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Manifesting Change, One Wave at a Time
From the Desk of Dr. Bonita Best
Hey Pretty,
Right now, I’m sitting by the water in Trinidad, just watching the waves roll in – steady, calming, and full of rhythm. Is taking me right back to Hawaii, where this whole dream of owning a boutique first came to life. I was in a different place back then, but I remember feeling the same since the clarity and peace. And more than anything, I remember, knowing that I wanted to create something meaningful.
At the time, I was deep in to being a buyer, and honestly, I dreamed of being a personal shopper for women – especially those who, like me, like a little flair, professionalism, and quiet luxury without shouting. I wanted to help women find pieces that didn’t just look good but made them feel good– like their best, most authentic selves.
That dream has grown into what you know as Runway Recycled-my heart project and mission in motion. A place where fashion gets a second chance, and where style meets sustainability and the most beautiful way.
And just like the waves, this journey has had is highs and lows – but the mission remains steady:
♻️ To redefine fashion with intention and care.
👗To help women see their beauty and own their style
🌏 And to create a movement, that’s bigger than any one of us.
So here I am – grateful, centered, and more determined than
Enjoying Trinidad liquid beauty ever to keep going. Not just for me, but for us.
If you’ve been rocking with me from the beginning – thank you. If you’re just finding a way to us – welcome. There’s room here for all of us to grow gift back and glow.
Come ride this wave with me:
- RunwayRecycled.shop for fashion with a purpose
- RunwayRecycled.org to support our bigger mission
We’re just getting started. Let’s keep manifesting together.
With gratitude and love,
Dr. Bonita “Bo” Best
Founder, Runway Recycled
The Power of Pre-Loved Bridal Gowns: A Chic and Sustainable Choice for Your Big Day
Hey, beautiful bride-to-be!
Let’s talk about something that could save you a ton of money, make your wedding even more unique, and help the planet all at the same time – pre-loved bridal gowns.
I get it – shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) parts of planning your big day. You want something stunning, something that makes you feel like the absolute queen you are, but let’s be real — wedding dresses can be crazy expensive.
That’s why more and more brides are saying “yes” to pre-loved wedding dresses. Whether you’re a sustainability queen or, a budget-savvy bride, or just someone who loves the idea of giving a gown a second chance at love, this blog is for you.
So, grab a cup of tea (or champagne – no judgement here), and let’s dive into why choosing a pre-loved wedding dress might be the best decision you make before saying ‘I do.’
Why Pre-Loved Bridal Gowns are a Game-Changer
1. Save Big While Looking Stunning
Let’s start with the obvious – pre-loved dresses cost a fraction of the price of buying brand new. You can score a designer gown that originally cost $5000 just for $1500 – or even less that means more money for your honeymoon, the reception, or those fabulous wedding shoes you’ve been eyeing. And the best part question no one would know it’s pre-loved. A good wedding dresses made to be worn once and cherish forever, so when you buy pre-love, you’re getting a gown that still in perfect condition – just without the eye-watering price tag.
💡Pro Tip: Use the money you save to splurge on an awesome photographer, because trust me — those wedding pictures will last longer than any dress!
2. Sustainability: A Dress that Loves the Planet
Did you know that the fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world? And wedding dresses? They’re part of the problem. Most brides wear their gown once and then store away forever. By choosing a pre-loved dress you’re giving it a second life instead of letting it sit in the closet or, worse, end up in a landfill.
When you wear a pre-loved gown, you’re reducing waste, saving resources, and making an eco-friendly choice – all while looking fabulous. And honestly? That’s the kind of energy the world needs more of.
3. Find a One-of-a-Kind Gown that No One Else Has
If you love vintage vibes, rare finds, and unique details, then pre-loved is definitely for you. Some of these girls are no longer in production, making them one of a kind treasures.
You can find a dress with intricate lace, classic pearl beating, or timeless silhouettes that just aren’t made the same way anymore. Imagine wearing a gown that carries a beautiful love story – one that you get to continue.
