From Corporate to Curated: The Story Behind The 2nd Story
"Oh my god, I love your outfit! Where did you get that?!" These were statements I heard time and again while working in corporate. After years in the typical 9-5 grind, I took a step back to dig into what I truly love. The answer? SHOPPING!
But not just any shopping—thrifting, vintage, and antiquing. I realized that every time I went out, a compliment would be followed by a familiar comment: "I could NEVER find that or put something like that together." I found my joy in showing others how to create a unique style that was truly their own.
This all came at a time when my husband and I were making a conscious effort to reduce our environmental footprint. Thrifting became our favorite way to do good while having fun. There is so much quality out there, just waiting for a new chapter.
That's when The 2nd Story was born. It's a way to connect personal style with sustainable values, making it easy for everyone to look good and do good. This is eco-friendly, conscious consumerism, and mindful shopping—all in one place.
Gabriella Dolce
Commander-in-Chic
Our Process: Hand Picked, Expertly Styled
At The 2nd Story, our mission is to deliver unique, sustainable style to your door—without the work. Here’s a look at how we turn beautiful, pre-loved items into your new favorite outfits.
1. The Hunt for the Next Chapter
It all starts with the hunt. I personally go to local thrift and secondhand shops, meticulously sifting through racks to find pieces that stand out. I'm not just looking for clothes; I'm looking for quality fabrics, unique prints, and items with a story to tell. Every garment is hand-selected with a discerning eye for its potential to become part of a new, cohesive look.
2. From Pieces to Perfection
This is where the magic happens. After finding a treasure trove of individual items, I bring them back to the studio to build full outfits. My expertise in styling comes into play as I combine different pieces, adding a complementary piece of jewelry or another unique accessory to polish off the look. Each outfit is thoughtfully curated to feel complete and ready to wear, providing you with a head-to-toe ensemble that you won't find anywhere else.
3. A New Lease on Life (Character Included)
Before any outfit leaves our studio, it undergoes a careful inspection. I take the time to clean and steam every item, ensuring it is fresh and well-cared for. Because these items are pre-loved, they may carry minor imperfections—a faint wear mark or a small mend—that we believe add to their unique story and character. We're committed to quality, and we embrace these little "boo-boos" as a part of the garment's journey, making your new outfit truly one-of-a-kind.
Is Your Wardrobe Part of the Solution?
The average person discards over 80 pounds of clothing each year, contributing to the massive 90 million tons of textile waste in our landfills. It’s a silent problem with a significant cost to our planet.
The 2nd Story was founded on the belief that your wardrobe can be a powerful force for good. We make it easy for you to build a conscious closet, offering a stylish and sustainable alternative to fast fashion.
When you wear a curated outfit from us, you're not just expressing yourself; you're actively reducing waste and demanding a better way forward.
Join us in creating a more sustainable future. Your next favorite outfit is waiting for its next chapter, and so is our planet.