Myza Fits by Mehreen: Odisha’s First Sustainable Upcycled Clothing Store
In a world drowning in fast fashion (literally, those landfills are no joke), Myza Fits is here to shake things up. As Odisha’s first sustainable upcycled clothing brand, Myza Fits isn’t just about selling clothes; it’s a full-blown fashion rebellion. It is the brainchild of Mehreen Sayeed, a 22-year-old engineering graduate from Cuttack who decided that saving the planet is way cooler than coding. While her degree says “engineer,” her heart beats for fashion, creativity, and sustainability. Think of Myza Fits as giving pre-loved outfits a second chance at life. Sustainability, creativity, and affordability are stitched into every Myza Fits creation. The brand transforms pre-owned fabrics, discarded clothes, and whatever cool material it can get its hands on into unique, high-quality outfits. Slow fashion isn’t just a trend here, it’s the whole vibe. In a place like Odisha, where thrifting and upcycling are still catching on, Myza Fits is leading the charge, one revamped outfit at a time.
What makes Myza Fits truly special is that it’s a one-of-a-kind venture in Odisha. While bigger cities have embraced thrifting and upcycling, Odisha’s fashion scene is still warming up to the concept. That’s where Myza Fits comes in; not just as a brand, but as a movement paving the way for sustainable fashion in the state. At a time when the startup culture in Odisha is booming, with young entrepreneurs breaking stereotypes and carving their own paths, Myza Fits stands as a shining example of innovation meeting purpose. It’s proof that fashion doesn’t have to be wasteful to be wonderful.
Operating mainly through Instagram, the brand showcases its handmade, upcycled designs that are as stylish as they are eco-friendly. From chic tops to intricate kurtis, Myza Fits has something for everyone who wants to look good while doing good. Sourcing materials in a thrift-store-less city hasn’t been easy, but the brand has made it work with online resellers, donations from friends and family, and even a few wardrobe raids, all for sustainability.
My City Links caught up with Mehreen to get insights about this business that has piqued everyone’s curiosity. Below are the excerpts from our conversation.
What inspired you to start Myza Fits?
I was inspired to start Myza Fits because I’ve always had a passion for fashion, and I wanted to find a way to make it more sustainable. Upcycling clothing seemed like the perfect way to get creative with fashion while also being environmentally conscious. I wanted to give old pieces a new life and show others how easy and fun it can be to make unique, one-of-a-kind outfits. Plus, I love the idea of being able to express my personal style while reducing waste!
How did you come up with the name Myza Fits?
I came up with the name Myza Fits by combining parts of my name, Mehreen, and my boyfriend Zahan’s name. I wanted the brand to feel personal, and using both of our names just made sense. "Myza" is a blend of Mehreen and Zahan, while "Fits" represents the fashion side, highlighting how I create custom, upcycled outfits.
What was the biggest challenge you faced while starting odisha’s first upcycled clothing store?
It was definitely sourcing the right materials. Since there are no thrift shops in Cuttack, it made it difficult to find second-hand clothes and vintage pieces that I could transform. I had to be resourceful, relying on online platforms like buying items from resellers and sometimes even using my own wardrobe. Apart from that, educating people in my area and in my family about upcycled fashion and convincing them of its value was another challenge.
Can you tell us more about the process of setting up Myza Fits as an online business?
I began by defining my brand and vision, focusing on sustainability and unique designs. Next, I created an Instagram account, showcasing my upcycled and handmade pieces through engaging visuals and stories. I also worked on building a community by interacting with followers and promoting my products through instagram ads and sfs (shares for shares).
Why did you choose to focus on upcycled and pre owned clothing?
I believe in the importance of sustainability in fashion. The fashion industry generates immense waste, and by upcycling, I can transform discarded materials into unique, stylish pieces. This approach not only reduces waste but also promotes creativity and individuality in clothing. By offering pre-owned items, I encourage customers to consider the environmental impact of their purchases and support a more sustainable lifestyle.
Can you walk us through your process of upcycling clothes?
