Hyderabad entrepreneur promotes sustainable clothing through thrift sales, recycling

Hyderabad: Indian households are increasingly embracing thrifting, the practice of acquiring second-hand items, as a sustainable and eco-conscious movement. Thrifting is becoming popular in Hyderabad due to the rise of thrifting events in the city.

Vyshnavi Gudivada, a 25-year-old psychology student and entrepreneur, founded a women-only WhatsApp group around 2018, which now has over 430 members.

In August of this year, Vyshnavi, along with Niharika of Wildberry Organics and Sphoorthi Pemmasani, the founder of Gāiaa Living, initiated in-person thrift events in Hyderabad. The events promote sustainability by reducing garment waste, as our culture traditionally encourages purchasing new clothes for various occasions.

The third thrifting event is scheduled for November 5 at Adika café in Alwal in Secunderabad.

The group, initially focused on minimalism, has evolved to cover a wide range of items, from makeup and skincare to clothing, furniture, tech gadgets, and baby items. Items posted in the group find new homes quickly, with sellers providing reasons for parting with them.

Vyshnavi shared her motivation, saying, “Inspired by minimalism and decluttering, I started a women-only thrifting community on WhatsApp. The intention was to sell, swap, or rent items that people no longer needed but were in good condition. It’s not strictly about minimalism but focuses on living with things that bring joy.”

Niharika emphasised the significance of thrifting in promoting sustainability, stating, “Many people possess more clothes than they require and regularly wear only a fraction of their wardrobe. It is important to periodically assess and declutter our belongings.”

These events are inclusive, and attendees can bring up to five clothing items in good condition for thrifting, with the requirement to reclaim any clothes that remain unpicked.