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Economica

Vol. 17 No. 1-2 (2026)
Articles

The complex examination of the second-hand clothing market from environmental, consumer, economic, and commercial perspectives

Published:
2026-07-01
DOI Linkhttps://doi.org/10.47282/economica/2026/17/1-2/16261
Author
Kata Bélteki-Erdős
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pdf (Hungarian)
Keywords
sustainability fashion industry used clothing circular economy consumer behavior
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kata Bélteki-Erdős

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How To Cite
Selected Style: APA
Bélteki-Erdős, K. (2026). The complex examination of the second-hand clothing market from environmental, consumer, economic, and commercial perspectives. Economica, 17(1-2), 141-154. https://doi.org/10.47282/economica/2026/17/1-2/16261
Abstract

Over the past decade, the dynamic expansion of the second-hand clothing market has redefined the position of both the global and local fashion industries. Heightened societal expectations regarding sustainability, the growing critique of fast fashion, and the rapid advancement of online marketplaces have collectively contributed to the recognition of second-hand apparel as a socially accepted and economically significant alternative. The trade in pre-owned garments has emerged as one of the most frequently cited illustrations of the circular economy, as it facilitates resource conservation, reduces textile waste, and yields substantial environmental benefits. Nevertheless, second-hand purchasing should not be regarded solely as an environmental matter; it also warrants examination from economic, social, and psychological perspectives. Consumer motivations are shaped by a variety of factors, including affordability, commitment to sustainability, and the pursuit of fashion individuality. The present study seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the second-hand clothing market through five key dimensions: environmental impacts, consumer behavior, economic implications, online versus offline shopping channels, and the interrelations between the global and the Hungarian markets.

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