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  • Blog Series: Part 2 – How the Garment Library Works – Borrow, Shine, Return

    Part 2: How the Garment Library Works – Borrow, Shine, Return

    Welcome back to our blog series! Today, we’re sharing how you can make the most of Runway Recycled’s Garment Library and its seamless process.

    Step 1: Become a Member

    Membership opens the door to our carefully curated collection. As a Green Goddess Member, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits like early access to new arrivals and discounts on our eco-stylish looks.

    Step 2: Borrow with Confidence

    Browse online or visit us in-store to select your perfect look to select your perfect look. Borrow for up to seven (7) days, with the option to extend if needed.

    Step 3: Style Your Moment

    Rock your look at your event, photoshoot, or night out, knowing you’re part of a sustainable fashion movement. Need styling advice, rebranding consultation, or pose coaching? Our team is here to help you shine.

    Step 4: Return and Refresh

    Return your garment refreshed with original tags and prepared for the next member.

    Next time in Blog Series Part 3, we’ll explore the unique items you’ll find in the Garment Library, from eco-chic looks to bridal wear!

    See Blog Series: Discover the Garment Library by Runway Recycled – Part 1

  • Blog Series: Part 1 – Discover the Garment Library by Runway Recycled

    Part 1: Introducing the Garment Library – Fashion That Empowers

    Welcome to the first part of our blog series on The Garment Library, a new initiative by Runway Recycled that’s redefining how women approach fashion.

    a rack of clothing

    What is the Garment Library?

    It’s more than a closet — it’s a curated collection of bridal gowns, formal wear, corporate looks, and eco-chic outfits available to borrow. Whether you’re attending a wedding, making a splash at a gala, or preparing for a special moment in your life, the Garment Library gives you access to stunning pieces without the hefty price tag.

    Our goal is simple: to empower women to look their best, feel confident, and embrace sustainable fashion. With every borrowed piece, you’re making a statement – not just about your style, but about your commitment to sustainability.

    Stay turned for Part 2, where we’ll drive into how the Garment Library works and the exclusive perks of being a Green Goddess Member!

  • The Green Goddess: A Reflection of Empowerment, Elegance, and Sustainability

    The Green Goddess: A Reflection of Empowerment, Elegance, and Sustainability

    She walks with purpose, grace, and a quiet confidence that turns heads. She is bold, yet gentle. She is radiant, yet grounded. She is the Green Goddess. But what does it mean to embody this title? What’s the feeling, the essence, the vibe of a Green Goddess?

    She is Rooted in Nature

    A Green Goddess is one with the earth. Her beauty isn’t fleeting – it’s timeless, like the steady rhythm of nature itself. She wears garments not as disposable trends but as cherished pieces, carrying stories of sustainability and second chances.

    Her choices speak louder than words:

    • A 2-piece suit made from rescued fabrics.
    • A chic blazer that once adorned another woman’s dreams.
    • A gown that has graced runways and now makes its way into her special moment.

    She doesn’t just wear clothes; she gives them new life.

    She Radiates Confidence

    To be a Green Goddess is to own every room you enter. It’s the feeling of walking tall, knowing your outfit tells a story of purpose. It’s the joy of celebrating you individually while contributing to something bigger — a world where fashion empowers and uplifts rather than discards and depletes.

    Her vibe says:

    “I am unstoppable.”

    “I deserve to shine.”

    “I am beautiful because I am authentic.”

    Her wardrobe doesn’t define her; it amplifies her.

    She is a Woman Supporting Women

    The Green Goddess vibe is collaborative, not competitive. She borrows a garment from the Garment Library, tagging Runway Recycled, not out of obligation but out of pride. She knows that behind every hemline and zipper, there’s a story – a vision from another woman who dared to dream big.

    She wears those stories proudly and passes them on to inspire the next woman. She understands that style isn’t just about look good; it’s about making others feel good, too.

    She Embraces Sustainability with Style

    For the Green Goddess, fashion is not about excess but intention. Her closet is curated, her choices deliberate. She doesn’t need 100 outfits -she needs a few that matter. And when she steps out in borrowed elegance from Runway Recycled’s Garment Library, she feels like a revolution.