Or maybe you want to channel your inner DIY bride? A pre-loved dress gives you a perfect campus to customize, alter, or even up cycle into a total unique masterpiece.
Where to Find Your Perfect Pre-Loved Wedding Dress
Now that your (hopefully) sold on the idea, let’s talk about where you can actually find one.
1. Sustainable Bridal Boutiques & Online Shops
If you love the idea of shopping from home (because, let’s be real, wedding planning is exhausting), here are some of the best online platforms to browse pre-loved gowns:
- Runway Recycled – A boutique specializing in sustainable fashions ranging from pre-loved, samples from fashion shows and designers, discontinued to new items from closed boutiques/retail stores.
- Sustainable Gowns – A brand specializing in sustainable formal and bridal wear ranging from samples from designers (most with tags), discontinued brands and styles, and vintage wedding gowns.
- Still White – One of the largest online marketplaces for second-hand wedding dresses.
- Nearly Newlywed – A carefully curate site featuring pre-owned designer wedding gowns.
- Poshmark, Depop, & Facebook – Great for finding affordable, used wedding dresses from individuals selling directly.
2. Local Thrift Stores & Consignment Shops
If you love treasure hunting, visiting a thrift or consignment shop can be an amazing experience. Some high-end consignment shops specialize in bridal gowns and have stunning gowns at ridiculously good prices.
3. Borrowing or Revamping a Family Heirloom
Ever thought about wearing your mom’s or grandma’s wedding dress? If it’s got good bones (aka high quality fabric and timeless details), you can work with a tailor to modernize it and making it yours.
Imagine the sentimental value of walking down the aisle in a dress that carries generation of love. It’s sustainable and meaningful – double win!
How to Make a Pre-Loved Gown Feel Like YOURS
Okay, so you found the dress. Now, let’s make it your own!
✨ Tailoring is your best friend. Whether you want a better fit, a lower neckline, or added sleeves, a good dress to match your vision.
✨ Accessorize like a pro. A vintage dress can be totally modernized with the right veil, belt, or statement jewelry.
✨ Customize it! Some brides add lace appliqués, beads, or evenly their dress for a pop of color (think soft blush or champagne tones).
Remember — your wedding dress should make you feel like the best version of yourself, and a few tweaks can turn a pre-loved gown into the dress of your dreams.
Final Thoughts: Are You Ready to Say ‘Yes’ to a Pre-Loved Dress?
Listen, your wedding day is about you, your love, and the story you’re creating. A brand-new gown might look beautiful , but a pre-loved dress has sold, history, and a charm that money can’t buy.
It’s sustainable, budget, friendly, and gives you access to gorgeous, high-quality gowns without the crazy markups. So if you’re still on the fence, think about this: would you rather spend thousands on a dress you wear once, or find a breathtaking gown that lets you invest in the rest of your dream wedding? If you are ready to explore stunning, sustainable bridal fashions, check out Runway Recycled and our special moments brand, Sustainable Gowns – where fashion meets sustainability, and every dress has a second change at love.
💕 Because love deserves a beautiful beginning – without breaking the bank or the planet.
📍Visit us in our flagship boutique at Moorestown Mall, Unit 1445 or online store | 📸 Follow us on Instagram @ShopRunwayRecycled
Introducing She Connects Quarterly: Sip, Socialize, Style & Shop at Runway Recycled
Women are strong together. We uplift, inspire, and empowered one another in ways that shape communities and fuel success. That’s why Runway Recycled’s She Connects Quarterly, an exclusive gathering where women come together to celebrate four essentials: Sip, Socialize, Style, and Shop.
More than just an event, She Connects is a movement – a space designed for women to support each other express themselves through fashion, and build lasting connections. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, looking to expand your network, a fashion enthusiast, wanting to explore sustainable style or simply a woman who values sisterhood and empowerment, She Connects is for you.
The Power of Fashion & Self Expression
We’ve all heard the phrase, when you look good, you feel good. But at She Connects, we believe it goes much deeper – fashion is a language, a form of self expression that tells our stories before we even say a word. Whether it’s a bold statement piece, a perfectly tailored power suit, or a soft, feminine dress that make you feel your best, clothing can transform not just our appearance, but our confidence and mindset.
