古着(ふるぎ)

古着(ふるぎ) refers to secondhand or used clothing. It is neutral in tone — it does not imply the clothing is worn out or low quality.

Forms

古(ふる) (old, used) + 着(ぎ) (clothing, from 着(き)る "to wear"). Note the rendaku: 着(き) becomes 着(ぎ).

Common collocations

• 古着(ふるぎ)屋(や): secondhand clothing store
• 古着(ふるぎ)を買(か)う: to buy used clothes
• 古着(ふるぎ)を売(う)る: to sell used clothes

Cultural note

古着(ふるぎ) shopping is popular in Japan, especially among younger people. Famous areas include 下北沢(しもきたざわ) in 東京(とうきょう) and 堀江(ほりえ) in 大阪(おおさか). The term covers both affordable thrift items and curated vintage fashion.

Similar

• 中古(ちゅうこ): secondhand (for goods in general, not clothing-specific)
• 古本(ふるほん): used books (same 古(ふる)～ pattern)