Today we’d like to introduce you to Mercedes Banda
Hi Mercedes, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always loved fashion and thrifting—finding unique pieces, embracing sustainability, and scoring great deals. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about shopping secondhand, not only for the thrill of the hunt but also for the environmental and financial benefits.
I’ve also always dreamed of becoming a business owner and being my own boss, creating something that truly reflects my passions and values. Over time, I started accumulating more than I could personally wear, so I decided to share my finds with others. That’s when I began selling online, curating a collection of preloved modern, vintage, and designer pieces. As my passion grew, so did my business, and I expanded into local pop-up markets.
Now, Mersees is my full-time business, where I combine my love for fashion, sustainability, and community. I handle everything from sourcing and styling to marketing and selling, and I love connecting with people who appreciate unique, quality pieces as much as I do. It’s been an exciting journey, and I’m thrilled to see where it continues to take me!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
For a while, I balanced my growing business with a full-time job, but I was eventually laid off. At first, it was a challenging and uncertain time, but I saw it as the push I needed to fully commit to Mersees. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I embraced the opportunity to turn my passion into something bigger. Taking that leap wasn’t easy, but it was the best decision I could have made.
The journey has been full of learning experiences that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’ve gained valuable insights into what sells well and how to stay on top of fashion trends. Patience has been key in navigating online sales, and I’ve developed strategies to keep costs low while maintaining quality. Exploring different local markets has allowed me to find the best fit for my business, and I’ve continuously refined my online marketing approach. Managing every aspect of the business has been challenging, but it has also made me more resourceful and adaptable.
Each step has been a lesson, and I’m excited for what’s ahead!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Mersees is all about curated, high-quality secondhand fashion with a focus on sustainability, affordability, and unique style. We specialize in sourcing and selling preloved modern, vintage, and designer pieces that help people express themselves while making more conscious shopping choices—all at great prices.
What sets Mersees apart is our eye for standout fashion and our commitment to giving each item a second life. Unlike mass-market thrift stores, we carefully handpick every piece to ensure quality, style, and longevity. We believe that shopping secondhand shouldn’t mean sacrificing style or breaking the bank, which is why we’re proud to offer affordable pricing without compromising on quality. Whether you’re looking for timeless vintage finds, trendy secondhand gems, or designer pieces at a fraction of the retail price, Mersees makes stylish, sustainable fashion accessible to everyone.
Beyond just selling clothes, Mersees is about community and the love of fashion. We connect with customers online and in person through local pop-up markets, offering a more personal shopping experience that brings people together over a shared appreciation for unique fashion.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of creating a space where style and sustainability go hand in hand. We want our customers to feel good about their purchases—knowing they’re getting something special while also making a positive impact on the environment.
At Mersees, we believe fashion should be fun, expressive, and inexpensive. Whether you’re shopping with us online or at an event, we’re here to help find stylish, high-quality pieces at prices you’ll love!
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5–10 years, thrifting and resale are going to get even bigger. More people are choosing secondhand fashion over fast fashion because it’s better for the planet, more affordable, and often higher quality. Big brands are even jumping on board, adding resale sections to their stores, which is making thrifted fashion more mainstream. Shopping for secondhand clothes online will also get easier with features like virtual try-ons and smarter recommendations. Social media will keep playing a huge role, helping people discover and buy unique pieces from independent sellers. At the same time, shoppers will start looking for better-quality, long-lasting items instead of fast fashion that falls apart quickly. And even though online shopping is booming, in-person experiences won’t go away—pop-up thrift events and sustainable fashion markets will keep growing as people look for cool finds and a sense of community. Overall, thrifting is here to stay, and it’s only going to get bigger and better!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merseesatx/?hl=en
