40) thredUP's Brand Director on revolutionizing secondhand shopping and helping fashion go circular

With the fashion industry today being extremely wasteful, what are some positive trends we can feel hopeful about? What can we learn from how thredUP was able to revolutionize the experience of second-hand shopping, from it being viewed as unpleasant to fun and desirable?

 

Erin Wallace, Brand Director of the world's largest secondhand clothing and consignment store thredUP, shares her wisdom with you today.

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

[3:20] Something that shocked Erin about sustainable fashion. 

[6:26] Kaméa: "What was your biggest takeaway in terms of what it takes to establish a brand on a national scale?"

[7:50] What Erin says has led to the de-stigmatization of thrifting and second-hand clothing for consumers.

[10:15] Kaméa: "How do you personally stay organized with all of these different departments you oversee?"

[11:27] Erin's thoughts on the key to creating a loyal customer following.

[11:57] Kaméa: "What's been essential to thredUP starting from ground zero to establishing itself as the leading secondhand online shop?"

[12:49] A few mistakes Erin sees eco and socially-driven brands making that hold them back.

[14:22] Erin: "A lot of us care a lot about the environment and sustainability, and we also love the fun of shopping and getting dressed every day. Those don't have to be mutually exclusive."

[14:35] Erin's advice for eco-driven entrepreneurs today 

[17:12] Kaméa: "What are some of the latest insights into secondhand shopping that have surprised you?"

[17:55] Erin: "We really feel like [secondhand shopping] is on the verge of becoming mainstream..."

[21:57] Kaméa: "If you were the Brand Director of the entire sustainability movement, what would you focus on to grow it from being a niche to attracting everybody?"

 

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