Let’s Talk Tariffs

At The Thrifted Capsule, we love a good deal, a great outfit, and a planet-friendly choice. But today, let’s shift the conversation to something you don’t usually see on style blogs: tariffs.

Yep, we’re going there.

Why? Because what happens at the policy level does affect your wardrobe—and your wallet. Especially if you, like us, are passionate about sustainable fashion, secondhand finds, and supporting ethical, conscious consumerism.

So, politics aside—what do tariffs actually mean for fashion?

Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods. When governments increase tariffs on clothing or textiles, the cost of bringing those items into the country rises. And that extra cost? It often lands squarely on you—the shopper.

But it’s not just fast fashion that feels the hit. These policies can also impact small businesses (like ours!) that rely on international thrift networks, sustainable fabric imports, or upcycled vintage pieces from around the globe. It’s another ripple in an industry already plagued by overproduction, overspending, and overpollution.

At The Thrifted Capsule, we curate beautiful, pre-loved pieces that help you express your style without contributing to the global fashion waste crisis. But even we’re not immune to shifts in trade policy. Higher import costs can affect everything from sourcing sustainable materials to transporting unique vintage items to partnering with small vendors outside the U.S.

That’s why it’s worth paying attention—because sustainable fashion isn’t just about what you wear. It’s about how it’s made, how far it travels, and who gets to tell its story.

While the majority of our finds are sourced right here in the United States, we think globally. We love unique, storied pieces like boro denim from Japan—crafted through the centuries-old art of visible mending—or reworked saris and khadi cloth from South Asia, turned into contemporary silhouettes. These are more than just fashion statements—they’re cultural treasures that celebrate sustainability, craftsmanship, and heritage.

Will new tariffs make these gems harder to access? Maybe. But here’s the good news:

Buying secondhand is one of the best ways to avoid tariff drama entirely.

When you shop pre-loved, you’re joining a circular economy—one that’s less dependent on fast-moving global supply chains and less vulnerable to the policy swings that disrupt them.

As prices for new, imported clothing continue to rise due to inflation and tariffs, shoppers are beginning to rethink what “value” really means. That $10 fast fashion tee? Not so cheap when you factor in quality, environmental cost, and now—tariffs.

And that’s where secondhand fashion steps in. Not just as a budget-friendly option—but as a better one.

At The Thrifted Capsule, we’ve always believed style shouldn’t come at the expense of the planet—or your paycheck. Every thrifted piece you wear tells a story, diverts waste from landfills, and gives beautiful clothing a second (or third) life.

Now, more than ever, people are waking up to the truth: secondhand isn’t second best. It’s smarter. It’s savvier. And it’s sustainable.

We’re here for this shift. We’re ready for it. And we’re so glad you’re part of the movement—because fashion should feel good in every way.