That’s why She Connects is rooted in fashion as a tool for empowerment. As we sit and socialize, we’ll also explore personal style, discovery, how the right wardrobe choices can make us feel stronger, more confident, and ready to take on the world. And with Runway Recycled’s curated selection of sustainable fashion, women can shop with purpose, knowing that their purchases contribute to a movement that values style, sustainability, and social good.
Building a Network of Like-Minded Women
One of the most powerful aspects of She Connects is its focus on community and collaboration. It’s not just about shopping and socializing; it’s about connecting with women who share similar ambitions, challenges, and aspirations. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, a working professional, or someone who simply loves being surrounded by strong, supportive women, She Connects is a space where you can find your tribe, your supporters, and cheerleaders.
Through these gatherings, we want to create a ripple effect of empowerment. Women uplifting women – sharing resources, ideas, and encouragement – creates a united front, where success is not a competition, but a collective achievement. She Connects will be a place where partnerships are formed, friendships are built, and dreams are supported.
Exclusive Perks for She Connects Members
As we grow this initiative, we’re introducing special benefits for She Connects participants, inspired by organizations like Ellevate Network, which allows women to engage in free events while offering exclusive perks for members. Everyone is welcome, but members will enjoy extra benefits!
💎 Early Access to Events & Workshops – Be the first to RSVP for our upcycling, sip-and-paint nights, DIY workshops, Ec0-Chic Trunk Shows, and more.
💎 Discounted Access to the Garment Library – Borrow luxury sustainable fashion pieces at exclusive member rates.
💎 Private Shopping Perks – Special discounts at Runway Recycled boutique.
💎 Business Spotlights & Collaborations – Promote your brand, business, or skills within the She Connects community.Right now, we’re starting in Moorestown, NJ, but as we grow, we’ll expand She Connects into more cities where women need this community.
Join Us for Our First She Connects Quarterly Event
Our inaugural She Connects Quarterly gathering is happening at Runway Recycled’s boutique, right inside Moorestown Mall, Unit 1445. This first event was set the tone for what’s to come – an event filled with engaging conversation styling tips, shopping for sustainable fashion, and the warmth of a community that truly supports one another.
Whether you come for a style inspiration, the networking opportunities, or just a will-deserved evening out with amazing women, you’ll be feeling empowered and ready to take on the world.
We invite you to RSVP and be part of this journey. Join us, sip with us, style with us, and build something incredible with us. She Connects is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to grow this movement with you.
Future Plans for She Connects
As we continue to build, She Connects into a thriving community, we’ll be launching:
- A dedicated website page with event updates, membership, details, and resources
- A social media page to keep the conversation conversations going between events
- She Connects Memberships with special perks and exclusive networking opportunities
If you’re ready to be part of something bigger – a sisterhood of strength, style, and success – She Connects is for you. Stay tuned for more details on upcoming events, membership options, and ways to get involved.
How to Stay Connected
Follow us on social media, sign up for updates, and don’t miss our first She Connects Quarterly event. This is just the beginning, and as we’re excited to see how this community grows and thrives.
Let’s sip, socialize, style, and shop – together.
A Milestone Moment for Runway Recycled
On January 18, Runway Recycled celebrated, and unforgettable, milestone photoshoot, marking a new chapter for our eco-chic boutique and formal brand, sustainable gowns. This photo shoot, not only showcase the stunning evolution of our brand, but also bought to life the exciting relaunch of Runway Recycled’s e-commerce boutique and highly anticipated debut of the Garment Library.
The shoot featured one of our original house models, Brenay, who is journey with us begin in the early days of our brand. Over the years she’s become a signature face for Runway Recycled, embodying the essence of sustainable luxury and timeless style. Brenay returned to model one of our stand out looks – a perfect representation of our commitment to up cycle stylish pieces.
Her outfit featured:- A $20 bill upcycled bow tie adorned with a rhinestone.
