A shopper discovered a high-end cast-iron skillet at a thrift store for just $12.98, highlighting how thrift shopping can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to upgrade kitchenware and promote sustainable living.
Despite declining popularity as a social site among Gen Z, Facebook's Marketplace has become a go-to platform for young adults looking to save money by purchasing secondhand items. With limited disposable income, many 20-somethings are turning to the platform to find affordable deals on furniture, kitchen appliances, and décor, preferring its user-friendly interface over other sites. This shift reflects a trend of Gen Z using Facebook primarily as a marketplace rather than a social networking site, as they spend more time on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
A bride-to-be found her dream 70’s-style wedding dress in pristine condition at a thrift store for $24, a nearly 99% discount from the average wedding dress cost, showcasing the benefits of thrift shopping for affordable, quality clothes while being environmentally friendly. The secondhand market for wedding dresses offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative, contributing to reducing waste in the fashion industry and the carbon footprint, with the added convenience of online platforms like Poshmark and thredUP.
In a Reddit thread on r/Frugal, users shared their top frugal tips for 2024, including shopping around for insurance, instituting a designated shopping day, eating down pantry and freezer items, maximizing rewards systems, and being mindful of social media influences. Other tips included repairing and repurposing items, checking grocery markdown racks, utilizing the local library, buying items on special, cooking legumes, and buying returned items. Additionally, users recommended using washcloths instead of paper towels, seeking discounts for treats, reviewing cable and cellular plans, and finding a partner with similar financial goals.
Jessica Vincent, a woman from Virginia, bought a vase for $3.99 at Goodwill and later sold it at an art auction for over $100,000, changing her life. The vase, identified as a rare piece by Venetian architect Carlos Scarpa, garnered widespread media attention and was sold to a collector in Europe. Vincent, who needed the money, is thrilled about the sale and hopes the vase will eventually end up in a museum.
A woman purchased a vase for $3.99 at a Goodwill store in Virginia, only to later discover it was worth over $100,000. After identifying it as a rare piece designed by Carlo Scarpa and produced in a Murano glass workshop, she listed it for auction and it sold for $107,000. The woman plans to use the proceeds to repair a farmhouse she owns. Goodwill and the auction house were both surprised by the valuable find.
Gen Z, the youngest adult generation, is finding ways to save and splurge on their personal finances. Despite economic uncertainty, 89% of Gen Z reported saving money on something in 2023, while 75% said they spent a lot on something. Many Gen Z individuals prioritize spending on things they value, such as luxury pet food and ski equipment, while cutting back on items that don't matter to them. They also embrace thrift shopping and use strategies like online codes and coupons to save money on purchases. However, despite feeling good about managing their bills, two-thirds of Gen Z doubt their long-term financial security and fear being one financial emergency away from being in debt.