It has become clear over the last few years that our economy is in bad shape, and that its effects reach past Wall Street, directly to the American people. Across the country, people are devising ways to cut back on spending. Some who previously lived comfortably are struggling to make it to the end of a month. Other families are ­cutting back to one car, taking cheaper vacations close to home, and eating out less often. But only a few are making an ­effort to donate to, and shop at secondhand stores – a choice that can really make a difference in our communities, and our world.

People still purchase clothing at the mall, even as prices grow increasingly high. Often a person's self-image is based on his or her clothing, and many devote a significant amount of money to this each year. As of 2007, the average American family spent $1,760 per year on clothes. Taking inflation into account, this number is sure to have increased, and will continue to do so.

Beyond the obvious cost factor, shopping for used clothes helps reduce textile waste, which adds considerably to the ­contents of landfills. The Council for Textile ­Recycling estimates that used clothing stores have saved 2.5 billion pounds of discarded clothes from being dumped into landfills. Still, that 2.5 billion pounds is only 15 percent of clothing waste. We customarily recycle paper, cans, and bottles. Why not take this practice a step further by recycling used clothes?

Purchasing used clothing also benefits the community by supporting the charities that operate these secondhand stores. These include Goodwill, which works to provide employment opportunities, and Discovery Shops, which support the American Cancer Society. Donating clothes to these stores can also be a great way of reducing waste and supporting charity, too.

When it comes to purchasing clothes at secondhand stores, the economic benefits are clear. But many people make a direct connection between the quality and price of clothing. If a shirt fits, looks good, and lasts a long time, then it was probably more expensive. However, ugly styles or poorly made items aren't what's keeping people from purchasing more economical used clothes. Instead, it is snobbery and pride. Of course, many may simply not have thought of buying secondhand.

I have personally ­experienced the attitude toward secondhand clothing in my own ­middle-class, California neighborhood. I have been complimented on a shirt, and when asked where I purchased it, receive puzzled or even disdainful looks when I answer Goodwill. Contrary to what many believe, used clothing stores carry many current styles, as well as interesting retro pieces. Though I personally prefer an eclectic look, I have friends with a more mainstream taste who always find something they like at a secondhand store. This makes sense for teens and children who outgrow clothes long before they wear out; spending lots of money on clothing simply doesn't make sense. There are always exceptions, when shopping at conventional stores may be necessary, but the vast majority of clothing is readily available secondhand.

Since I have begun to shop at secondhand shops, I have noticed that the typical customer is no longer in need, but rather families who have been ­affected by the economy. Though the reason behind this change is unfortunate, the result can be positive. Once people see beyond the stigma attached to thrift stores, they can begin to appreciate the many benefits of shopping environmentally and ecologically smart.