It starts with sourcing materials, which often includes pre owned or damaged garments that can be transformed. Once I have the items, I assess their condition and envision new designs that enhance their style and functionality. I then carefully dismantle and rework the pieces, using techniques like sewing, dyeing, and embellishing to create something fresh and unique. Throughout this process, I prioritize quality and sustainability, ensuring that each piece is not only fashionable but also durable. Finally, I photograph the finished products and share them on my Instagram store, connecting with customers who appreciate the artistry and eco-friendly approach behind each item.
How do you source the pre owned clothes that you sell?
Primarily from my own wardrobe and reach out to friends and family for any unwanted items they might have. This helps me gather materials for my upcycling projects. Since there are no thrift stores in Cuttack, I’m also exploring online platforms where I can find unique pieces. Besides that, I also sell new exclusive handmade pieces.
Do you think thrifting and sustainable fashion are gaining momentum in Odisha?
Currently, no, I don’t think so. That is due to limited awareness and the absence of thrift shops. However, I see potential for growth as more people become conscious of environmental issues and the impact of fast fashion. By promoting the benefits of thrifting and sustainability through initiatives like Myza Fits, I hope to inspire a shift in mindset. With education and community engagement, I believe we can foster a culture that values sustainable fashion in Odisha.
Since you design and stitch the upcycled pieces yourself, where do you find inspiration for your designs?
From various sources, including Pinterest, Instagram thrift stores, and fashion blogs. I believe I have a strong vision for designing clothes, as I often have numerous ideas swirling in my mind. This creative flow allows me to experiment with different styles, colors, and techniques in my upcycling projects. I’m excited to translate these ideas into unique pieces that reflect my personal style and resonate with my customers.
What kind of materials or fabrics do you enjoy working with the most?
I particularly enjoy working with unique materials like glass tissue and georgette, as they allow me to create distinctive and elegant pieces. While rayon and cotton are easier to handle, experimenting with these less common fabrics challenges my creativity and helps me craft tops and kurtis that stand out in the market. I love the way they align perfectly with my vision for offering exclusive handmade clothing.
Have you ever worked on a piece that had a special story behind it?
Yes, I have. One memorable project involved transforming my grandmother’s old saree into a contemporary top. The saree held sentimental value, and I wanted to honor its history while giving it a new life. This process allowed me to blend traditional elements with modern design, creating a unique piece that resonated emotionally with both me and my customers. Each upcycled item I create often carries a story, making it even more meaningful and special.
Do you have any plans to expand Myza Fits, maybe by opening a physical store?
At the moment, no. My focus is on growing my online presence and connecting with customers through social media. However, I’m open to reconsidering this option in the future, depending on how my brand develops and the demand for my products increases. For now, I’m dedicated to creating unique pieces and building a strong online community.
How do you market Myza Fits and reach new customers?
By leveraging Instagram ads to reach a wider audience and attract new customers. I also engage in mutual promotions with other stores, sharing their products in my stories while they do the same for me.
What has been your most rewarding moment as an entrepreneur so far?
When a customer bought half of the items from one of my drops. This overwhelming support made me realize that my creations truly resonate with people and validated all my hard work. It was a proud moment that reinforced my passion for sustainable fashion and motivated me to continue pursuing my vision. Seeing my designs appreciated in such a meaningful way is what makes this journey worthwhile.
How do you educate your customers about the benefits of sustainable fashion?
While most of my customers are already aware of the benefits of sustainable fashion, I still find ways to engage and inform them further. I share insights about the materials I use, the upcycling process, and the environmental impact of fast fashion through my posts and stories. I also highlight customer stories and the unique journeys of my pieces, which adds depth to the conversation.
Have you faced any skepticism from people regarding upcycling or preowned clothing? How do you address it?
Not from my customers, but I’ve encountered some doubt from my family. They worry that people might not want to pay for these items. I explain to them the importance of sustainability and how fast fashion harms the environment. I share the positive feedback I’ve received from customers and highlight the uniqueness of each piece, helping them see the value and appeal in what I create.
Do you have a favourite customer story or review that has stuck with you?
I loved it when a customer ordered a custom kurti for her mom’s birthday and later came back to order another for her friend. She shared how much her mom loved the gift and how special it made the occasion. This heartfelt feedback really stuck with me, as it highlighted the personal connections my creations can foster. Knowing that my work can contribute to meaningful moments in people’s lives is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to keep pushing my creative boundaries.
