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This week we caught up with Kelley Sheenan, the founder and editor-in-chief of Peppermint Magazine, Garage Sale Trail's media partner for 2024.

Kelley talked about why buying and selling secondhand is so important and we got a sneak peek at some of her favourite pieces. Cute things incoming!

Q. Why is secondhand important?

Buying secondhand is immensely important! Overproduction in the fashion industry is an alarmingly increasing problem. According to the Fashion Transparency Index, produced by Fashion Revolution, there is currently enough clothing in the system to dress the next six generations. Combine that with the fact that Australians purchase 56 new clothing items each year on average, and yet 200,000 tonnes of clothing end up in landfill annually.

We live in a society where more is not enough; Tiktok hauls, celebrity style and the race to keep up with endless trend cycles are fueling the need for more, more, more.

Buying pre-loved helps bring circularity into the equation and reduces the production burden. It means that garments can be given a new life, and you get to find something unique and unexpected. Win win!

Q. What’s the most favourite pre-loved item you own?

I’m not sure I could name just one! Although I do have a vintage woven straw donkey head that I found in an op shop years ago, that takes pride of place on my wall. Who doesn’t need one of those?! 

I also have a collection of vintage white glass milk bottles with fun designs on them. My father-in-law, who has since passed, collected them too, which was a very random and lovely surprise. I’m so proud to have his bottles amongst my own finds.  

Q. What are you looking for on the trail this year?

I’m always on the hunt for ceramics – it’s my weakness! Vases, cups, bowls, planters… anything quirky or beautifully made. I love a good mis-matched ceramics cupboard! I’m also very partial to denim – it tends to last so well and outlives the trends. Records are also fun to find, we have a record player and it’s been so nice listening to old records. Nothing beats that sound.  

Q. Why are you partnering with Garage Sale Trail?

Garage Sale Trail is a combo of so many of the things that we also love and hold dear at Peppermint - reducing waste, shopping second-hand - and community! There’s nothing like a slow Saturday morning chat with a neighbour or new friend, browsing through some once-loved treasures looking for a new home and picking up a bargain!

About Peppermint Magazine

Peppermint is an Australian biannual print magazine and digital platform focused on style, sustainability, sewing and substance.

As a small, independent publication that champions ethical fashion, diversity, inclusivity, climate action, slow living, sewing, DIY and more, they tell real stories of people doing good in the world.

Visit Peppermint magazine's website to find out more.