Is Depop Being Gentrified? Sellers And Users Weigh In On The Debate

Since it was founded in 2011, Depop has played a major role in popularising second-hand clothing amongst its 21+ million users – 90 percent of whom it estimates are under the age of 26. Whether it’s oversized vintage Nike sweats, 90s baby tees, or pre-loved tennis skirts, buying used is bigger than ever as a new generation turns away from the environmental costs of fast fashion. Thanks in large part to Depop, youth shopping habits are truly heading in a more sustainable direction. However, keeping up with the latest trends (vintage ones included) can be costly – and the popularity of #Y2K, #rare and #vintage pieces have become justifications for noticeably higher prices than those usually found on the app. A bootleg spell out sweater might grant its wearer Insta baddie status, but it may also set them back upwards of £200. Or, perhaps a ‘vintage’ Brandy Melville piece for a measly £360 (despite the original costing under £50). These prices – which are set by sellers themselves, in what is essentially a huge unregulated free market – has not gone unnoticed by users. Read more at Dazed.