Explore the meanings beyond motives behind second-hand clothing consumption practice: from the theory of practice perspective

Purpose

The consumption of second-hand clothing has gradually become a mainstream research topic within the framework of sustainable consumption. However, issues such as the widespread motivation-behavior gap, which are common in sustainable consumption, are also present in the research on second-hand clothing consumption. Researchers, from the perspective of the theory of practice within the Consumer Culture Theory framework, explore and summarize the richer construction of meaning in the practice of second-hand clothing consumption, beyond mere motivations or intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 39 respondents aged 20–70 years old in the UK. The data were analyzed using reflective thematic analysis.

Findings

This study identifies and summarizes the meanings of active choice and reflective lifestyle, co-created vintage, self-freedom, rebellion behind uniqueness, complicated sustainability, internal cycles based on emotional relationships and marginalization in second-hand clothing consumption. It reveals a more complex construction of meaning and practice characteristics behind different motivations in the practice of second-hand clothing consumption. These meanings provide a deeper understanding of consumers' practices in second-hand clothing consumption that goes beyond mere motivations.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the under-researched area of the construction of various symbolic meanings in the practice of second-hand clothing consumption. Firstly, the application of the theory of practice enriches the research dimensions and perspectives of second-hand clothing consumption and related fields. Secondly, the explanation of deeper meanings beyond motivations can, to some extent, bridge the motivation-behavior gap, presenting a richer and more authentic picture of second-hand clothing consumption. Lastly, the focus on the issue of consumption disposal during the research process also enriches the content of sustainable consumption research, enhancing the understanding of the complexity of sustainable consumption.