Thrift Flipping: Is it Fatphobic?

Is thrift flipping Fatphobic?
While the transformations are always on-trend, there’s been criticism of its role in subtly promoting fatphobia. Videos of young, thin women purchasing clothes from thrift stores and turning them into nearly unrecognisable garments have quickly become a mainstay of the thrift flip genre.
Read more on i-d.vice.com

Buying used items like furniture, clothing, or home décor and selling them after changing or repurposing them is known as thrift flipping. Due of its affordability and sustainability, this approach has been more popular recently. Some people are debating if fatphobia is present in thrift flipping, though.

Fatphobia is the stigmatization and prejudice of those who are deemed to be obese or overweight. It is a problem that is widespread in our culture and has many different guises. One route is through the fashion sector, where plus-sized people are underrepresented and have few options. Flipping thrift stores fits perfectly here.

Thrifting reinforces the notion that larger sizes are unattractive, which can be interpreted as being fatphobic. Many people who buy and sell stuff at thrift stores only buy smaller items because they think they will sell faster. This limits the alternatives available to plus-sized people when it comes to secondhand shopping, furthering the myth that their bodies are of inferior worth.

Not all thrift store flippers, though, are fatphobic. Some people purposefully look for and alter plus-sized clothing, fostering a market for these products and encouraging body positivity. It is critical to understand that the problem with thrift flipping is not the practice itself, but rather the attitudes and behaviors of individuals who engage in it.

How then can I determine the value of an item?

When thrift flipping, knowing an item’s value is vital. Online research is one method of figuring out an item’s value. Websites like eBay and Etsy can give information on the prices being paid for comparable goods. You can also look into online forums and markets that focus on the specific area you are interested in.

How therefore do I determine the worth of my clothing?

Knowing the value of your clothing is crucial if you plan to sell it. Checking out online marketplaces like Poshmark, Depop, or Mercari to see how much comparable products are going for can be one method to achieve this. To get an indication of how much your clothing might be worth, you can also visit thrift stores or consignment shops.

How can I come up with a creative business name, too?

It can be difficult to come up with a memorable company name, but it is necessary to stand out in a crowded industry. Brainstorming with friends or family is one technique to come up with a catchy name. Try to think of terms or phrases that are related to the goods or services you provide. To assist you come up with ideas, you may also use internet resources like NameMesh or Shopify’s Business Name Generator. How can I come up with a distinctive company name?

In order to build a brand identity, a distinctive company name is essential. Using your imagination is one method for coming up with a distinctive name. Think of utilizing terms or expressions that are not frequently used in your sector. You may also try fusing two words together or coming up with a brand-new word. Make sure the name is simple to spell, pronounce, and determine if it has previously been trademarked. To search for already-existing trademarks, you can utilize resources like Trademarkia or the US Patent and Trademark Office’s website.

Finally, although thrift flipping can be fatphobic, it needn’t be. It is critical to acknowledge the problem and make a concerted effort to spread the message of inclusivity and body acceptance in the secondhand market. Additionally, doing research is essential when thrift flipping or figuring out an item’s value. When coming up with a name for your company, brainstorming and thinking creatively can help you come up with a catchy and distinctive name that accurately describes your brand.

FAQ
What is the name of the online thrift store?

Sadly, the headline of this piece, “Thrift Flipping: Is it Fatphobic?”