fall clothing - where I buy secondhand vs. new

From vintage to Mango to designer, how’s one to choose where to hunt and where to buy off the rack?

You’re browsing socials and see your favorite creator or brand post new fall launches. You’re enthralled by a new release pleated skirt for $129 as you’ve been hunting for one…but also resonate with the ethos and sustainability of a secondhand find. Here’s how I think through my new vs. secondhand purchases.

(I’d be remiss to not mention that, unfortunately, the cost of staying appraised on brands and being able to assess/vouch for quality as a job is trying a lot of shit, whether I buy it, receive a gift, or spend hours shopping in person. Despite the fact that many of my Pigmami calling cards and favorite pieces are secondhand, I test many more contemporary pieces now than I did when I was shopping just for myself.)

Without further ado…

SHOES

Mostly secondhand! Slightly cheating as I technically own more new shoes than secondhand, but my most worn and most asked about pairs are my secondhand ones.

I empathize with the trepidation around secondhand footwear, but I promise they don’t all come with a broken heel, dry rot, or stink waves emanating from them. Comfortable, quality shoes are a must for me so knowing that a pair looks great having lived a life before me gives me confidence that we will have a long happy life together. If I were not testing so many pairs in the name of Research™, I would not be in the business of acquiring new shoes every season. My favorites are pairs I return to year after year, and actually WANT to take to the cobbler to extend their life.

Some of my favorite secondhand shoe finds over the years have been my Chanel flats (I purchased mine for $350 at a DC consignment store), Chanel lizard boots, and Stuart Weitzman kitten heels. Getting a pair of $500 dreamy 90s heels in perfect condition for $30 on eBay? Sign me up. IMO, skip the $70 Mango heels that may only last 1-2 blister-filled seasons.