There is value in everything on this earth. From the air we breathe, to the new or secondhand shoes on our feet, all of the things we use, touch, taste, spend, or save in our daily routine bring some form of value into our lives.
In recent years, secondhand shopping has been on the rise, giving eco-conscious consumers an outlet to spend responsibly, affecting both their pocketbook and the environment in a way that is beneficial. With this shopping trend showing no signs of slowing down, the resale industry is projected to hit its highest level yet in 2026. In fact, a projection given by ThredUp, one of the leading resale stores in the U.S. estimates that the resale market will reach into the billions next year.
So, what is it about thrift shopping that appeals to the modern consumer? As a reseller of ten years and consignment store owner in a small town, my answer to that question can be summed up in one simple but powerful word. Value.
One who gives thought, gives attention, gives care, gives focus, gives time and energy-gives value to others.Arianna Huffingtion, Foreward, The Go-Giver.
As we probably have experienced, the cost of everything is much higher than in recent years, causing many people to make choices regarding their spending habits. And, while a price tag on the cost of what brings value to any individual will vary from person to person, one thing that seems universal is that it always feels good to get a good deal.
But on the other hand of the equation, for me as the seller, I can honestly say that I feel great satisfaction in passing on value to others. In my world, it feels good to give a great deal.
Having spent over ten years in the resale profession, I have seen the overwhelming amount of quality clothing items that are discarded. Items that are new with tags, barely worn, and still have an incredible amount of value to give to the right person. I began, in 2014, finding items for my kids and family that were ‘good as new’ while saving me money. But, I quickly realized that there was an abundance of clothes and accessories available to pass on to others, thus, my reselling journey began.
When I opened my storefront Threads By Kelly in 2022, it was born from a desire to share modern fashion trends to my local community, with an emphasis on the importance of sustainability and eco-consciousness through secondhand shopping, and giving value to others through affordable style.
While, I am not sure if this is where I pictured myself to be ten years after making my first online sale, I do know that I love when customers load up a store bag full of trendy styles and are amazed by the price tag. When you shop at Threads by Kelly, whether you are adding to your existing wardrobe, or making a purchase to give to someone else, you can be sure that are getting or giving a great deal.
“Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you take in payment”.
This line of text from The Go-Giver, first published in 2007, is just one nugget of truth found in this thought-provoking read. Told through a real-life story perspective (much like The Celestine Prophecy), another favorite read of mine, this self-help parable takes you through five laws of stratospheric success to implement on your own journey. From being authentic to allowing yourself to receive, The Go-Giver has the potential to change your world.
With value in mind, I plan to keep on giving affordable fashion to others as long as the giving is good: to my community, to my friends, to family, and to strangers who just want a slice of something ‘new to them’. Generosity is the natural way our hearts interact with the world. As 2025 comes to a close, I wish to share my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me by shopping at Threads. May you all prosper in 2026.
Threads By Kelly 