Throwing is no longer trendy; fashion knows it all too well. So, how did the sector manage to develop a sub-economy that was as profitable as it was eco-friendly, outside the traditional channels?

Historically, the clothing industry has always been linked to charitable associations to help the most disadvantaged, Fast Fashion and the overproduction of clothing, have nevertheless disrupted the traditional scheme.

The second-hand clothing has gradually changed its status. In a few years, the annual good deed has evolved into an ecological awareness, encouraging the multiplication of recycling initiatives. By empowering the consumer, clothing has entered into a logic of sustainability whose vide-dressings are the most active ambassadors (in physical outlets such as Violette Sauvage but also online, Vinted).

The public’s enthusiasm for this new way of consuming contributes to the development of a circular, more ethical and environmentally friendly economy. Decreasing purchasing power, ecological awareness, desire to individualize appearance, this parallel fashion market is responding to new expectations, galvanized by the Millennium niche. In a difficult economic situation, vide-dressings provide a double satisfaction: the resale of old clothes finances the purchase of new parts.

Long considered as a marginal concept, they are certainly a response to economic reality, but also owe their success to environmental and social concerns. Far from the traditional norms practiced in stores, social mixing is required. These events encourage meetings and exchanges to become community spaces where everyone hopes to find their own nugget… and if it is vintage, it’s even better!

Ubiquitous in the current fashion landscape, vide-dressings would almost achieve the feat of transforming fast fashion into slow fashion, and the most abundant cupboards, into an ethical dressing room: so why do without them?!