Revival through Consumerism: Spitalfields Crypt Trust
LONDON, UK — Although I began thrifting in 2021 to jump in on the “trend,” it is now practically second nature for me. I have found countless golden pieces, and nearly half of the clothes I wear regularly are thrifted. I was therefore thrilled after my first weekend studying abroad in London. I noticed a pattern - there are second-hand shops covering entire streets; halfway through the semester, the city’s markets and vintage scene continue intriguing me. As of 2024, the United Kingdom has 4,194 second-hand enterprises.
Consumerism took off in Western Europe in the 18th century, being especially fueled by the Industrial Revolution. However, over-consumption causes major environmental damage and creates wedges between social classes. The 21st century now has an ever increasing focus on sustainability, especially among younger generations. 66% of Gen Z prioritize the environment over economic goals, while Baby Boomers sit at around 45%. Regardless, 65-70% of individuals across all generations are willing to change their lifestyle to combat climate change. Second-hand shopping is one method to combat climate change through consumerism; in recent years, it has seen a significant rise in popularity.
“Hi SCT" (Spitalfields Crypt Trust) mirror; Instagram handle for this SCT branch: @SCTaldgate
I personally started thrifting with some skepticism. Do the used goods have germs and stains? Is it good quality? What if odors remain after I wash my thrift finds? Such questions emphasize the stigma surrounding second-hand shopping. Second-hand shopping first gained popularity in the 1930s, during the Great Depression. Stigma resultantly built around the practice due to its relation to individuals’ poor financial state. However, the second-hand market has seen a revival in recent years, being expected to grow by 185% between 2019-2029. I decided to give thrifting a go when it blew up over social media, and I am very glad I did.
After arriving in London, I was on the way to purchase dorm supplies from Poundland, the British version of a dollar store, and noticed a nondescript storefront nearby with clothes displayed. Because I love clothes, I naturally paused. I soon realized “Spitalfields Crypt Trust” was a second-hand charity store.
I have now ventured to Spitalfields Crypt Trust several times, purchasing items each time. Not only does second-hand shopping come with a multitude of environmental benefits, but purchasing from Spitalfields Crypt Trust means donating to a charity.
Amanda Flor, a Spitalfields Crypt Trust employee, standing in front of the donations sorting room. Quality donations are sorted out from damaged ones and given a proper price tag.
On one such trip, I spoke to an employee, Amanda Flor, who has now worked at Spitalfields Crypt Trust for three and a half years. Amanda is originally from Brazil, sharing how she hopes Brazil may one day have second-hand shopping at the same proportion as London. When asked about the growth of second-hand shopping, Amanda explains social media’s impact. Influencer endorsements often provide publicity and push thrifting forward.
Speaking to Amanda, I also learned about the origins of Spitalfields Crypt Trust, the organization behind the chain of second-hand charity shops. Amanda explained how Spitalfields Crypt Trust was founded in 1965 to aid “people who are homeless and people who are recovering from drug addiction.” The Spitalfields Crypt Trust program at Acorn House lasts around six months, where residents receive treatment until they are clean. The program also offers training to reintroduce individuals to working. Spitalfields Crypt Trust started a charity store to raise money; they now have charity shops in seven locations.
As a lover of second-hand shopping myself, I was curious about what draws Amanda to it. Amanda shared how “first is the price, of course. Now we have a lot of fast fashion going on, but you can find a lot of unique pieces that are properly vintage. It gives a second chance to the clothes. Pass it forward; it is beautiful.”
Leopard-print jumper I purchased on my most recent trip to Spitalfields Crypt Trust.
Second-hand shopping is not only affordable, but diverts textiles from landfills, decreases demand for raw materials, and supports local nonprofits. Amanda emphasizes how donating to charity shops is a social impact opportunity, especially for individuals who do not have the capacity to volunteer in other ways. When asked to encapsulate her experience at Spitalfields Crypt Trust in one sentence, Amanda shares how she loves “the diversity. At my company, a lot of people are from different places. And the support as well. The diversity and support.” With my conscience much clearer and my wallet only a little lighter, I walked out of Spitalfields Crypt Trust that day with a leopard patterned jumper.
