More Valuable Than New | Volunteering in Gyumri

Armenia must steadily adopt second-hand wear with the right mindset and why the advantages outweigh a more sustainable society.

I came with a one-way ticket from the United States. Now I am here with my ambition and passion for bringing all my experience in used clothing from the United States, Germany, and Japan to my motherland. I want to revive the value and worth of vintage clothing here and why it is profitable and improves Armenia's future. Over time, the word "used clothing" has unfortunately become negatively depreciated and has minimal value on Armenia's consumer target and demographics. In the used clothing industry, there are three levels of sorting that happen in the warehouse, the premium being the highest quality while vintage and remake are considered the caviar (Nike, Adidas, Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, etc.), the second class is more affordable/standard collections of brands, and the third level is usually the less desirable of garments or non-brand ones.

The Reusable Fashion Trend

The second-hand demand will never depreciate; on the contrary, it is becoming an asset. Countries like Armenia have to emphasize acknowledging why it is a MUST to change the consuming habits of garments. I have thought about this over and over what the introductory approach can become. Since there is a majority on why our people enjoy expressing their status through clothing, accessories, properties, and materials, the first can be to transition with adding sustainability and make the word "reuse" uplifting. Of course, the perspective from a conservative aspect on fashion in Armenia is changing with respect. On a personal appeal, it revives individualism without verbalizing why you are who you are without trying to fit into Armenian society. However, the remaining obstacles still have to be overcome for males' and females' appearance in public. Suppose everyone can adopt such a mentality in their lifestyle. In that case, the advantages are enormous and influential. Increasing buying of second-hand clothing rather than new, creating jobs, reducing waste, and improving the overall environment will bring harmony.

Personally speaking, since we have carried our Armenian culture with pride wherever we go and continue to practice our traditions, why can't we as well become the first nation with the most diversified styles of reusable fashion to produce and reuse clothing in the world?