Uncovering Hidden Gems: My Thrifting Adventure at El Wekala

By Lama Abdelgelil

As any seasoned thrifter knows, the thrill of the hunt is half the fun. Throughout the past week, I came across so many unique pieces that ended in one of my best thrifting hauls ever.

It all started at a Roxy store that's tucked away in a corner. It was a Tuesday evening, and as I made my way through the tightly packed racks, a vibrant splash of green caught my eye. Bingo! A fitted sheer shirt in shades of green and yellow. I inspected it closely, checking for any snags, stains or other imperfections that would be a deal-breaker. But it passed with flying colors - not a single flaw to be found on the gorgeous semi-sheer fabric. No stains or damage, and just 30 EGP. An absolute steal for such a trendy and vibrant piece.

Energized by my early success, I moved my thrifting game online next. I've started following Instagram thrifting accounts and the algorithm was recommending me even more. That's where I landed my second major score of the week: a sling black Diesel bag. The brand alone had me eager to see it in person. This had to be at least 20 years old, but it was in almost pristine condition when it arrived a few days later. The thick, luscious leather had a beautiful patina and the hardware gleamed like new. 700 EGP was a hefty price to pay for a secondhand bag, but the quality and brand cachet made it worth every pound in my eyes.

But I had saved the best for last - a trip to the iconic Souq Diana in the heart of downtown Cairo. Amidst the winding alleys and chattering vendors, I stumbled upon a small stall selling a jumbled assortment of watches and jewelry. That's where my thrifting senses went into overdrive, scanning each piece carefully for potential gems. And there among the rusty, scratched and dented piles, stood out one that looked very new and pristine. It was a stunning Gucci watch. My heart started racing as I pulled it from the pile to examine it more closely. Genuine stainless steel, that unmistakable embossed logo, and a price tag of just 300 EGP? The vendor insisted it was authentic, though I would still get it verified later. But at that price, I simply couldn't resist. I literally snapped that up right away and felt like the biggest winner on earth.

During the weekend, looking back at all my catches, my face was flushed with the vigorous thrifting workout and sheer delight of my phenomenal finds. A stunning sheer shirt, vintage Diesel bag, and luxury watch - a triple score that exemplifies why thrifting is so wildly addictive. The excitement of finding such special pieces for a fraction of their retail price is an incomparable thrill. You truly never know what treasures await amidst the racks and stalls. But one thing's for sure, I'll be back hitting those thrift stores hard again next week!

Do you also want to start finding great, cheap catches? Follow Upstyled on Instagram for help and hidden gems!

fashion with a history touch

 

       have you ever felt like fashion is being overrated topic, don’t you?   we always hear it millions of time and we don’t know if it is only because gen Z are obsessed with wearing trendy fashion picks or does it have any valuable origin?

     so, let’s figure it out together, the word fashion is originated from the latins as “facere” which means in English “do” – so it means something people create and do- so here comes the real question, which is, what did Latin’s have to do for that topic?

     In 1492, Christopher Columbus discovered Latin, he was impressed by the way the natives dress, their material goods their cotton clothes and their feather works, so he decided to maintain a pyramid of hierarchy and obligated them keep wearing their known clothes so that they can’t be mixed with other nationalities . it was a new world to Europeans so they name these people “the new world”.  it wasn’t the first incident, but it was known for ancient Romans and ancient Egyptians to differentiate their social class based on their clothes as for kings and queens were to wear a bright colorful garments with jewelry while other social class were to wear neutral simple garments.  and from here it justifies the role of psychology in fashion as it is introduced as kind of applied psychology that explains the relationship between material and man’s behavior and attitudes (towards himself and others) besides his feelings & emotions and his identity.

