CATCH UP WITH THE CYCLE

Giving a new life to used items, these young thrift store founders are leading the way to a more sustainable ecosystem.

- Syazil Abd Rahim & Nikita Nawawi

ANIS FOUNDER DOPPELGANGER

His passion for fashion and determination to be his own boss led Anis to open his own thrift store at a very young age in the capital of Pulau Pinang. Targeting people of all ages, the products found at Doppelganger include fashion garments and accessories that are handpicked by the founder himself. Today, this youthful boutique is reckoned as one of the best places on the island for quality and rare findings.

What's your brand philosophy when it comes to fashion and sustainability?

At Doppelganger, we are very aware of what we're selling. We only supply items that we really feel like they are saleable, and this practice has allowed us to avoid wastage as much as possible.

You've been in the industry for quite some time. What are the changes that you've seen in consumer behaviour in terms of going thrift shopping?

About 10 years ago, I'd say people were more doubtful and a bit sceptical when buying thrift clothing. They were worried about where the clothes came from, whether or not they were clean, and if they were original, etc. However, when I opened my own secondhand shop, I'd say that those concerns have reduced significantly. In fact, we're seeing more people logging in for vintage and thrift items, especially among people my age.

Why do you think millennials and gen-z especially are extremely invested in thrift items?