Sale of Winter Clothes Gains Momentum

Farhat Fatima

Islamabad: The sale of winter clothes, particularly second-hand items, has gained momentum in the federal capital, as evidenced by numerous stalls selling warm clothing in various areas. This rising trend of second-hand goods seems poised to surpass fast fashion in the coming years.

At weekly Sunday bazaars, heaps of second-hand quilts, blankets, and rugs are up for sale, offering a significantly cheaper alternative to new purchases. From gloves, woolen hats, mufflers, and pullovers to sweaters, shirts, and jackets, a wide array of wearables and accessories adorn shops and stalls. The bustling markets witness crowds, spanning from the economically challenged to the affluent, all haggling with retailers.

According to the World Economic Forum, the market value of second-hand clothing reached $24 billion in 2018 and is expected to double by the middle of the next decade. Muhammad Khan, a buyer at H-9 Weekly Bazaar, expressed concern over the rising prices of second-hand clothes, noting that what was once affordable has now led to frustration among buyers due to exorbitant rates.

Ahmed Ali, a second-hand clothing stall holder, highlighted the availability of imported clothes at economical prices, particularly benefiting the white-collar segment of society. Despite price hikes, he claimed they maintain minimal profits due to the price-hike situation in the country.

Contrary to assumptions, the second-hand shops attract not only the economically disadvantaged but also the middle and upper classes, some of whom swap designer clothing regularly. Economic challenges often drive people to opt for second-hand items.

In the quest for moderately priced warm clothes during the winter season, second-hand clothing remains a popular choice among poorer customers throughout the city.

Shop owners specializing in second-hand items assert that customers prefer buying clothes, handbags, furniture, and kids’ items from their stalls due to concerns over the quality of new branded items, which are often made with inferior materials and sold at higher prices.

The second-hand clothes available in these markets are primarily imported from China, the United States, and Canada, contributing to Pakistan’s 69th most imported product. Given Pakistan’s substantial young population (64% under 30 years) and 36.7 percent internet penetration, there’s potential for digitalizing this market and providing easy access to online stores.

Fayaz Khan, a digital expert, emphasized the gap between global trends seen on social media and the limited access young people have to these brands. He highlighted efforts to bring elements of sneaker culture to Pakistan at a fraction of the cost compared to brand-new counterparts.

Zara, a student and second-hand clothes stall holder at H-9 Bazaar, reiterated the availability of imported clothes at affordable prices, catering to a large segment of society.