Episode 14: Redefining fashion with Aidan Bartlett of Designer Wardrobe

Pictured above: Aidan Bartlett and Lilah McDonald.

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.

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Episode highlights

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.

“We’re not just a fashion platform – we’re part of a mindset shift towards smarter, more sustainable ways of consuming.” – Aidan Bartlett

Get in touch

Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts
Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast

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Find out more about Designer Wardrobe

Website – designerwardrobe.co.nz
Facebook – @designerwardrobenz
Instagram – @designer.wardrobe.marketplace
TikTok – @designer.wardrobe.mp

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.