    The feeling is powerful:

    • Knowing her dress saved a piece of fabric from the landfill.
    • Knowing her heels have walked in another woman’s triumphs.
    • Knowing her outfit is a testament to a new kind of luxury – sustainable, accessible, and chic.

    Her style whispers sophistication and shouts “I care.”

    The Vibe: Quiet Luxury, Loud Impact

    The Green Goddess vibe is a harmonious blend of modern femininity and timeless class. It’s wearing a corporate power suit with confidence, a bridal gown with joy, or an eco-chic ensemble with flair. It’s the understanding that fashion can be kind, beautiful, and transformative all at once.

    Her impact is loud – and ripple effect of empowerment and change.

    Are You a Green Goddess?

    To be a Green Goddess is to embrace who you are, to honor your journey, and to make choices that lift up others and the planet. It’s about redefining fashion, making sustainability glamorous, and sharing the spotlight with women everywhere.

    At Runway Recycled, we don’t just provide clothes; we provide a way of life — a chance to borrow confidence, wear empowerment, and embody the Green Goddess within.

    Step into this movement feel the vibe. Be the change. The Garment Library is now open, and we can’t wait to see how you shine.

    Call to Action:

    Ready to embrace your inner Green Goddess? Explore the Garment Library today and discover how you can make fashion a force for good. Visit RunwayRecycled.shop or stop by our boutique to start your journey.

  • Empowered Borrowing: A New Chapter with the Runway Recycled Garment Library

    Introduction

    Fashion tells a story. It transforms moments, boosts confidence, and connects us. At Runway Recycled, our mission is to empower women with stylish, sustainable options that not only look good but feel good too. Today, we’re thrilled to announce the official opening of the Garment Library—a woman-supporting-woman initiative designed to help you fill wardrobe gaps without breaking the bank.

    But let’s take a step back and talk about the lessons we’ve learned. Fashion is a collaboration, and we’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to celebrate the entire journey—from the garment’s origin to its runway-ready debut on you. Here’s how we’re using these lessons to revamp how the Garment Library operates, ensuring that every woman borrowing from our collection becomes a co-creator in the story of sustainability.

    The Lesson: Shared Stories, Shared Credit

    Fashion is a shared experience, but it’s also a partnership. Recently, we encountered a situation where borrowed garments and posing ideas made their way into the spotlight—but without credit to the creative hands and hearts behind them. While we’re thrilled to see our garments shine, we believe that collaboration works best when everyone involved is celebrated.

    So, we’re using this moment to refine and reshape how the Garment Library operates, ensuring that every woman borrowing from our collection plays an active role in sharing the garment’s story while honoring the partnership that makes it all possible.

    Announcing the Garment Library: A New Way to Borrow Fashion

    The Garment Library is here to make sustainable fashion accessible for all. Whether you’re saying “yes” to the dress, preparing for a career-defining presentation, or planning a chic getaway, our collection includes:
    •    Bridal Gowns: Affordable, elegant options that turn dreams into reality.
    •    Formal Wear: Statement pieces for galas, weddings, and red-carpet moments.
    •    Corporate Looks: Polished and professional outfits to own the boardroom.
    •    Eco-Chic Fashions: Stylish options for travel, nights out, and unforgettable moments.

    Every piece in the Garment Library is designed to elevate your style while supporting sustainability.

    Revamped Guidelines: Borrowing with Confidence, Sharing the Credit

    To ensure the Garment Library operates with transparency and respect for everyone involved, here are the updated guidelines for borrowing:

    1.    Tagging for Transparency
    When borrowing from the Garment Library, you agree to tag Runway Recycled, Sustainable Gowns, or both (depending on the item) in any photos or posts featuring the borrowed look. This not only credits the source but also helps us share the garment’s journey with our community.

    Hashtags: #runwayrecycled #sustainablegowns #garmentlibrary #greengoddessstyle #RRGarmentStory #borrowedconfidence #fashionwithpurpose

    2.    Contributing to the Story
    Borrowers are invited to contribute to the garment’s lifecycle story by enabling tagged photos and providing testimonials or captions that highlight how the piece was worn. Each story adds to the garment’s rich history.