       From here we can’t say fashion is our new trend, its definition into “fashion” and make it a “trend” is the way for Gen Z to talk about clothes, but it is already existed long way before it becoming  a societal standard of beauty, it is not defined by a kind of style , Moreover, philosophers were interested to introduce fashion to ancient people and it was known by “beauty” considered it to be a way of art. As Socrates gave the world its initial explanation which he saw it as objective and unique quality that is beyond any physical or personal appearance, it reflect true beauty that speaks of itself and linked to its influence , virtues ,goodness and its ability to inspire.

         as you see, Fashion had been an crucial debate for years and a great field to study in human science not last but least it has a great role in political, economical, environmental and international state . that’s why we find fashion change by changing its era and now as a result of globalization -and role of media/ social media , collective mind has influenced internationally .developing a new perspective of fashion and making it in constant change and improvement. Beauty standards started to be eradicated .The world is witnessing radical changes. International and multi-national brands started to be declined as a result of political views , on other hand new ideology appeared which leads to new economic system , employment opportunities, agriculture role appear to provide them with material . fashion has become an enormous economical power in our era.

And here comes the biggest question, do you still think that fashion is a trendy overrated topic?

From Fast Fashion Frenzy to Sustainable Style

By Reitage Alaa

We've all been there. Scrolling through social media, bombarded by images of perfectly styled influencers rocking the latest trends. Suddenly, your closet feels a little lackluster, and that cute top you bought last month seems, well, last month. The allure of fast fashion - trendy styles at rock-bottom prices - is undeniable. But before you hit "add to cart," consider this: the hidden costs of cheap clothes can be high, impacting your wallet and the planet.

Fast fashion thrives on a cycle of overconsumption, fueling a relentless pressure to buy more and discard more. This blog post chronicles my journey from a fast-fashion devotee to a conscious consumer. We'll explore the seductive appeal of cheap clothes, unveiling how quickly the "new" becomes obsolete and the hefty price tag attached to our desire for trendy clothes. However, we'll also delve into the harsh realities lurking beneath the surface – the environmental impact, the ethical concerns, and the manipulative tactics employed by fast fashion companies. Ultimately, we'll explore how to break free from this cycle of overconsumption and embrace a more sustainable approach to fashion.

The Awakening

Culture of Waste

Our modern world is filled with hidden persuaders, manipulating us into thinking a certain way and ultimately spending our money. The social impacts and ploys used by the fast fashion industry have become alarmingly clear in my exploration of its inner workings. Here's how fast fashion uses illusion and manipulation to keep us in a cycle of constant consumption:

Illusion of Happiness:

Fashion corporations create a powerful illusion that happiness can be bought. They craft a world where acquiring more clothes fills a void and constant buying signifies fulfillment. This subconsciously fuels "retail therapy," the act of shopping to cope with stress, offering a temporary escape that comes at a cost – financial strain and clutter. The kicker? Fast fashion thrives on this very cycle. The constant barrage of new styles makes us dissatisfied with what we have, perpetuating the message that "more is more" and happiness lies in the next purchase.

Price of Low Prices:

The allure of low prices and "buy more, save more" tactics can be a deceptive trap. We fall for the illusion of a bargain, making impulsive purchases on unnecessary items fueled by the fear of missing out. This mentality prioritizes quantity over quality, perpetuating a cycle of overconsumption and environmental waste. Fast fashion thrives on this very idea, churning out trendy clothing at rock-bottom prices. New collections flood stores weekly, tempting us with fleeting styles made for a single season. The price might be tempting, like a trendy top for the cost of coffee, but this affordability comes at a hidden cost.

Pressure to Follow Trends:

In a world of fast-changing trends, the pressure to stay relevant is immense. Fashion influencers, advertising, and social media bombard us with the "latest" must-haves, creating a sense of urgency to constantly update our wardrobes. The fear of falling behind fuels impulsive purchases, driven by our society's glorification of the "new." Social media overflows with people flaunting new acquisitions, creating pressure to keep up with the Joneses. This relentless pursuit of "more" is a carefully crafted ploy by corporations, but it comes at a hidden cost: both our wallets and the planet suffer from this cycle of buying and discarding, leaving us feeling like outsiders if we don't participate.

Environmental Devastation

As I delved deeper into the world of fast fashion, I began to uncover the harsh reality behind the glamour. The environmental toll of mass production, exploitation of garment workers, and the staggering amount of textile waste generated by the industry opened my eyes to the true cost of my shopping habits.