- A crisp Hunt Club white shirt
- A chic Europa Collection Diffusion blue blazer with beige elbow patches
- Iconic Fly Monkey denim jeans
- Platform booties that added a perfect edgy touch
Styled with understated elegance, Brenay reminded us of the power of thoughtful, sustainable fashion – where every piece tells a story.
For our closing, look our founder, Dr. Bonita “Bo” Best, joined Brenay in a bold black and white block-color faux fur jacket, symbolizing the unity and vision behind this milestone moment. Together, they embodied the spirit of Runway Recycled: a blend of eco-conscious fashion, individuality, and empowerment.As we move forward, the Garment Library represents an exciting opportunity for fashion enthusiast to explore a new way of shopping. This borrow-wear-return (or checkout-shine-checkin) system allows you to indulge in sustainable luxury while contributing to a greener planet. With membership perks through our Green Goddess Membership, the Library is your gateway to curate his style with a conscious.
This milestone wasn’t just about fashion – it was about celebrating community, creativity, and the journey of redefining luxury through sustainability.
Stylist: Tanya Preston, Studio 613
Photography: Calvin Childs, Fine Art Glam
Models: Brenay “Bre” Gaynor &
Dr. Bonita “Bo” Best (aka Dr. Bo The Model)
Chic & Match: Speed Dating & Styling Event – February 8th
Love is in the Air – and So is Sustainable Style!Looking for a unique way to meet new people while staying fashion-forward? Join us for the Chic & Match: Speed Dating & Styling Event on February 8th from 5:30 PM to 7 PM at RYFE Bar, Restaurant & Venue!
Why You Should Attend:-
- Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for fashion and sustainability.
- Discover new styling tips from Runway Recycled’s Garment Library and Styling Services.
- Enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere perfect for making meaningful connections.
Dress to Impress:
- For Women: Take advantage of the Runway Recycled’s Garment Library, Unit 1445, or get styled by its expert stylists to make your best impression.
- For Men: Men, check out sustainable style options at The Closet in Moorestown Mall, Unit 1285, and show up dressed for success!
Early bird tickets are $25, with prices increasing as the event approaches. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind event where love and fashion meet!-
Sewing Workshop by Yvonne Fashion Design – February 8th
Discover the Art of Upcycling with Yvonne Fashion Design!
Are you passionate about sustainable fashion or eager to learn how to breathe new life into your wardrobe? Join us at Runway Recycled on February 8th: 10 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM for an exclusive Sewing Workshop led by Ashleigh from Yvonne Fashion Design, a District of Columbia-Metropolitan Area sustainable designer!
What to Expect:
- Hands-on guidance in upcycling and transforming old garments into chic new pieces.
- Expert tips and tricks from Ashleigh, a seasoned seamstress and designer known for her innovative approach to sustainable fashion.
- A creative and supportive environment where you can explore your fashion ideas.
Whether you’re new to sewing or looking to sharpen your skills, this workshop is perfect for anyone interested in eco-friendly fashion. Limited spots available! Reserve your place now and take a step towards a more sustainable and stylish future. Tickets available on Eventbrite: RunwayRecycled.EventBrite.comFashion Sustainability and the Polyester Dilemma: A Thoughtful Reflection
At Runway Recycled, our mission is grounded in promoting sustainability through fashion. We pride ourselves on rescuing, beautiful garments from landfills and extending their life cycles by giving them a second chance to shine. However, as we continue to acquire pieces from fashion shows red carpet, events, boutiques, and even couture brands, we are confronted with a growing challenge: The prevalence of polyester.
This durable, versatile material may dominate the global fashion industry, but it’s impacting our planet, and our health is deeply concerning. Despite our preference for natural fibers, polyester garments – whether from fast fashion, bridal or high-end couture – are increasingly our inventory. This dilemma forces us to reconcile to truth:
- Keeping textiles out of landfills is essential for environmental sustainability.
- Polyester is neither good for the planet nor our bodies.
