Denim brand Diesel has launched a resale program and so far collected and re-conditioned some 900 jeans. Upon collection, the pre-owned jeans are shipped to a facility, washed and treated with Polygiene’s ViralOff and OdorCrunch technology, a combined treatment featuring anti-microbial and odor-resistant properties that the denim brand began using during the Covid-19 pandemic. The treatment helps mitigate the need for water- and energy-intensive home washing, further lowering the jeans’ environmental impact. Each restored pair features a red logo stamped across the back of the garment to indicate its resale status. A rating system provides insight into the condition of the garment ranging from one, or slightly worn to three, or like new.

The buyback program began in Italy, with plans to expand to other countries. For spring/summer 2022, Diesel has launched an evergreen collection of genderless garments backed by responsible manufacturing methods, including fabrics made with low-impact components such as organic and recycled fibers and finishing treatments using water- and chemical-reducing techniques.

The secondhand market has been growing and shows no signs of slowing down. Brands such as Levi’s, Madewell and Guess have followed the movement, each recently launching its own take on a resale program.