In the world of fashion, nothing beats the thrill of discovering a unique, one-of-a-kind piece that feels like it was made just for you. For fashion enthusiasts like Chioma Mmeje, thrifting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. A passionate advocate for sustainability and personal style, Chioma’s journey from fashion design to thrifting is inspiring for anyone who seeks to stand out in a world of fast fashion. In this interview, Chioma shares her love for thrift shopping, her personal style evolution, and tips on how to make the most of a thrifted wardrobe. Her story is a testament to the beauty of self-expression
Do you mind sharing your fashion journey?
Chioma: My fashion journey started when I was very young. I was always particular about how I looked—even at four years old, I was picking out my own clothes. As I grew older, I became more interested in fashion design because I wanted to create exactly what I envisioned. I went to fashion school, but my relationship with designing has been very start-stop. I took a break from designing in 2020, but I’m still on a journey of rediscovery. I’m always exploring my style, whether I’m actively designing or not. Fashion, for me, is about constant reinvention.
What inspired you to start thrifting?
Chioma: Thrifting started as a necessity for me. Growing up, my parents weren’t rich, so we bought thrifted clothes. I loved going to the market with my mom—it was always such an exciting experience to find new things. Over time, I realized that thrifting gave me access to unique pieces that no one else was wearing. That exclusivity was a big part of what drew me in. Now, I enjoy the thrill of finding cool, one-of-a-kind items that can’t be easily replicated in mainstream fashion.
How has thrifting impacted your style?
Chioma: Thrifting has made my style more unique and explorative. I don’t have a fixed style—it’s all about what I’m in the mood for. Thrifting challenges me to be creative with how I style things, especially when I find something interesting. It’s a lot cheaper than buying new clothes, which makes it easier to experiment with different trends, colours, and silhouettes. I’m always looking for ways to reinvent myself, and thrifting allows me to do that without breaking the bank.
What role does sustainability play in your fashion choices?
Chioma: Sustainability has definitely influenced how I think about fashion. I’ll admit that I’m a bit of a clothes hoarder, but I’ve become more conscious about recycling what I have and buying pieces that will last. I want the clothes I design to be timeless and of great quality so they can be passed down or resold. Thrifting helps me stay sustainable because I’m giving clothes a second life and keeping them out of landfills. Plus, with platforms like Forkeeps, I can sell items I no longer need, which has made me more open to investing in quality pieces.
How do you balance following trends with staying true to your unique style?
Chioma: For me, it’s all about what I like. I’ll follow a trend if it appeals to me, but I’m not bound by what’s in or out. I think trends can inspire, but I always focus on whether something looks good on me and if it’s fun to style. I’ve worn bubble skirts even after they stopped trending because I love them. If I like it, I’ll wear it, whether it’s trendy or not.
What advice would you give to someone new to thrifting?
Chioma: Be intentional about what you’re looking for. Before going thrifting, have a clear idea of what your wardrobe needs. It helps to be particular because it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. When you find something you like, make sure you can style it in at least three different ways before buying it. This way, you’re not just adding clothes to your closet—you’re adding versatility.
Chioma’s journey from designer to thrift enthusiast reveals that fashion doesn’t have to come at the cost of sustainability. Through her love for thrifting, she’s been able to cultivate a wardrobe that reflects her unique sense of style while being mindful of the environment. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a newbie looking to dip your toes into secondhand fashion, Chioma’s story offers valuable insights on how to shop smart, express yourself, and contribute to a more sustainable future—one thrifted piece at a time. Check out the Forkeeps App to begin!
