Going to the market… for secondhand clothes

Chau Long is quieter than before.

In stark contrast to the bustling and lively scenes described, what we saw before us was an eerily quiet place. The stalls were sparsely open, and customers were few and far between, no longer bustling and noisy. This silence wasn't accidental. For the locals and small business owners here, the memory of the devastating fire on December 31, 2023, remains vivid. That fire destroyed 110 stalls, causing over 5 billion VND in damage, plunging many families into hardship, and forcing many businesses to close.

Ms. Kim Ngoc, a small business owner who has been associated with Chau Long Market for over 30 years, shared with emotion: “After the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy was already difficult, business was greatly affected, and then there was the big fire that year, many people couldn't survive. Luckily, my family's stall wasn't affected, otherwise it would have been very difficult!” Her words encapsulate a whole arduous journey, from the macroeconomic fluctuations of the pandemic to the unexpected disaster of the fire. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of making a living and the unwavering resilience of those who persevere in their profession.

At secondhand markets, customers can freely choose the items they need at reasonable prices.

Experiencing shopping here for the first time, Ms. Tran Anh Thu (37 years old, residing in My Thoi ward) couldn't hide her delight: "I've heard a lot about this 'secondhand' market, but only now have I come to shop. Indeed, it sells a wide variety of items, from shoes, clothes, bags, belts… at very reasonable prices, suitable for many people." Even during difficult times, Chau Long market still maintains its essence as a "secondhand paradise" with its diverse range of goods and affordable prices.

The enduring appeal of secondhand clothes.

Although Chau Long Market is going through a difficult period, the appeal of secondhand clothes in general remains undiminished. Many people still seek out these used items. So what makes us, from students to office workers, so captivated by these seemingly old items? First and foremost is the incredibly reasonable price. In these times of "tightening belts," owning good quality items, even designer brands, at a fraction of the price of new ones is an undeniable advantage. With a small amount of money, you can completely transform your wardrobe without worrying about the cost.

Moreover, secondhand clothing offers uniqueness and exclusivity. Each item tells a story, bears the mark of time. You might find a unique vintage jacket, a pair of jeans with an unusual fit, or a handbag from a previous decade that would be hard to find in any fashion store.

"Secondary clothing" at the online market…

Nowadays, to satisfy your passion for secondhand clothes, you don't necessarily have to go directly to traditional markets. The development of technology has opened up a new and promising shopping channel: online secondhand markets. With just a few clicks, you can easily browse countless options from shops on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or e-commerce platforms specializing in secondhand goods. This allows busy people or those living far away to access a rich and diverse selection of goods, saving time and effort on travel.

However, despite its convenience, buying secondhand clothes online also comes with risks and requires certain caution to avoid losing money and getting a defective product. Unlike shopping in person, you can't physically touch and feel the material or carefully check for minor flaws. Online images sometimes don't accurately reflect reality; they might be taken in ideal lighting conditions or have been edited, making the item look much more appealing than it does in person.

Ms. Thao Nguyen (residing in Long Xuyen ward), a seasoned online "second-hand clothing enthusiast," has compiled some valuable lessons: "I've bought a lot of second-hand clothes online, and while some items were incredibly satisfying, there were also times I was disappointed because the product didn't meet my expectations. My experience is to always ask the seller thoroughly about every detail, from the material and true color to the specific measurements. Don't hesitate to request more detailed photos/ videos from different angles. Prioritize reputable shops with many positive reviews, high follower counts, or clear return policies. If you decide to buy second-hand clothes online, don't ignore the comments and reviews from previous buyers – that's the most authentic source of information."

Comment (0)