The Hidden Cost of Polyester
Polyester, a synthetic fiber, derived from petroleum, is a cornerstone of modern fashion. It is lightweight, durable, and inexpensive to produce, making it a popular choice for designers and manufacturers. However, these benefits come at a high cost.
- Environmental Impact: Polyester productions, require significant energy and releases, greenhouse gases. It is estimated that producing 1 kg of polyester emits 5.5 kg of carbon monoxide. Furthermore, polyester garment shed, micro plastics with every wash, contributing to the 14,000,000 tons of micro plastics currently polluting our oceans (Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation).
- Non-Biodegradability: Polyester tastes 20 to 200 years to decompose, meaning that every polyester garment ever made still your thoughts on this complex issue. This creates a long-term waste problem that directly contradict sustainability goals.
- Health Concerns: Polyester does not breathe, like natural fiber, such as cotton, silk, or wool. It traps heat
and moisture, which can irritate the skin and contribute to allergic reactions. Additionally, some study suggest that prolonged exposure to synthetic fabrics may have adverse effects on our largest organ – the skin.
Struggling With The Mission
At Runway Recycled, we are committed to reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. Yet, the abundance of polyester garment challenges, this mission. While rescuing these items align with our goal of preventing landfill waste, it also height highlights the need for systematic change in the fashion industry.
This internal struggle is one I face regularly. As a curator of eco-chic, formal wear, and bridal pieces, I grapple with whether promoting and reselling polyester garments, ultimately aligns with our values. At the same time, I realize that reusing and recycling is a step towards a more sustainable future – no matter the material.
The Road Ahead: Education and Advocacy
Our approach at Runway Recycled is not just to sell garments, but to educate and inspire change. Here’s how we can move forward:
- Raise Awareness: By sharing the environmental and health impacts of polyester, we can encourage consumer to make more informed choices.
- Promote Natural Fibers: We can prioritize garments made from natural, sustainable materials, showcasing their benefits over synthetic.
- Advocate for Change: The fashion industry needs to reduce its reliance on synthetic fibers. By supporting brands and designers committed to sustainability, we can influence trends and demand greater accountability.
- Innovate Recycling Solutions: Polyester is here to stay, but innovation in textile recycling can help mitigate its environmental footprint. Supporting research and development in this area is critical.
A Call to Action
While polyester presents undeniable challenges, it also presents an opportunity to spark meaningful conversations about sustainability. Let’s educate ourselves, advocate for systematic changes, and continue to find innovative ways to repurpose and extend the life of garments.
At Runway Recycled, we remain committed to doing our part, even when face with dilemmas. Together, we can create a future, where fashion is both beautiful and sustainable – for our planet and for our bodies.
Share Your Thoughts:
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this complex issue. How do you balance the need for sustainability with the reality of synthetic fabrics? Share your ideas and solutions in the comments below!
Sources:
Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2017 Nov. 27) A new textiles economy: redesigning fashion’s future.
Unric (2024 Dec. 17). From petroleum to pollution: the cost of polyester.
Lea Daulan. (2018 May 3). Chemicals in textiles and the health implications.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Textiles and health.
Runway Recycled: The Boutique Disrupting Fashion with a Borrow-Wear-Return Revolution
In an era of fast fashion, Runway Recycled is leading the charge for sustainable style. Located in Moorestown, NJ, this nonprofit boutique is redefining how women shop for fashion with its innovative Garment Library. By offering locals a way to check in and out designer formal wear, bridal gowns, and eco-chic pieces, Runway Recycled is creating a circular fashion economy while empowering women to look their best sustainably.
The Garment Library: Quiet Luxury Meets Community
Fast fashion is out, and quiet luxury is in. Runway Recycled’s Garment Library brings this ethos to life with a unique borrow-wear or shine-return model. Members can access high-end designer fashion without commitment to a purchase, reducing textile waste and making sustainability affordable for all.
Perfect for weddings, galas, or milestone events, the Garment Library blends vintage charm with contemporary eco-chic design, proving that you don’t need to buy new to feel extraordinary. “Women deserve access to sustainable luxury”, says Dr. Bonita “Bo” Best. “Our Garment Library is about extending the lifecycle of high-quality garments while giving women the freedom to experiment with their style.”
