a ‘catch and release’ in the thrifting world is when a shopper finds an item, appreciates it, and decides not to purchase. rather, leave it behind for another more-excited thrifter to stumble upon and take home. a popular trend on social media, such as instagram and tiktok, is sharing these particularly interesting pieces before users and the pieces part.
¿ what are the reasons behind finding a cool-ass piece at the thrift store and choosing not to buy it ?
there are many reasons why a shopper might choose not to purchase the item they loved off a shelf
- the piece is ill-fitting
- cosmetic damage or damage beyond personal repairing abilities
- unnecessary -$$ at the time (hey, that $2.99 ceramic duck smoking a cigarette is worth it just not today)
- no vehicle or (thrifting hoarders gasp with me) home space
- a photo is enough
- knowing that someone somewhere will be happier if they found it
- the item can be remade to the shopper’s specifics
i thrifted this top in the last year. when i saw it on the rack i had a primal instinct to pounce on the soft pink velvety corset top. it was visibly for a small-waisted person. alas, i knew though i held on to a scant amount of hope that these sexy, strong shoulders (enough to make a middle school principal weep on their knees) would not allow zipper closure.
so i bought the top. i tried on the top. and the top will be for sale as the prophecy goes. it’s okay to like pretty things. it’s okay to be selfish. it’s good to know when to let go.
update to come
you’re on a pretty cool corner of the internet :+)) welcome. catsup magazine is a satirical fashion magazine bringing you what may cross my mind
