In the colourful chaos of Goa’s flea markets and the scroll-worthy pages of Instagram thrift stores, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Goa’s Gen Z isn’t just shopping they’re storytelling. Through every second-hand jacket and reworked skirt, they’re crafting a narrative that’s equally expressive and ethical. Across Goa, college students are not just wearing second-hand clothes, they are selling them too. The rise of local thrift pages, curated racks at pop-ups, and Instagram drops are becoming the new norm.
Thrift as a voice of identity and rebellion
“Fashion is a tool for change and expression and even rebellion whether to show class or revolt,” says Naomi Remedios, a student studying BBA who also owns a thrift page on Instagram. “Everything that we wear shows what we think and what we are, whether consciously or subconsciously,” she adds.
On college campuses, the fashion scene is shifting fast. Thrift pop-ups now share space with food stalls, and DIY upcycling workshops draw more buzz than fast fashion sales. Clothes once discarded now hold new meaning they’re revived, repurposed, and re-loved.
A budget-friendly canvas for Gen Z's creative expression
“Gen Z is using thrifted clothes to show their style in a creative way they like mixing different pieces from different eras to make unique outfits,” says Megha Dhupdale, a Psychology student. She adds, “Many also enjoy customising their clothes, like cutting or adding details. Thrifting is also very affordable, it depends on the locality which is important to a lot of them.”
Styling as storytelling and sustainability
“Thrifted fashion is one of the most exciting avenues for creative expression today. As a model, wearing garments from so many designers, I’ve come to appreciate how styling isn’t just about wearing the newest collection it’s about the art of transformation,” says fashion model Charlaine Delilah Heredia.
Creating new outfits from thrifted pieces pushes boundaries, mix eras, and give garments a second life. It’s sustainable, personal, and often results in the most unique looks. “I truly believe thrift fashion challenges us to be more intentional and resourceful and that’s where real style begins,” says Charlaine.
Style with substance: Fashion meets responsibility
With climate change conversations getting louder and the truth behind fast fashion harder to ignore, Gen Z is dressing with intention. They’re rejecting the idea that new is better, and embracing clothes that reflect not just their style, but their values.
A conscious shift from
trends to expression
“We’re not just shopping differently, we’re thinking differently,” says 20-year-old Sasha Naik, a Biotech student. “Wearing thrifted clothes is empowering. It gives you an opportunity to explore, create, and express through fashion.”
Thrift culture encourages individuality, reducing the pressure to keep up with fleeting trends. Each piece has a past, and when reimagined by young hands, it gains a new story.