Decatur Goodwill to host third annual National Thrift Shop Day Fashion Show

By Hannah E. Jones

Between targeted ads, quick-buy options and same-day shipping, it’s increasingly easy to purchase on a whim. But with textiles as the fourth-most discarded material in landfills, according to the EPA, folks should think twice before buying something new.

National Thrift Shop Day is Aug. 17, encouraging folks to reduce and reuse by shopping secondhand. To celebrate, the folks at Goodwill of North Georgia are preparing for their third annual National Thrift Shop Day Fashion Show.

Next Wednesday, the Decatur store, located at 2201 Lawrenceville Highway, will be converted into a runway. Thirty models will take the stage to showcase outfits curated from the second-hand store by six local stylists: Stylishly Vintage, The House of Thrift Boutique, Colorfully Thrifted G, Melinda Foster, Smoot Avenue and Jass Is Serving.

The local style influencers will be available for a meet and greet after the show, sharing tips for putting together a thrifted look.

All outfits featured on the runway were found in the Goodwill store. (Photo courtesy of Goodwill of North Georgia.)

“The influencers picked their models, and they’ve been working together to shop and select the looks together,” Communications Manager Stevie Seay said. “[Afterward, visitors can] speak to them about how they got into the thrifting scene, how they went about choosing each look and any tips and tricks to find really good pieces in thrift stores.”

The outfits styled for the runway will be available for purchase afterward, and from 6. to 8 p.m., customers spending over $25 will get a 25 percent discount.

Visitors should also don their best thrifted look; the winner of the “Best Dressed” contest will receive a $25 gift card.

The event’s proceeds will support Goodwill’s Career Centers and overall mission to help people find jobs and careers. Last year alone, the folks at North Georgia’s 14 career centers helped 16,000 residents find work, more than any other Goodwill.

“I really hope folks walk away inspired,” Seay said. “There are so many issues with fast fashion and environmental waste, so I hope people open their eyes to the possibilities when it comes to thrifting. Really, we’re honing in on this National Thrift Shop Day and creating excitement, awareness and inspiration for thrifting.”

If you’re interested in attending Goodwill’s National Thrift Shop Day Fashion Show, click here to register.