Overcoming the stigma surrounding the sharing and circulation of clothes within families and communities invites a powerful embrace of cultural resourcefulness. This shift—from viewing secondhand items as inferior to recognizing them as valuable treasures—requires us to move past shame and toward a mindset of acceptance and respect for the stories these garments carry.
In her article From My Mother’s Wardrobe: Why Wearing Hand-Me-Downs Is Better Than Buying Something Brand New, London-based fashion writer Ella Citron-Thompkins reflects on the deep emotional value embedded in secondhand clothing. She poignantly describes how each crease, hole, and stain in a hand-me-down tells the story of its previous owner, linking us to the past in ways that new, mass-produced items simply cannot. Studies show that the average piece of clothing is worn only 7 times before being discarded, contributing to the staggering global waste crisis—an estimated 92 million tons of textile waste is produced every year. By contrast, extending the life of clothes through reuse not only minimizes waste but also offers a sustainable alternative to the environmentally damaging fast fashion industry, which is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions.
Citron-Thompkins’ reflections serve as a reminder that hand-me-downs are not just a practical solution, but a rich cultural practice that challenges our current throwaway culture. In embracing secondhand clothing, we also embrace a more sustainable, mindful approach to fashion—one that values the memories stitched into every fabric and the wisdom of generations past.
“There’s something incredibly sentimental about wearing the exact same dress today that my mum wore in the 90s. Automatically, I feel connected to her and the experiences she had while wearing it.” This reflection from Ella Citron-Thompkins highlights a profound emotional bond that transcends the act of wearing an item of clothing—it’s a connection to family, memory, and the shared moments of the past. This perspective, however, is not unique to Ella. Around the world, the tradition of passing down clothing fosters a sense of continuity and connection that is undeniably powerful.
In the United States and the United Kingdom, the practice of passing down garments—often lovingly referred to as “hand-me-downs”—is a well-established tradition, offering both practical and sentimental value. In Australia, this tradition takes on a slightly different twist, known as “hand-me-overs,” a term that reflects the generosity and sharing inherent in the practice. Meanwhile, in India and South Africa, clothing finds new life as “pass-me-downs,” while in the Philippines, the culture of thrifting, often referred to as “ukay-ukay,” adds a touch of adventurous spirit to the process of reusing garments. In Japan, the concept of Mottainai—a principle rooted in respect for resources—urges against waste and champions the reuse and repurposing of clothing, symbolizing a deep cultural appreciation for sustainability.
Globally, these practices reflect more than just the passing of material goods—they represent an enduring connection to family history, cultural values, and the wisdom of using what we already have. Each culture, with its unique terminology and approach, underscores the universal human experience of finding meaning in the clothes we wear and the stories they carry.
From the friperies of France to Germany’s gebrauchtkleidung and Italy’s abiti di seconda mano, the global tradition of cherishing pre-loved garments spans cultures worldwide. In China, it’s 二手衣物 (Èrshǒu yīwù), and in Mexico, ropa de segunda mano reflects a shared appreciation for clothing that carries history and memory.
The hand-me-down culture, with deep historical roots, mirrors economic, social, and cultural dynamics across the globe. In medieval Japan, for instance, passing down kimonos was common, highlighting the value of textiles and craftsmanship. Similarly, in India, the practice of handing down clothing within extended families has been a long-standing tradition, driven by both economic practicality and a sense of familial connection.
During economic hardships like the Great Depression, hand-me-downs became a necessity, fostering a culture of resourcefulness and frugality. In these times, sharing clothing was not just a practical solution but a way to maintain dignity and solidarity within communities.
Across cultures and history, the passing of garments is more than an exchange of goods—it reflects sustainability, community, and respect for both family heritage and the environment.
In the 19th century, as industrialization progressed, the practice of passing down clothing became increasingly common among both affluent and working-class families. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century, during the post-World War II period of rationing and economic constraints, that the term “hand-me-down” gained widespread use.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the countercultural movement embraced thrift store shopping and hand-me-downs as acts of rebellion against mainstream consumerism. This shift celebrated the individuality of pre-owned items and the DIY ethos, promoting sustainability long before it became a mainstream concern.
Today, this tradition continues to influence attitudes toward clothing reuse, with growing interest driven by environmental awareness and the drawbacks of fast fashion. The historical and cultural significance of passing down clothes shapes contemporary views on sharing, sustainability, and mindful consumption.
In My Mother’s Sari by Sandhya Rao and Nina Sabnani, a young girl finds magic in her mother’s saris, describing them as “long like a train” and “filling the air with color.” Each sari becomes an imaginative entity, with one turning into a “river” and another into a secret hiding spot. The child’s cherished ritual of wrapping herself in the vibrant fabric ignites her dreams, and the book, with its enchanting illustrations, beautifully captures the textures, colors, and deep emotional bond between mother and child—emphasizing the power of clothing to preserve memories and spark imagination.
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