Confronting Overconsumption

Confronted with the stark truth of overconsumption, I embarked on a journey towards mindful consumption. I started questioning the need for constant purchases and began exploring sustainable alternatives such as thrifting, upcycling, and investing in quality pieces that stood the test of time.

Embracing Change

This learning experience with fast fashion and the ploy of overconsumption has been a transformative journey. It's not just my shopping habits that have changed; my perspective on fashion as a whole has shifted. I now prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, supporting brands that value transparency, and fair labor practices. By understanding the impact of our choices as consumers, we hold the power to shape a more sustainable and equitable future for the fashion industry and beyond.

Call to Action

Did this blog post leave you wanting to ditch the fast fashion cycle and embrace a more sustainable wardrobe? You're not alone! Share your experiences and tips for sustainable shopping in the comments below. Let's work together to break free from overconsumption and create a more ethical and sustainable future for fashion. Join the conversation and share your sustainable style journey! Let's choose quality over quantity, and together, we can untangle ourselves from the trap.

Threads Across Borders: An Eco-Friendly Journey Exploring Sustainable Fashion through Thrifting Abroad

by Habiba ElGindy

   

     Embarking on a semester abroad is an opportunity to explore new cultures, friends, cuisines, and landscapes. For me, it was also a chance to deepen my commitment to sustainability through an unexpected avenue: thrifting.

    I explored the world of vintage finds while I was overseas and found not only interesting pieces to add to my wardrobe but also a strong connection to sustainability. Shopping at thrift stores evolved from a pastime to a deliberate decision to lessen my environmental impact while showcasing my personal style. I reduced waste while also extending the life of my clothing by using eco-friendly care practices, eco-friendly repair techniques, and thoughtful selection. This conscious consumption not only changed the way I choose to dress, but it also strengthened my commitment to sustainability and made it a seamless part of my daily existence.

some of my precious findings

Exploring Sustainable Fashion Abroad

    As I embarked on my semester abroad journey, I made it a mission to immerse myself in the local culture and lifestyle. Along the way, I stumbled upon thrift stores tucked away in charming alleyways and bustling marketplaces. What began as a casual browsing soon turned into a passionate pursuit of sustainable fashion. With each thrifted find, I felt a sense of connection to the community and the environment. From vintage dresses with intricate detailing to quirky accessories that added flair to my outfits, every piece told a story. I found joy in the hunt, scouring racks of pre-loved items in search of hidden gems that resonated with my personal style. Thrifting became more than just a means of acquiring clothing; it became a conscious choice to support a circular economy and reduce textile waste. By giving new life to gently used garments, I felt empowered to make a positive impact on the planet while expressing my creativity through fashion.

"Second hand in Berlin" was my favorite store

Caring for Clothes with Consciousness

    During my semester abroad, I went through a lot of thrift stores looking for sustainable fashion, but I also really tried to take good care of the clothes I already had. By implementing basic habits such as fixing small rips, using eco-friendly laundry soap, and letting clothes air dry rather than using a dryer, I was able to prolong the life of my clothes and lessen my impact on the environment. I became even more committed to sustainable fashion after adopting a mindset of mindful consumption. I enjoyed reviving old favorites and learning about the stories each item held.

building a new community

Building a Community of Like-Minded Individuals

    Another rewarding aspect of my sustainable fashion journey abroad was meeting and connecting with like-minded individuals. Through local workshops, swap events, and online forums, I found a community of people who shared my passion for eco-friendly fashion. These interactions were incredibly inspiring, as we exchanged tips, resources, and personal stories about our sustainable practices. This sense of community not only enriched my experience abroad but also provided a support network that motivated me to continue my sustainable journey long after returning home. Engaging with others who valued sustainability reinforced the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change.

    Join me in embracing sustainable fashion by incorporating thrifted finds into your wardrobe. Whether you're a seasoned thrifter or new to the world of secondhand shopping, every purchase makes a difference. Let's redefine fashion as a force for good and embark on a journey towards a more sustainable future, one thrifted treasure at a time. Share with us your favorite thrifted piece in the comments!

