Two students at Swansea University have launched a vintage clothing venture.
Their Retro and Vintage Store – otherwise known as RAVS - at the Picton Arcade in the city centre - sells vintage and second-hand clothing in store, as well as items through their online Depop shop.
RAVS is brainchild of students Sion Williams, 20, and Caitlin Leatham, 21, who are both study business management at the university/
The idea came about on the back of growing demand for retro and vintage clothing amongst the city's large student population, with both students joining forces to take their business forward as a partnership.
After secured start-up funding through Newport-based price comparison firm GoCompare as part of their entrepreneurship module, they took out a lease on the shop and refurbished the store before launching.
Mr Williams said: “The idea came from the fact that I’m passionate about retro and vintage clothing and believe it’s important to encourage as many people as possible to wear pre-loved clothing.
“Fast fashion produces waste in excess of 300,000 tons a year in the UK alone which is a worrying, growing statistic.
“I’m personally very interested in the style and sustainability aspects of this kind of clothing and a strong believer that more should be done to lower this number and believe that the introduction of more vintage shops will play its part.”
Ms Leatham, who is originally from Newbury, added: “Vintage fashion is continuing to increase in popularity, especially among fashion and environmentally conscious students.
“The store has a strong customer base and I cannot wait to watch the brand grow.”
