Need fresh threads? Try UBDepop
On college campuses where styles switch fast, the hunt for vintage gold in the form of clothing has become more than a hobby, it’s a culture.
Whether that’s digging through the bins at Goodwill or scrolling eBay listings, young bohemians are always looking for a new look to rep. Shopping second hand is one of the fastest growing markets for Gen-Z fashionistas, and it is only getting more popular as internet trends keep shifting. Students are always looking for pieces that help them stand out, and secondhand fashion is not only affordable, but also a way to build a wardrobe that feels original.
At the University at Buffalo, that culture continues to grow through UBDepop, a campus-based extension of the popular resale platform Depop
For the unfamiliar, Depop is one of the most well-known online marketplaces used to sell clothing second hand. Items such as vintage band merchandise, discontinued brands or unique outfits are littered throughout; giving users the chance to curate a wardrobe that feels entirely their own. Early this year, the platform announced a partnership with UB; making way for a campus-driven extension of the app that brings the resale culture directly to students.
While accessibility can be tough, especially with the occasional scalper ruining the fun, UBDepop brings the shop to you.
Since their launch at the university, UBDepop has slowly built its presence on campus through a series of student-focused pop-ups across campus. In their third overall event, students were able to experience an in-person thrift store tucked in the back of Silverman Library. Rows of clothing covered study tables as curious students piled into study room number 15. While Silverman is known to produce more noise than a typical library, the usual softened conversations were replaced by bustling rhythms of steps going into the pop-up. Y2K-style baby tees, oversized crewnecks and vintage denim were just a few of the items that were available.
One added incentive has helped attract even more interest: students who create a Depop account through one of the events receive a free tote bag. While supplies vary by event, the giveaway has become a popular bonus for first-time users looking to join the platform and leave with something extra.
Beyond the clothes, the event demonstrated just how much UB students enjoy events that tap into the intrigue and trends of their generation.
The novelty of the pop-up created a brief sense of community for the people fumbling to find a price tag. The accessibility of the event also played a role. Students heading to class or finishing a study session could wander in without planning their entire day around it. For those without transportation to off-campus thrift stores, the convenience made all the difference.
For an app that can make online shopping feel solitary, UBDepop briefly transformed resale into a shared, in-person moment. For some, the thrill of the find is even better when it happens offline.
