The clothing business is one of the largest and most lucrative industries in developed nations such as the United States.  3 $ flip flops, 6$ sweaters, 10$ pants: we constantly see advertisements for sales and bargains that seem too good to be true... and are they?
We've heard of the conditions of factories oversees, such as those providing products to GAP, Walmart, and Nike.  The manufacturing of clothing is a highly questionable process, and often done with no thought to sustainablility or creating a low impact on the environment.
These days, consumerism is the United States' trademark.  We want to shop, to haggle, to buy things because they're there, because they're cheap, or simply because they're cool.  We may donate to foreign charities, and wish to help the developing countries achieve a "better quality of life".  We want them to be able to have choices and products available to them, and the money to buy them with.
The truth is, if all the people in the world consumed as we do, none of us would exist.  The latest statistic I have heard is that the average American consumes 30 times more resources and products than the average citizen of a developing country.  30 TIMES MORE.  This blatent, excessive consumerism must stop.
If the United States and other developed countries wish to raise the poorest nations' standards of living, we must "lower" our own.  We have the luxury to exercise restraint in our shopping methods.  We have the responsibility to buy only what we need, rather than what we desire. 
The idea of shopping at thrift stores is often deemed repulsive.  It's "gross" to wear old clothes.  It's a "last resort for poor people".  Try visiting one, though, and you'll probably be surprised at the quality garments for sale.  Why buy clothing brand new when used clothes will suffice? 
Donate to charities like the Slavation Army.  Support the recycling and reusing of fabrics and textiles.  Believe in a second life for your own cast-offs.  Take advantage of bargains without supporting sweatshop industries. 
Please, America:  SHOP THRIFT STORE STYLE.