According to online sources such as Ashford Institute of Antiques, ThredUp and Market Intelo, the vintage clothing market is now a $7.2 billion business and is expected to double by 2034. Driven by inflation, sustainability, millennials and Gen Z, the vintage and secondhand retail market is growing twice as fast as traditional retail.
Adding to the research on the growth of vintage and used markets are several factors common among millennials and Gen Z, such as lower costs for items, sustainable living and eco-friendly options. Plus, shoppers have been found to like the stories behind the items and the opportunity for personal expression in their clothing and home décor.
To see the popularity of vintage in action, stop by a future Vintage Clothing Market event at the Hartville Marketplace. The event was last held July 17 alongside the Midnight Market event and was packed with vendors and shoppers. The events ran from 5 to 9 p.m., which is different from the morning and afternoon hours of the flea market.
While there were people of all ages shopping, there were more millennials and Gen Z shoppers looking through the merchandise…