Mackenzie Wavryk started Upcycle Clothing Collective with her mother in 2019, in part because she wasn’t comfortable following trends or conforming to styles. But in a strange twist of irony, she has become a fashion trendsetter in our community.
“I have always had an eye for thrifting. So this is my creative space to celebrate individual styles and offer a space for everyone to shop, without any stereotypes,” she explains.
Located on Fort Street, Upcycle Clothing Collective sells quality contemporary and vintage clothing for all genders on consignment. Ira Hémond (Wavryk’s new business partner and life partner, too) says that in the past two years, they have surpassed 1,600 consigners.
They also provide space for six specially selected local designers to sell their handmade, sustainable, small-batch clothing, also on consignment. And they donate proceeds from a special rack in the shop to charity.
Wavryk and Hémond pride themselves on offering something for everyone. “We want everyone to come in and find at least one thing they are attracted to,” says Hémond.
“If you don’t shop for our clothes, you can find natural deodorant or locally made perfume bottles,” adds Wavryk. “That is why I bring in so many options.”