8
FASHION
Smitten luxury makes "pre-loved" new again Alyssa Deaborn
FEBRUARY 2022
T
he business of reselling has been growing in popularity over the past couple years, especially when it comes to vintage and preloved–or used–items. Nicole Praetorious – Jamesville native and owner of Smitten Luxury – professionally resells preloved designer bags through her online store and popup events. She is not surprised that reselling and consignment businesses have become more popular. “I think the resell market has kind of exploded for a few reasons.” Nicole said, “I think sustainability is one side of it, however, I don’t think that’s the main driver. I think that’s a perk. I think people are very excited to get designer pieces under-retail. I think there’s also an appreciation of getting away from the idea of just thrift stores. I love thrift stores, but I think we’re trying to make it so it’s not just ‘used’ - it’s ‘preloved’. It’s seen as more of an opportunity to get something sustainable, under-retail, and unique.” Her own appreciation for preloved fashion began with her love for estate jewelry. It was her own collection of vintage jewelry that inspired Smitten Luxury’s concept. “A lot of my jewelry is estate jewelry. I love preloved everything, but I started with jewelry,” she explained. “I started doing a lot of consignment shopping. I love consignment stores and I actually worked in a designer consignment store in Florida for a few years. I just kind of got into it that way. I think of it almost
GO R ED EDITION
