Thrifting With Friends offers a sustainable alternative to new clothing.(Courtesy of Julia Chorun for The Fordham Ram)

“Dive into a treasure trove of affordable finds, all for a fraction of the price!” “Thrifting with Friends,” a Bronx-based community builder, is bringing a new trend to the city: thrifting pop-ups. But beautician Melissa Jane’s wardrobe venture isn’t just an opportunity to revamp your closet at a bargain, it’s a chance to connect with like-minded fashionistas who could be living right next door. 

Finding a personal style, ethically and consciously, is more easily achieved independent of what stores push. The Bronx’s “Thrifting With Friends” initiative is a shining example of how second-hand style can be dictated in a growing market by following your own style instincts and being in a community of people whose only interest is to help you feel and look your best. 

Last weekend, only a block away from Yankee Stadium on 861 Gerard Ave., Jane, known to her clients and friends as Fairy Juice Lover, opened a one-day thrift store. She found the space through a friend who hosts art galleries and ‘sip and paints’ throughout the week, and when there was an opening, Jane rented it out. She and her team filled it with gently used clothing, accessories, books and treats for men, women and children of all identities and sizes. However, her main goal was to fill a small space with fashion-loving friends and neighbors who would use it to bond over a common passion for style. Jane says her journey in second-hand styling began long before the pop-up, in a miscellaneous closet at her grandmother’s house. “As a kid, I always found myself with zero-to-no clothes,” she said. “I always struggled to find an outfit to go outside or to play with my friends. So I always depended on that closet to find something. And I always find, like a thrill with going in and being under pressure and finding that good fit.” She’s not the only one.

The pop-up opened at 2 p.m. and lasted until 7:30 p.m. and, right as it opened, the space was filled with Bronx residents. Some were fashion enthusiasts like Jane, and others were simply passersby who couldn’t miss the opportunity to find fantastic items without breaking the bank.  Upbeat music could be heard on the street, colorful, shining streamers covered the walls and racks and bins of second-hand clothing decorated the parameter. Some of the most eye-catching pieces, like a sparkling pink blazer suit set, hung on racks and sold for $10, while bin items were priced at only $3 each. Don’t be fooled. Just because the containers were filled to the top and clothes were packed tightly together, doesn’t mean there weren’t treasures waiting to be dug up in the bargain bins.

Inside were pieces like a “cottagecore” sage gown and a vibrant floral embroidered, black bustier. At the bottom of the bin was a red tulle maxi skirt, with Adidas trademarked stripes gliding down the sides, creating a hyper-feminine, athletic combination. The outerwear section ranged from vintage “on your mark” windbreakers to fur jackets and pink leather coats, while the back of the store was lined with statement pieces and ribbons. Accessories were laid out on the other side, showcasing heels, Crocs, prettily packaged jewelry and tradable gaming cards. For a social media flair and her photography-loving friends, Jane stationed a portable selfie light at the center of the store for the maximum “cosmo girl” aesthetic. 

Jane says arranging the shop structure and making her vision a reality came seamlessly. “I believe it was a form of a manifestation. You know, it happened so magical for me,” she added. “I just wanted to get rid of some stuff. I know I’m good to donate, but I know what they do after you donate. So I figured, why not? Mingle with your friends, have fun, network, build that bond and also declutter.” At check out, shoppers were met with smiles and conversion by Jane’s friends who contributed their clothes and labor to the shop. Friendships were made at the entryway as guests eagerly discussed their finds upon purchasing $1 cookies or $3 cocktails while Jane’s team gave styling tips. As the event flyer promised, it was pure “thrift treasure adventures and networking vibes!” 

Jane insists that at community-centered pop-ups like “Thrifting with Friends,” the word “used” becomes “pre-loved.” “You’re decluttering, you’re releasing old things,” she said, “but these things are also things that other people can want. I have this path where I can assist other women, other men as well, because I’m all-inclusive, to like, see their own power, because we’ve all been in a dark space, and to find the light is beautiful.” Find your inner light and connect with the vibrant spirit of the Bronx’s style community at more “Thrifting with Friends” events by keeping an eye on Jane and her team’s future endeavors.