survey by the National Association of Resale & Thrift Shops, slightly more than 64% of stores had an average increase in sales of 31%. Lovell also says there’s a resurgence of people mending their clothes and accessories before replacing them with new items. “For example, shoe repair shops have noticed an increase in business, as consumers bring in their shoes to be repaired as opposed to purchasing a new pair,” she explains. “Overall, trends in consumer buying behaviors change with what is going on socially, politically, and economically in the world. The fashion industry just needs to ride out this wave and consumers will soon be spending in excess as before,” Lovell opines. However, some say the recession has prompted them to become more responsible in their spending habits – a change that could be permanent for many consumers.