THRIFTING PAPER AFTER YOU THRIFTED THREADS

by Malak Tarek     

Your wallet is not particularly as fond of your hobbies as you might be. The  worse the economic situation, the less opportunities you find to indulge yourself. You're left with more illegal and unethical options, unable to show sincere support to your favorite writers. 

    In Egypt, reading has become a privilege and I'll admit, I myself have went for many unethical ways to keep my hobby, what else can a sixteen year old do, who has no way of finding extra sources of money? It is very fortunate that the mold is starting to change, more people are more open to new and better ways to make things accessible for everyone and with the help of the Internet, you are ready to know the secrets too.

    Now, I myself have been apprehensive of the idea of buying used books. After all, I liked fresh books, with no broken spines, with pristine covers and being the first owner. Yet, I think at some point on social media, used books started to appeal to my eyes. The yellowish pages, the older cover designs, the stack of books that look well-loved, dare I say, maybe even the few words written in the margins. 

     A year ago, when my friend told me he got used books because he's trying to avoid illegal books, I was iffy about the idea. Now, I am on a hunt for used books. Perhaps this has become an even more veracious hunt because of my anger that knock-off books look bad on my shelves, the covers tilted, the spines ignored, the fonts ugly. I was done with this, and I decided if I can't afford original books then I will go for used original ones. 

  

My Journey to Treasure Hunting and Sustainable Style

 My Journey to Treasure Hunting and Sustainable Style

by Rahaf Essam

  One particular trip to the Cairo flea market stands out in my memory as a life-changing experience. I stumbled upon a vintage leather jacket that caught my eye, and as I tried it on, I felt a surge of confidence and empowerment. This simple purchase sparked a newfound love for thrifting and unique fashion pieces, leading me to explore my personal style and embrace individuality. Thrifting has since become more than just a hobby; it has become a way for me to express myself creatively and authentically.

  Wearing that leather jacket gave me a newfound confidence and sense of individuality. It became a staple in my wardrobe, elevating my everyday outfits and making me feel like a trendsetter. The compliments I received boosted my self-esteem and encouraged me to further explore my personal style through thrifting.

From Hobby to Lifestyle: How Thrifting Became My Sustainable Style Statement

In a world dominated by fast fashion and fleeting trends, there lies a hidden gem - the art of thrifting. For me, what started as a mere hobby quickly blossomed into a profound journey of self-discovery and sustainability.

Thrifted fashion transcended beyond a mere hobby for me, evolving into a profound means of self-expression intertwined with sustainability. Each vintage find became a canvas for my personal style, allowing me to curate outfits that reflected my unique identity. Beyond the thrill of discovering one-of-a-kind pieces, I found solace in knowing that my fashion choices were environmentally conscious, contributing to a more sustainable future. Through thrifted fashion, I not only adorned myself with timeless garments but also embodied a deeper ethos of mindful consumption, where every purchase echoed a commitment to reducing waste and embracing individuality.

Moreover, thrifted fashion became my silent protest against the environmental toll of fast fashion. By embracing pre-loved clothing, I not only reduced my carbon footprint but also contributed to a more sustainable future. Every purchase became a small step towards combatting the throwaway culture that plagues our planet, proving that style and sustainability can indeed go hand in hand.

From Consumerism to Consciousness: How Thrifting Rewired My Mindset

  Thrifting not only transformed my wardrobe but also my mindset. It taught me the value of sustainability and creativity in fashion. I began to appreciate the stories behind each pre-loved piece I found, cherishing the history and uniqueness they brought to my style. This experience sparked a passion for sustainable fashion that continues to shape my choices and lifestyle to this day.

  Join me on a transformative journey towards sustainable fashion! Together, we can embrace the power of thrifting to not only redefine our wardrobes but also reshape our mindset. Let's explore the endless possibilities of second-hand treasures, reduce our environmental footprint, and celebrate the beauty of conscious consumption. Join the movement today and be part of the change towards a more sustainable future!