What’s driving the shift from buying new to repairing clothes and shoes?

[Lily.M]

I’ve noticed my searches for things like “how to repair clothes” or “local shoe cobbler” have shot up this year, and I’m wondering if others are seeing the same shift in their own habits. It feels like a move away from just buying new things, but I’m not sure if it’s just my bubble or something bigger.

[EdwardNW]

Yeah I did the same last year. I started mending jeans, sewing patches on a jacket, and it actually worked. It saved a few bucks, but it took patience and a lot of practice with the needle and thread.

[AdamSM]

Not sure if it's a bigger trend or just my circle. I see more people talking about thrift shops, repairs, but then we still end up buying quick replacements when something wears out.

[CamilaS]

Maybe the real issue isn’t repair interest so much as product quality—are we trying to fix things because they’re not durable enough, or because new options are just not appealing?

[Jonathan_M]

I did look for a local cobbler and there were a few, but the quotes were steep and the timing was slow. I ended up buying a cheap replacement online and telling myself it’s a learning curve, then moved on.