Amy Polevoy is turning preloved fashion into a movement. As the founder of Angels Wear Preloved, she’s redefining what it means to shop sustainably, inviting women into a space where style meets story, and every piece carries a past worth celebrating. What began as a deeply personal evolution has blossomed into a thoughtfully curated experience. Angels Wear Preloved Event is on Sunday, April 12th at The Warehouse in Toronto.
We love the concept of the Angels Wear Preloved event. Tell us the story of how it came to be.
I had my own consignment store, The Style Heiress, which lived on the lowest level of my home for just shy of a decade. I missed seeing the world! I was tremendously grateful because my business was thriving, but it was literally keeping me underground. When I closed up, it was SO bittersweet because I absolutely LOVE the business of designer consignment and luxury resale. After travelling to Vintage shows outside of Canada, I realized there is a big hole in the marketplace. Unlike the Vintage clothing show that I have attended at the exhibition for many years – we did not have a community or a tradeshow/ shopping event based solely on the luxury resale space… And so it began!
Photo provided by Easton Creative Communications
Luxury resale is clearly having a moment. What key factors are driving this surge, and do you see it sustaining long-term?
Firstly, a troubled economic standpoint coupled with the height of social media showcasing luxury brands on the arms of so many “aspirational people”- resale is allowing luxury brands to actually be accessible to not only the rich and famous. Also, I believe the younger generation governs much of the fashion space and with their coveting “Thrifting” – I think we are too!! Pre-loved clothing is now wildly celebrated versus it having a tainted view. Not only do I see this sector being sustained long-term I ,think it will continue to grow and grow!
Younger consumers are entering the luxury space in a big way. How are Gen Z and Millennials redefining what it means to “own” luxury?
“Thrifting” has become the new “hanging out at the mall” for the younger generation!! It’s fun, it allows them to define their own style in a more unique way vs. Shopping at big box stores. I do think desire is driven by social media in a big way – particularly via TikTok- to own & wear luxury like models/creators/influencers might be fortunate enough to wear. I think it’s exciting for them to have access to luxury at a price point that is congruent to their age or the space in their life.
Photo provided by Easton Creative Communications
Which designer brands or specific items are holding the strongest resale value right now and which ones do you see appreciating in the near future?
Classic CHANEL flap bags and Hermes Birkins & Kellys are primary, no doubt. I see brands like The Row and Toteme appreciating in the near future. Their price point is exceptionally high, but the quality is exceptional and the styles have tremendous longevity.
What trends are you seeing right now in preloved luxury—are buyers becoming more investment-driven, sustainability-focused, or brand-loyal?
In my opinion, it would be brand-loyal. Whilst “hunting” through these beautifully curated designer consignment stores, I am definitely looking for my favourite brands & brands that I have seen or heard to be very coveted. We go after what we know and what we like. Although we are excited to find something completely unique, that piece could still come from the brand that we are crushing on or have been in a long-term relationship with!
