In Singapore’s fast-evolving fashion scene, one unexpected platform has become the epicentre of secondhand style—Telegram. What began as a messaging app has transformed into a bustling digital marketplace, redefining the meaning of thrift shopping among the country’s youth.
Today, from curated Y2K finds to vintage Japanese streetwear, thousands of Gen Z and young millennials scroll, bid, and claim pre-loved fashion pieces within seconds—all through Telegram’s unique thrift channels.
From Charity Shops to Chat Drops: A New Era of Thrifting
A decade ago, thrifting in Singapore was simple: weekend visits to charity shops, flea markets, or boutique vintage stores. Well-loved institutions like Deja Vu Vintage and Dustbunny Vintage were among the few offering secondhand treasures.
But times have changed. The rise of sustainable fashion, social media culture, and digital convenience has reshaped how young people shop. Thrifting is no longer about rummaging through racks—it’s about community, curation, and connection.
Enter Telegram, where thrift channels have evolved into virtual malls. Each channel showcases curated “drops”—scheduled releases of pre-loved clothing that attract hundreds of eager buyers ready to claim items in seconds.
Why Young Singaporeans Love Telegram Thrifting
For many young shoppers, Telegram thrifting offers more than affordable fashion—it delivers personalized style discovery.
“The curations come from people who share my fashion taste,” said Chan Huiwen, 29, a media professional who found her first thrift channel earlier this year. “It’s convenient, fast, and I don’t have to dig through piles of clothes. The curated drops make it feel like shopping from a friend’s closet.”
Others love the mix of affordability and exclusivity. “Some channels start bids at just S$1 or S$5,” said Annette Chua, a 20-year-old student. “It’s exciting, and I’ve discovered brands I wouldn’t have known otherwise.”
The format combines the speed of e-commerce with the authenticity of community-based curation, something traditional resale sites can’t replicate.
The Rise of an Unlikely Fashion Platform
How did a messaging app become a fashion hub? It started with young sellers seeking an easier, faster way to connect with buyers. Telegram’s chat format, instant notifications, and scheduling tools fit perfectly with the “drop” culture popular among Gen Z.
Tyra Ng, 21, founded her channel Villainsloved in 2023 while studying and interning full-time. “I can sell fast and on the go—even from school,” she said. “Telegram lets me connect with people I’d never meet otherwise. Once, I saw someone wearing a dress I sold them—it felt surreal.”
Similarly, Matthew Tan and Desiree Chang, founders of the thrift brand Woofie, started their Telegram channel in 2021 before expanding to two physical stores. Their 6,000-member channel, Woofie Sales, lists higher-end curated pieces, while their shops focus on affordable fashion between S$5 and S$15.
“The reaction feature helps us see what styles people love instantly,” said Tan. “It’s market feedback in real time.”
Inside Telegram’s Drop Culture
What makes Telegram thrifting addictive is its “drop” system—a timed release of items that turns every sale into a mini event.
Sellers tease upcoming drops with sneak peeks, then release photos and prices in rapid sequence. Buyers rush to comment “mine” or bid within seconds. The fastest fingers win.
“I’ll take pictures the night before and let my subscribers know the schedule,” said Ng. “During the drop, it feels like a fun little event. I like adding funny captions—it gives the clothes personality and helps people connect.”
This system keeps buyers engaged and coming back. Some, like Chan, even dedicate entire Telegram folders to their favorite thrift channels and check them daily. “It feels like trying to get concert tickets,” she said. “But for clothes.”
Trending Styles and Labels on Telegram
While the items vary with each drop, certain aesthetics dominate the scene. Japanese fashion labels such as Cecil McBee and Liz Lisa are top sellers, along with lace camisoles and shoujo-inspired pieces that reflect Singapore’s growing interest in soft, feminine, anime-influenced fashion.
Trends evolve quickly. “It used to be Harley Davidson shirts, then Hollister and Abercrombie came back,” said Chua. “Every few months, something new blows up.”
The Community Behind the Clothes
Beyond the shopping rush, Telegram thrift channels foster genuine friendships. Sellers recognize returning buyers, and buyers form connections through shared styles.
“I once saw someone on campus wearing a full outfit I sold,” Ng said with a laugh. “We started talking and became friends.”
Many channels also support each other through “shoutout-for-shoutout” collaborations, helping small sellers grow their following without paid ads. “It’s a lot friendlier and easier to start than Instagram or Carousell,” said Danielle Tam, founder of D’s Closet, a thrift channel with over 5,000 followers.
Challenges of Online Thrifting
As with any online platform, Telegram thrifting comes with limitations. Sizing issues are the most common. “Sometimes I accidentally buy something too small,” said Chan. “Not every listing has full measurements.”
Sellers also face challenges balancing quality and effort. “We only list premium pieces on Telegram,” said Tan from Woofie. “It takes time to photograph, describe, and measure everything—but it’s worth it for the right audience.”
Tam, who began her channel to fund a concert ticket, has since expanded into physical consignment sales. “When school started, I moved to pop-ups,” she said. “But I still use Telegram to post updates and preview what I’m bringing to events.”
The Future of Telegram Thrifting in Singapore
Despite its grassroots nature, Telegram’s thrift community is growing rapidly. New sellers launch channels every week, and buyers are more engaged than ever.
“I think Telegram thrifting is here to stay,” said Chan. “It’s where most young people already are, and it’s so easy to use.”
Still, many agree that nothing replaces the thrill of in-person thrifting. “Trying clothes on and finding something amazing in real life still feels special,” she added.
For now, Telegram has become the perfect middle ground—part social network, part shopping app, and entirely community-driven. In a world of mass production and fleeting trends, this grassroots movement proves that fashion’s next big thing might just live inside your chat app.
