safe and satisfying way to begin.

The Takeaway

Buying second hand isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being thoughtful.
It’s about creating a wardrobe that tells your story, filled with pieces that feel yours.

I haven’t looked back once.

🕊️ Are you already a seasoned second-hand shopper — or curious to start?
Tell me in the comments what your experience has been.

✨ And if you’d like help curating or detoxing your wardrobe sustainably,
book a Wardrobe Refresh Session — in Paris or online. Let’s make your wardrobe work harder for you.

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Merci for reading,
Marie
Personal Shopper & Sustainable Stylist, Paris

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