Fashion with a Second Life: Why We Started ARXIU320
Every piece of clothing has a story. Yet far too often, those stories end too soon, because fashion has become too fast. Today, the fashion industry is one of the most polluting in the world, producing more CO₂ than international aviation and shipping combined. Every year, the world produces more than 100 billion garments, far more than we could ever need. Yet, much of it is worn only a handful of times before being discarded, contributing to overflowing landfills and polluting ecosystems.
Every piece of clothing has a story. Yet far too often, those stories end too soon, because fashion has become too fast.
Moreover, beyond the waste, the production of new clothes is resource-heavy: one cotton T-shirt can require the same amount of water as one person drinks in two and a half years, while synthetic fabrics shed microplastics into our rivers and oceans. Plus, behind the labels, many workers are still underpaid and exposed to unsafe conditions. Sounds crazy, right? This, unfortunately, is the true cost of fast fashion, and it’s why change is needed.
Today's clothing system puts pressure on resources, pollutes the environment, and creates negative societal impacts.
Image source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation, A new textiles economy: Redesigning fashion’s future, (2017)
Why Second-Hand Makes a Difference
Second-hand shopping is one of the simplest ways to change this story. Every purchase from ARXIU320 helps to slow fashion’s fast cycle, making each choice a meaningful step toward a better industry. Every pre-loved piece that finds a new home helps cut emissions, save water, and prevent unnecessary waste. For us, sustainability isn’t merely an abstract idea; it is a practical choice woven into every rack and rail in our store.
At ARXIU320, we carefully curate timeless, high-quality pieces, bringing together elegance, uniqueness, and responsibility. Some fast fashion items may not necessarily do all three. Our collection proves that fashion can look good, feel good, and do good, all at once.
And it’s not just about reducing harm; it’s about celebrating value. Garments we showcase were crafted with greater attention to detail and stronger fabrics than their fast fashion counterparts today. By extending their lifespan, we’re not only keeping them out of landfills but also honoring the craftsmanship and care that went into making them in the first place.
The fashion resale market is one of the fastest-growing segments in retail, and projected to double by 2027.
The Bigger Picture
This shift toward second-hand is not a niche trend anymore. Globally, the resale and vintage market is projected to double by 2027, growing much faster than traditional retail. More people are realizing that pre-loved fashion is not only a smarter environmental choice but also a more personal way to express style. Instead of blending into mass-produced trends, our customers find pieces that reflect their individuality and values.
By choosing pre-loved, you’re not just refreshing your wardrobe, you’re reshaping the future of fashion.
Bringing It Back to ARXIU320
At ARXIU320, our mission is simple: to prove that fashion and responsibility can live side by side. With every visit, our customers discover garments that tell a story, save resources, and create less waste. And as a bonus? They take home unique pieces at a better price point, with the proven quality of clothing designed to last.
Second-hand shopping may seem like a small choice, but together, those choices add up to something powerful. By choosing pre-loved, you’re not just refreshing your wardrobe, you’re reshaping the future of fashion. So, if you’re ready to look great while doing good, and we know you are fashionable and care for the planet, you’re in exactly the right place, ARXIU320. Thank you for being here.