West adds, “Or that it’s for a certain economic class, or it’s dirty. Or it’s only for costumes or to be funny,” says Vienne. “People think it’s only old, out-of-style clothing. There’s just so much good stuff out there already,” says West.Even though thrifting’s popularity is growing, there are still misconceptions. That was a big appeal of the business model because it made us feel we were making a difference… We’re reselling stuff that’s already been bought the first time, so the initial impact on the environment is done. “It’s our philosophy that day to day we have an emphasis on reusing and sustainability. Like many of their customers, Vienne and West consider the ecological benefits of thrifting a major plus. “And some people are looking for stuff that’s hard to find, like recent stuff from stores that doesn’t exist in Edmonton anymore or an independent brand from a shop in a bigger centre, like Vancouver.” “Sustainable fashion is becoming more and more of a thing,” adds Vienne. Like with Instagram, it’s all about showing something unique, a trophy,” says West. There’s also the thrill of the hunt… Social media really promotes that. With what’s been going on lately, I think people are more interested in stretching their dollars. Vienne and West say their customers range in age from twentysomethings to sixtysomethings and choose to shop second hand for varying reasons. Vienne adds, “We look for funky, slightly edgier stuff and not so much business suits… We’re more for the everyday fashionista.” It’s not like going to a new store, and it’s not like going to Goodwill,” says West. They curate carefully and pre-sort the pieces that make it into the store. They look for hard-to-find, independent labels in favour of well-known brands. When the duo took over the shop four years ago, they set out to create a new concept in consignment and thrifting. “It’s not stigmatized the way that it was before-it’s almost like a badge of honour like, hey, I found something unique, and I got a deal.” “Thrifting has become more mainstream,” says Vienne. Vienne and West have been in the consignment business together since they bought Red Pony (formerly Robes and Relics) in the spring of 2011. The couple owns Red Pony Consignment, a 900-square-foot boutique in the Garneau neighborhood that sells previously owned women’s and men’s clothing and accessories. Whether we credit the thrill of the find, the unbeatable deals, Instagram envy or the environmental benefits, there’s no doubt that thrifting is trending in Edmonton. It seems everyone from students and soccer moms to fashion bloggers and personal stylists are poppin’ tags at local thrift shops-and they’re proud of it. Recycled, upcycled, vintage or nearly new, these days second-hand is getting a well-deserved second look. Gone Thrifting! Trend meets philosophy at Red Pony Consignment
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