Could thrifted treasures be the answer to generational unity?

For better or worse, shopping, including thrifting, is an integral part of American culture. What is deemed valuable among Americans differs widely, though. Is it the cost, the memories, or the craftsmanship? For two generations separated by a span of anywhere from 33 to 51 years, the answer may be all three.

The catalysts of the golden age of thrifting

The Baby Boomer generation has lived through some of post-modern history’s most pivotal moments — Vietnam, Woodstock, contraception, and ABBA, to name a few. They grew up in the post-WW2 era of suburban expansion, rising wages, and overall optimism. They happen to be the wealthiest generation now facing a new pivotal moment: relocation and downsizing. 

Boomers are on the move to condos and smaller homes, and so are their belongings. Having lived full lives, most in this generation have already retired. For those choosing to downsize, it means not only leaving behind stuff but also history. The boomer generation either inherited quality heirlooms from their parents or purchased pieces that were made to last. This means decades of formal dining sets, heirloom china, vintage textiles, and wooden entertainment centers are being donated or found at estate sales and consignment shops. 

How Gen Z are benefiting from the thrifting boom

While the baby boomer generation made their names through long careers, resilience, and hard work, Gen Z finds themselves in an increasingly virtual world. The unexpected connection point for these two generations may be in the most unlikely of places — the antique store. 

Every generation agrees nothing is made like it was back in the day. Gen Z may be opting for used items because they’re disillusioned with the cheap quality of big box retailers and rising prices. Or perhaps, they want eco-friendly options and embrace the idea of reusing, repurposing, and recycling in lieu of always trashing and buying new. Whatever the reason, Gen Z tends to frequent the thrift store just as much as their Baby Boomer grandparents. In fact, over half of Gen Z would opt for buying used over brand new. And now, they are about to experience the golden age of thrifting.

All that sterling silver, quality furniture, original artwork complete with frames, and high-quality, midcentury modern upholstery can’t fit in a small retirement condo. These high quality pieces are finding new homes with younger generations. 

Are thrifted treasures key to generational unity?

The couch is never just a couch. It’s the shoulder you cried on when mom held you close the night you were broken up with. That wicker bench represents playing cards with your late grandma in the breezeway when spring subtly turned into summer. That pool table anchored late nights of drinks and laughs with your cousins that seemed routine and endless at the time. Now, imagine generations of families sharing these types of memories across the country. 

This is the true reason we can’t part with sentimental items that are taking over our cupboards and bookshelves; they help us hold onto the memories, feelings, and people we love. They offer a reliable connection to the comfort of home in a world that never stops changing. They are tangible pieces of life lived in an increasingly virtual world.

The memories held by thrifted treasures may offer the key to generational unity in a world too quick to divide generations. It’s easy to turn a legacy item into a thrifted treasure by imagining who an object belonged to previously. What was their story, and how do I fit in? Herein is found the humble realization that each of us is one stitch in the fabric of a human existence made up of generations of souls that came before us. What a privilege to give a well-loved piece new life and continue the story where someone else left off! 

How to find thrifted treasures for yourself 

If you’re on the hunt for a slice of intergenerational history, there are plenty of places to look. 

• Military supply stores like Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, often have all sorts of furniture, clothing, and even uniforms. I’ve traveled with a military backpack while flying overseas; you can’t beat all the little pockets and the durability. 
• If you’ve already run out of paper, erasers, and glue sticks, check out your local gently used arts and crafts store for affordable supplies. These stores offer just about everything from sewing materials for Halloween costumes to mattes for frames. 
• Estate sales, garage sales, used record stores, antique malls, and local Goodwills or private thrift shops are great, and more fun with family or friends in tow. Make a list of things you want to find or need before heading out for a day of thrifting. Make it a scavenger hunt for kids to find vintage books or unique copies of beloved favorites at home. Keep your eyes open for religious statues or art that needs rescued. Collect Catholic medals to put on a charm bracelet.

History rarely announces itself today; you have to be willing to uncover it. Your local thrift store may have all sorts of hidden stories and memories waiting to be discovered and given new life.