    3.    Professional Cleaning Required
    All borrowed items must be professionally cleaned by our preferred dry cleaners to maintain quality and ensure they’re ready for the next borrower. Original tags must remain intact during the borrowing period.

    4.    Option to Purchase
    If you fall in love with a borrowed piece, you can choose to purchase it at a reduced rate. This ensures the garment continues to be cherished and appreciated in your own wardrobe.

    5.    Modifications Policy
    If modifications are required, they must be performed by our approved seamstress to maintain the integrity of the garment. Alternatively, borrowers may purchase the item and modify it independently.

    6.    Garment Visibility Online
    Borrowed items must be available for tagging on our online shop to showcase the garment in action. This feature connects the in-store borrowing experience to our digital audience, promoting the story of sustainable fashion.

    Why These Guidelines Matter

    These guidelines aren’t just rules—they’re part of a larger mission to ensure that every woman borrowing from the Garment Library feels empowered and celebrated, while also respecting the creative effort that goes into curating and maintaining our collection.

    By working together, we create a system of shared respect, sustainability, and collaboration. Every borrowed piece becomes a testament to the power of women supporting women.

    Join the Movement: Opening Day Is Here

    The Garment Library is officially open! Ready to step into a world of sustainable style? Whether you’re planning a wedding, heading to a gala, or simply need something fabulous for your next big moment, we’ve got you covered.

    Become a Green Goddess Member today to enjoy exclusive access to the Garment Library, early access to new arrivals, and personalized styling assistance*. Let’s make sustainable fashion the new standard—together.

    Final Thoughts: Fashion with Purpose

    At Runway Recycled, every garment has a story, and every woman who borrows from the Garment Library becomes part of that journey. Together, we can celebrate the beauty of fashion, the power of collaboration, and the importance of sustainability.

    Thank you for joining us on this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see how you shine in your borrowed looks—and how you contribute to their stories.

    Ready to get started? Visit RunwayRecycled.shop or stop by our boutique to explore the collection and learn more about becoming a member.

    Let’s empower, inspire, and create together.

  • Blog Series: Part 5 – Become a Green Goddess – Exclusive Perks of Membership

    Part 5: Become a Green Goddess – Exclusive Perks of Membership

    Joining the Garment Library as a Green Goddess Member is about more than borrowing clothes — it’s about being part of a movement. Here’s what you’ll enjoy:

    1. Exclusive Access: Be the first to browse and borrow new arrivals.
    2. Discounts & Perks: Enjoy member-only pricing and special offers.
    3. Personalized Styling: Receive expert advice to create unforgettable look.
    4. Sustainability Made Easy: Borrowing instead of buying makes reducing your fashion footprint effortless.

    Ready to get started? Visit Runway Recycled today and step into a new era of fashion where confidence and sustainability go hand in hand.

    Read the previous parts of the Blog Series:

    Part 4: Fashion with Purpose – The Sustainability Mission Behind the Garment Library

    Part 3: What’s in the Garment Library? Bridal, Eco-Chic, and Corporate

    Part 2: How the Garment Library Works – Borrow, Shine, Return

    Part 1: Discover the Garment Library by Runway Recycled

  • The Power of Small Business Saturday: A Dream Realized

    Small Business Saturday was more than just a shopping day at Runway Recycled—it was a celebration of women, empowerment, and community. Nestled in Moorestown Mall, our nonprofit sustainable boutique welcomed women of all ages, from teens to retirees, spanning Moorestown, Philadelphia, and neighboring states. Each customer brought more than just their presence; they brought a spirit of connection and support that turned an ordinary day into something extraordinary.

    From the moment we opened the doors at 2 PM on November 30, 2024, the energy was palpable. Women shopping for holiday parties, corporate events, and everyday looks found more than fashion—they found confidence. Strangers became cheerleaders, celebrating each other’s style choices, offering advice, and sharing stories. As I helped customers check out, I witnessed firsthand the true power of women supporting women. These moments touched my soul, a reminder of why Runway Recycled exists.

    This was not just shopping; it was a dream realized. Opening the store alone, I worried about the challenge ahead. But I wasn’t alone for long. The love, support, and encouragement shared among these women filled the space with a warmth that was both humbling and inspiring. This is what women empowerment looks like: collaboration, celebration, and connection.

