Sita Paudel’s Initiative to Promote Sustainable Fashion

Entrepreneur Sita Paudel has launched a thrift store named ‘Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya’ in Kathmandu’s Durbar Marg with the aim of promoting sustainable fashion. She also runs the ‘Aurora Foundation,’ which supports the health and education of children under 16 years old using profits from Soraya and donations from Pre-Loved Luxe. At Durbar Marg in Kathmandu, you will find an outlet called Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya. At first glance, the store’s decor and displayed clothing might appear as a branded shop. However, it is a thrift store where used or second-hand items are sold. Most of the items here were once tucked away in someone’s drawer and previously used, but they remain in good condition. Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya works to offer these items a new value and bring them to new users.

Thrifting is not a new concept in Nepal. The practice of selling used thrift items through social media has been growing in recent years. However, efforts to systematically and reliably reintroduce branded fashion items back into the market have been limited. Recognizing this gap, entrepreneur Sita Paudel started Pre-Loved Luxe by Soraya. According to her, Pre-Loved Luxe is not merely a commercial platform but also a campaign for sustainable fashion and responsible consumption. “The items we buy, use, and discard directly impact the environment. If items that can still be used are repurposed, it can reduce environmental burdens,” she says.

One of Pre-Loved Luxe’s key features is its quality control system. People wishing to sell items must bring branded and authentic products in good condition. Heavily used items are not accepted. Each item undergoes thorough inspection, and often Sita herself inspects goods during night hours. “People entrust us with items worth millions of rupees. Customers also trust us when purchasing. Therefore, trust is our greatest asset,” she explains. Currently, Pre-Loved Luxe carries international brands like Zara, H&M, Coach, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, among others. Some items are priced below a thousand rupees, while luxury goods can cost between 50,000 to 80,000 rupees. According to Sita, the success of Pre-Loved Luxe is not limited to business. This model benefits four parties simultaneously: first, sellers who earn by selling unused items; second, customers who acquire quality branded items at lower prices; third, the team running the business who gain employment and income; and fourth, the culture of reuse which contributes to environmental protection. “What makes me happiest is that all sides win here,” she says.