Bridal gowns and formal wear take center stage, offering an affordable and eco-chic alternative to one-time purchases. Locals can look forward to a curated collection that vintage charm with contemporary chic – perfect for weddings, galas, red carpeted events, movie productions, and everything in between.
Eco-Chic Trunk Shows: Fashion with a Purpose
Runway Recycled’s Eco-Chic Trunk Shows go beyond retail – they’re community-driven events celebrating sustainable fashion. From showcasing upcycled designs to spotlighting local designers and creatives, these events educate and inspire fashion lovers to embrace eco-conscious choices.
One highlight of these trunk shows is Catwalk for Change initiative, which its signature initiative, Black Fashion Week Experience (BFW EXP) and Project Runway Recycled. BFW EXP event not only showcases emerging designers but also highlights the intersection of sustainability and diversity, reinforcing Runway Recycled’s commitment to driving change the fashion industry.
Pay It Forward: A Boutique That Gives Back
Fashion meets for philanthropy with Pay It Forward, an initiative where donated garments are labeled to be gifted to women at the ScholarCHIPS Winter Wonderland event on December 21, 2024. This January, lucky brides-to-be attending the Bridal & Wedding Expo will have the chance to win wedding gowns – further proof of Runway Recycled’s dedication to empowering women through fashion.
Additionally, the boutique gifts items from the Garment Library to select models who collaborate withers mission, strengthening partnerships with creatives who share its values.
Disrupting Fashion, One Borrowed Gown at a Time
Runway Recycled is more than a boutique; it’s a disruptor in the world of sustainable luxury fashion. By integrating circular fashion practices with community-driven initiatives, it’s leading a moment that proves high fashion and eco-conscious living can coexist.
With programs like the Garment Library, Eco-Chic Trunk Shows, and Pay It Forward, Runway Recycled is setting a new standard for sustainable retail while making fashion accessible to grow, it’s inspiring a global audience to rethink how they show, dress, and give back.
With plans to expand its initiative and impact, this small boutique is poised to influence the industry far beyond Moorestown. And as the world watches, Runway Recycled continues to ask the question: Can fashion save the planet? Their answer question? Absolutely!
Blog Series: Part 4 – Fashion with Purpose – The Sustainability Mission Behind the Garment Library
Part 4: Fashion with Purpose – The Sustainability Mission Behind the Garment Library
Did you know that fast fashion accounts for 92 million tons of waste annually? At Runway Recycled, we’re changing that the Garment Library. By borrowing instead of buying, you’re helping us.
- Reduce Waste: Each borrowed garment is one less item in a landfill.
- Promote Reuse: Extend the life cycle of beautiful pieces, reducing the demand for new production.
- Empower Communities: Your membership directly supports our mission to empower women through affordable, sustainable fashion.
Join us in creating a future where fashion is beautiful, accessible, and sustainable. In our final installment, we’ll share the perks of becoming a Green Goddess Member and how to get started!
Blog Series: Part 3 – What’s in the Garment Library? Bridal, Eco-Chic, and Formal Wear
Part 3: What’s in the Garment Library? Bridal, Eco-Chic, and Formal Wear Treasures
Runway Recycled’s Garment Library is your 1-stop destination for affordable, high-quality fashion that fits any occasion. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store:
- Bridal Gowns: Say “yes” to sustainable luxury with our couture and elegant vintage wedding dresses. Perfect for your special day without the financial or environmental stress.
- Formal Wear: From galas to cocktail parties, our collection of evening gowns and formal attire will have you turning heads.
- Eco-Chic: Perfect for vacations, date nights, and weekend getaways, our curated collection ensures you look fabulous while stying eco-conscious.
- Corporate Chic: Need a polished look for a big presentation? Borrow tailored pieces to take your professional style up a notch.
Coming up in Part 4, we’ll discuss how the Garment Library supports sustainable fashion and reduces wardrobe waste!