    Our Sustainable, Small Business Saturday proved that brick-and-mortar businesses like ours are vital. In an age where online giants and fast fashion dominate, women chose us—a sustainable boutique with a niche mission. By shopping with us, they not only found unique, eco-chic looks but also supported something much bigger.

    Every purchase helps fund our Sustainability Apprenticeship Program, empowering future designers, sustainability advocates, and entrepreneurs with skills to thrive in a sustainable fashion industry. Every new customer fuels our mission to provide accessible luxury and eco-friendly options to the working poor. And every connection builds a foundation for empowering women and influencing styles in communities that extend far beyond Moorestown, New Jersey and its shopping mall.

    What happened on Small Business Saturday was nothing short of magical. Women left our boutique with smiles, confidence, and the beginnings of budding relationships. They supported each other as much as they supported us, showing that sustainable, quiet luxury can bring people together in meaningful ways.

    We can’t wait to see your final looks as we transition from the holidays into the New Year! Your joy and confidence fuel our mission, and we are excited for the moments yet to come.

    A special thank you to the incredible women who are volunteering their time and talents to model for us as we update our merchandise online on our revamped website (:o) you know who you are). Your support is invaluable as we prepare for our debut at the PA Bridal & Wedding Expo, where we’ll continue sharing our vision of sustainable, elegant fashion.

    Happy Holidays and, in advance, Happy New Year! Thank you for believing in us, for showing up, and for empowering Runway Recycled to thrive. Together, we are redefining fashion, building connections, and making an impact—one eco-chic choice at a time.

  • Runway Recycled Debuts at the Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo: Pioneering Sustainability in the Bridal Industry

    At Runway Recycled, a nonprofit retailer, we believe that every bridal gown deserves its moment to shine. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our debut at the January 4-5, 2025 Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo, where we’ll giveaway a gown and put a spotlight on our collection of rescued vintage and consigned couture designer bridal wear. These gowns – once gracing fashion shows and designer houses – have been lovingly curated to offer brides a chance to find the dress of their dreams while embracing sustainability.

    The Beauty of Rescued Couture Bridal Wear

    Every dress in our collection has a story. From the runway, fashion houses, couture designers’ hands to our boutique, these gowns represent timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. By rescuing these pieces, we ensure that they don’t end up forgotten or discarded but instead find their way into the hands of brides who will cherish them. Choosing a rescued vintage or couture gown is not only a sustainable choice but also a way to own a unique piece of fashion history.

    A One-Stop Bridal Experience

    Our boutique at Moorestown Mall is more than a store – it’s a space for creating unforgettable moments. After meeting us at the Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo, we invite brides to book an exclusive appointment where they can:

    • Discover our collection of one-of-a-kind gowns from top designers.
    • Work with expert stylists to find a look that’s uniquely theirs.
    • Access all-inclusive services featuring professional makeup artists, photographers, and hairstylists to complete their bridal vision.

    A Boutique for More Than Shopping

    Runway Recycled isn’t just for finding the perfect gown. We’re reimagining how brides and their loved ones celebrate by offering our boutique as a venue for intimate, personalized events, such as:

    • Sip & Shop Parties: Enjoy non-alcoholic or champagne with your bridal party while browsing our exclusive collection.
    • Sip & Style Parties: Enjoy champagne or cocktails while trying on gowns, browsing accessories, and styling looks together.
    • Pre-Wedding Showers: Host a unique celebration in our stylish, fashion-forward space.
    • Gown Reveal Party: Bride reveals her chosen gown to her bridal party, complete with refreshments and a mini-photoshoot.
    • DIY Bridal Workshop: Hands-on sessions for creating eco-friendly wedding decor, favors, floral arrangement, upcycled veils, jewelry, and much more.
    • Boutique Elopements or Micro-Weddings: Say “I do” in a charming, intimate setting surrounded by sustainable luxury.

    Imaging renting your dream gown, celebrating your special day in a chic boutique atmosphere, and leaving with memories captured by a professional photographer — all in one place.

    Join the Sustainability Movement in Bridal Fashion

    Runway Recycled’s mission is to bring sustainability to the forefront of the bridal and wedding industry. By rescuing gowns and making them available to brides who appreciate elegance and eco-consciousness, we’re paving the way for a more thoughtful approach to wedding planning.

