The Second-Hand Clothing Market Could Soon Outstrip Fast Fashion

Thrift store purchases are expected to soar 127% globally by 2026, 3 times faster than the overall clothing market. In 2022, second-hand clothing sales rose by 24% worldwide, reaching $119 billion. 42% of sales are in North America, where the market is expanding 8 times faster than the overall clothing market. By the end of 2025, second-hand buys could reach 10% of all US clothing sales. That’s $31 billion a year in pre-loved attire. It’s part of a wider evolution in what we wear, away from fast fashion.