EP14 - Redefining Fashion with Aidan Bartlett of Designer Wardrobe

In this episode of Sustainably Ever After, host Lilah McDonald chats with Aidan Bartlett, CEO of Designer Wardrobe – a fashion resale and rental platform that's redefining how New Zealanders interact with clothing. From its humble beginnings as a Facebook group to a thriving online marketplace and rental service, Designer Wardrobe has become a standout player in New Zealand's sustainable fashion movement. Aidan shares the evolution of the platform, the power of trust within a peer-to-peer community, and the conscious choices behind scaling a business with sustainability at its core. This episode offers valuable insights not only for fashion entrepreneurs but for any business owner looking to align profit with purpose. Key Takeaways: The backstory of Designer Wardrobe: How a simple community idea evolved into a national e-commerce platform for fashion resale and rental. Why a circular economy model is crucial for the future of fashion: How Designer Wardrobe empowers users to make more sustainable choices. The power of people: The importance of community trust, brand integrity, and customer experience in growing a peer-driven business. Start-up growth: How Aidan approaches leadership and decision-making in a fast-scaling, mission-led start-up. Fashion-froward mentality: The ways Designer Wardrobe reduces fashion waste and promotes affordability while staying true to modern style and convenience. Online marketplace: The digital innovation and operational design behind making fashion resale and rental seamless and scalable. Plus: Real-world advice for other purpose-led businesses on balancing commercial growth with environmental and social impact. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Designer Wardrobe: Website – designerwardrobe.co.nzFacebook – @designerwardrobenz Instagram – @designer.wardrobe.marketplace TikTok – @designer.wardrobe.mp