What has running Myza Fits taught you about yourself?
Sometimes I have a vision for a project that I struggle to implement, and I do face failures along the way. However, I’ve learned that these setbacks can lead to new ideas and unexpected creativity. Each failed project often inspires something different, allowing me to adapt and grow as a designer. It’s all about persistence and the willingness to try again, even if the outcome isn’t what I initially envisioned. This process of experimentation and resilience is essential to my journey in crafting unique pieces for Myza Fits.
If Myza Fits had a theme song, what would it be?
Fight Song by Rachel Platten as it is an empowering anthem about perseverance and making an impact.
What’s the weirdest or most unexpected item you’ve upcycled into clothing?
An old set of curtains. The fabric had a unique pattern and texture, which inspired me to transform it into a stylish corset. It was unexpected because many wouldn’t think of using home textiles for fashion, but the result was amazing.
If you could thrift or upcycle an outfit for any celebrity, who would it be and what would you create?
I would love to create a sparkly dress for Sabrina Carpenter. Her vibrant and fun style inspires me, and I envision a dazzling dress that combines shimmering fabrics with playful details.
What's your personal favorite thrifted find of all time?
My personal favorite thrifted item is a Coach Poppy bag with silver detailing that I found at an online thrift store.
What's your guilty pleasure fashion trend that you secretly love?
I love wearing oversized, baggy clothes.
If you had unlimited resources, what's the craziest upcycling project you'd want to attempt?
I’d like to attempt to create something similar to Elie Saab’s Spring Summer 2004 collection. The intricate detailing, ethereal fabrics, and elegant silhouettes in that collection are truly inspiring. I would love to incorporate luxurious materials and stunning embellishments to capture that same dreamy aesthetic.
If you could swap wardrobes with any fictional character, who would it be?
It would be Regina George from Mean Girls.
If Myza Fits had a mascot, what would it be-a quirky sewing machine, a vintage dress, or something totally unexpected?
Definitely a quirky sewing machine! This sewing machine would have a playful personality, complete with fun accessories like colorful thread and a measuring tape as a scarf. It would represent creativity, transformation, and the heart of the upcycling process.
What's the one fashion rule you think should be completely ignored?
The idea that certain colors can’t be worn together. Mixing and matching unexpected color combinations can lead to unique and eye-catching outfits. Fashion should be about personal expression, and breaking traditional color rules allows for creativity and individuality.
If you had to describe your personal style using only three words, what would they be?
My personal style is heavily influenced by my moods, so it can’t be described in just three words. However, I can divide it into three distinct themes based on how I feel: ‘casual’ for laid-back days, ‘bohemian’ for when I’m feeling free-spirited, and ‘chic’ for moments when I want to make a statement.
What's a thrifting or upcycling myth that you wish people would stop believing?
That upcycled or thrifted items are always of lower quality or not trendy. Many people assume that because something is pre-owned, it lacks style or durability, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are countless unique, high-quality pieces waiting to be discovered, and upcycling often breathes new life into materials, making them even more special. Changing this perception could encourage more people to embrace sustainable fashion and see the true value in these items.
If you could open a Myza Fits pop-up store anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
It would be in Hawaii. The vibrant, beachy aesthetic of my creations aligns perfectly with the island’s laid-back vibe and tropical lifestyle.
Where do you see Myza fits in the next five years?
In the future, I see Myza Fits as a well-recognized brand in the sustainable fashion space, known for its unique upcycled as well as new handmade pieces. I hope to gain significant popularity as I believe my creations offer a unique value that doesn’t strain customers’ budgets like many other brands. By focusing on affordability without compromising quality, I aim to make sustainable fashion accessible to more people. I’m excited to continue building Myza Fits and connecting with a broader audience who appreciates the artistry and care behind each piece.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone wanting to start a sustainable fashion business, what would it be?
It would be to stay true to your vision and values while being open to experimentation. Focus on what inspires you and find ways to creatively transform materials, even if it means facing challenges along the way. Build a community around your brand by engaging with your audience and collaborating with others in the industry. Remember that every setback can lead to new ideas, so embrace the journey and keep pushing forward with passion and determination.