    Let’s Make History Together

    Whether you’re a bride looking of the perfect gown, a planner seeking a unique venue with a heart and arch, or a journalist interested in covering this innovating approach, we invite you to join us on this journey. Visit us at the Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo or book an appointment to explore the possibilities at our boutique.

    mannequin dressed in a wedding dress and is carrying flowers and wearing a veil. The background illustrates a heart with hues of pink and white. Chairs are covered in black. There are two mannequins dressed in black gowns.
    Runway Recycled loves and welcomes brides and their loved ones. Let us help you exchange your sustainable vows.
    Mannequin dressed in wedding gown with candles lite; mannequin standing under an arch with flowers
    Imagine your day where you exchange your sustainable vows under this arch and in one of our collections of bridal gowns.
    a row of chairs covered in black inside Runway Recycled; it's an aisle.
    Image walking down this aisle (aka Runway Recycled’s iconic runway)

    About Runway Recycled

    Runway Recycled is more than a boutique — it’s a mission to redefine fashion’s role in sustainability. We rescue vintage and couture garments from being discarded, offering them a chance or second change to be loved and celebrated. Located in the Moorestown Mall, our boutique is the destination for professional women, brides, and eco-chic fashion enthusiasts.

    Ready to create your dream wedding sustainably? Discover Runway Recycled today. 

     

    Visit Us

    Let’s transform your bridal dreams into a sustainable reality.

  • Why Moorestown, NJ was Identifies an Ideal Place for Runway Recycled’s Flagship

    Why Moorestown, NJ was Identifies an Ideal Place for Runway Recycled’s Flagship

    By Dr. Bo Best, Founder & CEO – Runway Recycled 

    Original Published: April 15, 2023 (Updated May 4, 2024)

    At Runway Recycled, our mission is to revolutionize the fashion industry by promoting sustainability, and supporting marginalized communities. Establishing our flagship in Moorestown, New Jersey, aligns seamlessly with our goals, given the town’s unique blend of community characteristics and strategic location. 

    Community Demographics and Economic Landscape

    Moorestown, a township in Burlington County, boasts a population of approximately 21,577 as of 2023 census. While the area is known for its affluence, economic disparities exist within the community. In 2021, 19% of Moorestown families did not earn enough to afford the basic cost of living, with 5% living below the poverty line. This indicates a significant portion of the population facing financial challenges, underscoring the need for initiatives that support the working poor and marginalized groups. 

    Proximity to Major Urban Centers

    Moorestown’s location offers proximity to major urban centers like Philadelphia and New York City, which are traditional main fashion hubs. This accessibility allows Runway Recycled to tap into a diverse talent pool and resources while operating in a community that benefits from economic development initiatives. 

    Community Engagement and Support

    The township’s active community organizations and supportive local government create an environment conducive to social enterprises. Moorestown Mall has a history of community involvement and support for local businesses. Collaboration with local institutions, such as Rizzieri Aveda School in Voorhees, NJ, for hair and makeup services during events, exemplifies the community’s engagement and support for initiatives like ours. 

    Addressing Local Needs

    By establishing Runway Recycled in Moorestown, we aim to address local economic disparities by providing employment opportunities, skills training, and access to affordable, sustainable fashions. Our programs, such as the Sustainable Apprenticeship Program (formerly Emerging Sustainable Bootcamp) and the Boutique on Wheels (BOW), are designed to empower residents, particularly those from marginalized communities, by offering pathways to economic stability and personal development. 

    In summary, Moorestown’s demographic diversity, strategic location, and supportive infrastructure make it an ideal setting for Runway Recycled to fulfill its mission of serving the working poor and marginalized communities beyond the main fashion hubs. 

     

    1 About Moorestown: Moorestown Township, NJ – Official Website
    2 US Census Bureau QuickFact (July 2023)
    3 United for ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) of Northern New Jersey
    * New Jersey Poverty Rate By County – IndexMundi.com
    5 Patch.com: Moorestown Mall Stores Keep Community Engaged Amid Closure (April 2020)
    6 Patch.com: Moorestown Mall’s Proposed Entertainment Complex To Get Vote This Fall (September 20)