StartHub’s Maaike Jansen interviews United Wardrobe founder Sjuul Berden. Photo Marieke Enter Over one hundred registrations and still more seats had to be added. The ‘Green is the new black: the future of fashion’ StartHub Wageningen event clearly hit the mark.
The pioneering platform had reeled in appealing guests: Dieuwertje de Wagenaar, co-founder of WUR’s Circular Fashion Lab, and Sjuul Berden, co-founder of United Wardrobe, which Vinted has since taken over. The common thread in their stories is that the fashion industry is starting to move toward sustainability, but there is still much to do. And, there is plenty to do for Wageningen students who want to follow in Berden and De Wagenaar’s footsteps and make it their mission. But, you need stamina, De Wagenaar warned.
No discouragement
‘I would have preferred to see the clothing industry come into action a decade ago, making my work redundant. But that is nowhere near the case’, she says. Still, De Wagenaar sees significant shifts, particularly in consumers, ‘So, do not despair, but you must be able to see the beauty in the struggle’, she advised the students in her audience.
Not every move needs to lead to success. Failure is also fine.
Sjuul Berden, co-founder of United Wardrobe, which was taken over by Vinted
Berden also underscored the importance of persistence. His idea for United Wardrobe was based on his sisters constantly borrowing each other’s clothes. He expanded his idea step by step with co-founders who, by design, differ from him. Occasionally to the point of being annoying, he laughs. ‘But a mix of personalities does work!’
Keep going
Success has not left Berden jaded. He talks passionately about trying to gain a foothold in the Canadian fashion market with United Wardrobe/Vinted. ‘Many founders see their motivation waning after their business has been taken over. Not me. I am still motivated to make the clothing industry more sustainable.’ When asked what he would advise people with similar aspirations, he says: ‘Keep on going. Once you know where you are headed, continue taking steps in that direction. Not every move needs to lead to success. Failure is also fine. But keep going. Don’t stand still.’
An information market of sustainable fashion entrepreneurs completed the event.
