Pre-loved Conversations: Xupes Creative and Marketing Team
Did you know that the fashion industry contributes to 8-10% of greenhouse gas emissions? Choosing to buy pre-loved reduces your environmental impact by a remarkable 90% compared to buying brand new. In celebration of our commitment to second-hand fashion, our Creative and Marketing team share their insights and top picks from Xupes in the first edition of our 'Pre-loved Conversations' series.
Alice Martin Smith
Senior Photographer
Sophia Colkett
Marketing Manager
Emily Raymond
Junior Graphic Designer
Q: How do you encourage others to embrace pre-loved items, and what positive impact do you hope it will have on their lives?
SC: "The world of pre-owned isn’t something I had ever considered or bought into prior to working at Xupes. I had always been sceptical of the second-hand industry, but I think that was down to not researching enough into it and it not being that readily available as it is now. The charm of buying pre-loved is down to the world it unlocks, giving you the opportunity to own and continue the narrative of an item that was once loved."
Q: What was your most memorable pre-loved find and what made it special to you?
AMS: "Ever since I started my journey at Xupes, I've dreamed of owning my own a vintage Chanel bag. This year, on my 30th birthday, I was fortunate enough to make that dream come true. I purchased a Chanel medium classic flap bag with 18k gold hardware, which was crafted circa 1993, the year of my birth. This bag is more than just a fashion accessory; it's a symbol of my first venture into the world of pre-loved luxury items and a reminder of the celebration of my 30th birthday that I'll forever hold dear."
Q: How do you incorporate pre-loved into your personal style and what tips would you share with others looking to do the same?
ER: "As fashion trends change, so can the way we use pre-loved items. My tip is to consider new ways to use them. Take Chanel scarves, for instance; the way we style scarves has evolved over time, and they're incredibly versatile. Personally, I love to wear silk scarves in my hair as headbands. It's a little change that gives the scarf a whole new lease on life. Every pre-owned item gets a fresh start with a new owner, adding to its unique story."
Q: Since working at Xupes, what unique or unexpected treasures stick in your mind?
AM: "During my time at Xupes, I've had the pleasure of photographing countless stunning pieces. However, there's one unique bag that has remained etched in my memory – an embellished Fendi baguette. As a fan of 'Sex and the City,' I couldn't help but recall Carrie Bradshaw's iconic moments with this bag. Since we sold that particular Fendi bag at Xupes, we haven't come across another one in our inventory, making it all the more unforgettable."
SC: "For me it has to be the vintage or runway Chanel pieces that come in, I just love the brand and Coco Chanel’s history and everything she stood for, so I think if I have to choose one it’s got to be the Chanel Gold Metallic Floral Woven Jacquard Vintage Mini Flap Bag from 1997, I have never seen anything like it and think its utterly charming!"
ER: "I love the beautiful vibrant colours of the limited edition Hermès Rose Mexico Swift Leather & Marble Silk Constance 24 . Alongside the design, the technique used to create the Marble Silk Constance is entirely unique. There is only one person, Nose Moriyoshi, who knows how to do the silk marbling technique and it took the brand years to discover."
Q: And finally, what’s your top pick from Xupes’ collection and why?
AM: "When it comes to jewellery, my ultimate choice would have to be Tiffany & Co.'s Diamonds by the Yard bracelet. It's sophisticated design is so timeless. As for bags, the Hermes Mini Kelly in Vert Fizz is a favourite of mine. I love mini Kelly's and the colour is so gorgeous."
SC: "My top pick from our current collection must be the Chanel Crystal & Black Resin Gold Tone CC Drop Clip Earrings, they are so fun and fabulous! I think Chanel’s costume jewellery is a great entry level product and allows you to have that luxury look for less!"
ER: "My top pick is the Chanel Black and Blue Silk Vintage Flap Bag Motif Scarf. I love the vibrant blue and the modern twist on classic icons of the brand: pearls, suits and double flap bags. There are endless styling options with this scarf!"
