Consumer perceptions towards second-hand undergarments in Zimbabwe: a case of Harare urban dwellers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate perceptions towards second-hand undergarment clothing products and their trade in Zimbabwe. Data were collected from the interviews done with 30 subjects in the age range from 18 to 40, living in Harare. Results showed that affordability, quality and design variety are the factors that affect second-hand undergarment trade. It was also found that women are the major consumers of these second-hand undergarments. The young aged stated that they purchase these second-hand undergarments as they find them as more fashionable items. According to this study there are perceived health risks associated with these second-hand undergarments though the respondents could not directly link them to certain diseases or ailments. Another finding was the lack of innovation and versatility by clothing manufactures in their product design process resulting in old-fashioned designs on the undergarments