‘The History of Secondhand Fashion, From Trash to Vintage Treasure’ Webinar

Despite vintage shopping being all the rage these days, buying and selling used clothing is nothing new: throughout most of history, clothing was an extremely valuable commodity that was perpetually traded, resold, and reused until it literally turned into shreds. But when the industrial revolution enabled people to purchase new clothing for lower prices, secondhand clothing became stigmatized as a sign of poverty. This is the story of how secondhand clothing went from an economic necessity to a fashion statement that expressed individual style amidst mass consumerism.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore how secondhand shopping has evolved throughout history and new ways to appreciate, and incorporate, vintage clothing into our modern wardrobes.

Led by fashion historian Sara Idacavage, this fast-paced and interactive webinar will include:

• Creative ways that people have resold, recycled, and repurposed clothing throughout history
• How secondhand shopping went from a stigmatized practice to mainstream fashion phenomenon
• The reasons why many people choose to buy and wear secondhand clothing
• How retailers and auctions houses categorize and determine the value of secondhand clothing
• A quick guide to vintage shopping, including what to look for, how to date garments, and the best ways to care for your favorite pieces.
• Tips on how secondhand fashion practices can be used to create a more sustainable fashion system

Stick around afterward for a Q&A with Sara, who will be ready to answer any-and-all questions about vintage shopping and the history of fashion.

See you there, virtually! $10.

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

About Sara

Sara Idacavage is a fashion historian, archivist, and vintage collector with a background in fashion journalism. She has taught courses at Parsons School of Design, the Pratt Institute, and the Fashion Institute of Technology, and is an Associate Editor of The Fashion Studies Journal. Sara previously managed the Parsons Fashion Study Collection, worked as an archivist for prominent American fashion designers, and interned in the costume collection at the Museum of the City of New York.