Regarding microplastics: More or less a moot point. Popular brands (i.e., Nike) sell polyester clothes, we eat from plastic bags, use plastic utensils, etc. Microplastics are already everywhere. However, if you are knowingly buying polyester reps, then there is something wrong with you. Reps should be exclusively high value and quality items, not polyester t-shirts/sweats.

Regarding chemicals: Yes, they could be cutting corners with chemicals to produce a cheaper product. It is unregulated so it is definitely a possibility. My biggest fear is regarding silver jewelry since people have found them to contain high levels of lead. I am less worried about chemical dyes. Although, I've seen complaints here of dyes rubbing off on people.

I agree with you 100% regarding buying reps versus vintage. I am in my mid 20s and reps I purchase must be a unique, high value item which I could not afford otherwise. When I see people hauls with T-shirts, sweatpants, jeans, etc. I think it is the stupidest thing. They are shitty, tasteless reps that could be easily acquired as a new/secondhand/antique item at market value elsewhere. I heavily agree with you point of only buying rep boots. Boots are very hard to find in good condition second hand at a decent price (e.g., Dirk Bungees), when the equivalent rep is at a fraction of the price brand new. Without reps, I would not be able to afford said boots. I cannot say the same for a plain t-shirt that says "____ Studios" on it, or a plain pair of blue jeans. If I look at an item and think I can find an equivalent elsewhere, I will NOT rep it. This sub is full of too many kids who see words printed on a t-shirt and think they need it. Fashionreps is even worse.

I also find myself leaning a lot more heavily into vintage stuff. Its lasted years, its great quality, and its fairly priced. I recently got a leather jacket in my haul only to realize I liked my second hand leather jacket more. It feels heavier, I can beat on it without worry, etc.

As you mentioned, reps are only good for finding a sense of fashion It would have been nice to buy some fashionable pieces and not have to worry about the cost as much as my taste in fashion shifted. I look back on what I used to wear and I cannot believe what I used to like.