ThriftCon Is For The Trend Averse

Video by Ethan Makela

ThriftCon is one of Denver’s biggest fashion events, so naturally, we had to hit the racks to see for ourselves. We intended to investigate the trends on display at this annual secondhand market, but found that the event was focused on the opposite. While the trends were surely there, the best pieces were upcycled, one-of-a-kind and unique, proving that ThriftCon is all about defying trends and embracing personal style.

ThriftCon activates cities across the nation, with Denver’s event featuring 100+ local and national vendors offering curated thrift and vintage. The weekend-long showcase brings the fashion community together in U.S. cities with activations, performances, panels and vendors focused on sustainable secondhand fashion.

Held at the National Western Complex’s new LVC (Livestock Center) last weekend, ThriftCon boasted a packed schedule of events for attendees to immerse themselves in fashion. While admission is ticketed, Thriftcon was a chance to find clothing, accessories and more that no one else would be wearing. With direct access to hundreds of vendors who thrift pieces to add their own spin or twist, this convention is an amusement park for fashion lovers.

While we were pleasantly surprised to see a lack of “trends,” or the garments that everyone is wearing at the moment regardless of location or occasion, we did see common themes across the vendors. The convention-style room was filled with reworked denim, patchwork in various formats, vintage tees, accessories galore and funky pieces that don’t even exist in some of the best vintage stores.

Our biggest takeaway? Next time someone tells you Denver doesn’t have a fashion scene, send them to the spaces where fashion can flourish. The street style is what really stole the show, with shoppers and attendees rocking their best looks. ThriftCon is not just an opportunity to expand your wardrobe; it’s the chance to showcase your personal style to an audience who will appreciate it.