# Smart, Sustainable Shopping with Melynda Choothesa

- Link: https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/
- Published: 2024-11-19T08:08:54-08:00
- Author: Rich Baldonado

## 󠀁[SHOPPING](https://shopquirkla.com/)󠁿

# Smart, Sustainable Shopping with Melynda Choothesa

Ever find yourself staring at your closet, wondering which pieces truly resonate
with your sense of style? If you’re aiming for a wardrobe that feels both timeless
and aligned with your values, it might be time to rethink how you shop. Melynda 
Choothesa, CEO and Senior Fashion Stylist at [Couture Zen](http://www.couturezen.com)
[(www.couturezen.com)](http://www.couturezen.com) in Los Angeles, has spent years
merging the worlds of high fashion and sustainability. Her approach shows that style
doesn’t have to come at the cost of the planet. 

In this post, we’ll explore Melynda’s journey from fashion insider to advocate for
conscious shopping, along with practical tips for building a wardrobe you love—one
that feels polished but also personal, without falling into the trap of standard
fashion norms.

![Cropped black jacket with a broad brown collar styled with white trousers and 
a green beret, front view](https://shopquirkla.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/melynda-
e-com-stuff_20221212_13.jpg)

## Meet Melynda: Finding Balance Between Fashion and Sustainability

 Starting out in the fashion industry, Melynda saw firsthand the waste generated
by fast fashion. From managing high-end resale shops to styling on film sets, she
couldn’t ignore the piles of discarded clothing or the environmental impact of constant
overproduction. These experiences led her to shift her approach, focusing on quality
and sustainability over trends and disposability. Today, Melynda shares her insights
and discoveries through her styling work and online platforms, connecting with others
who are looking to make more mindful choices. Her perspective isn’t about perfection;
it’s about making better choices whenever possible.

![](https://shopquirkla.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/melynda-e-com-stuff_20221212_164-
1024x1024.jpg)

![Front view of a vintage blue gingham blouse tucked into its matching embroidered
full skirt](https://shopquirkla.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/melynda-e-com-stuff_20221212_308-
1024x1024.jpg)

## Why Sustainable Shopping Matters

**The Reality of Fast Fashion’s ImpactIt’s no secret that fast fashion has a serious
environmental cost. The industry’s quick turnaround and disposable mindset have 
led to enormous waste, from textile pollution to significant carbon emissions. The
numbers are staggering, but what’s even more impactful is realizing how everyday
shopping choices contribute to this cycle.
Choosing More ThoughtfullySupporting 
sustainable brands isn’t just about labels; it’s about prioritizing companies that
value ethical practices and transparency. It’s a shift away from impulse buying 
toward selecting pieces that fit both your style and your values. It can feel overwhelming
at first, but Melynda’s approach is to start small, making changes where you can
and building from there.

## Melynda’s Approach to a Thoughtful Wardrobe

**Curate Your Closet: Quality Over QuantityA polished wardrobe doesn’t mean sticking
to strict rules or basic pieces. It’s about curating items that feel like you and
investing in quality that lasts. Melynda often advises her clients to consider how
each item fits into their lifestyle, whether it’s a classic tailored jacket or a
favorite vintage find. These are the pieces you’ll reach for time and time again,
making them worth the investment.

**Secondhand and Upcycled Fashion: Rediscovering What’s OldMelynda has long been
a fan of secondhand shopping—both for the unique pieces you can find and the reduced
environmental footprint. Vintage stores, thrift shops, and online marketplaces are
full of treasures that add character to any wardrobe. Upcycling, or creatively altering
existing pieces, is another way to breathe new life into clothes you already own.
It’s less about following trends and more about crafting a look that feels authentic.

**Look for Eco-Friendly FabricsUnderstanding fabrics can make a big difference when
shopping consciously. Materials like organic cotton, Tencel, and hemp are less taxing
on the environment compared to conventional options. Melynda suggests taking a closer
look at what your clothes are made of, learning about certifications like GOTS (
Global Organic Textile Standard) to ensure your purchases align with eco-friendly
practices.

**Your Wardrobe, Your Way: Embrace IndividualitySustainable fashion doesn’t have
to mean plain or predictable. Melynda believes that personal style should never 
feel restricted. Mixing timeless pieces with unique accents—whether it’s a bold 
accessory or an upcycled garment—creates a look that’s polished but never boring.
It’s about expressing yourself and feeling confident, knowing that you’re making
choices that reflect your values.

 * 1940s Boston Maids Black Crepe Uniform Dress – Modern US 2 to Pinterest (opens
   in a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1940s%20Boston%20Maids%20Black%20Crepe%20Uniform%20Dress%20%E2%80%93%20Modern%20US%202&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2F1940s-boston-maids-black-crepe-uniform-size-2%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F09%2F4J2A9132-1-1024x1024.jpg)
 *  [ ⌊8240⌉ ⌊8242⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1940s-boston-maids-black-crepe-uniform-size-2/)
   [1940sBoston Maids
 * 
   ## Black Crepe Uniform Dress
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=9136)
 * Early 1990s Bally Black Quilted Leather Top Handle Bag to Pinterest (opens in
   a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=Early%201990s%20Bally%20Black%20Quilted%20Leather%20Top%20Handle%20Bag&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2Fearly-1990s-bally-black-quilted-leather-top-handle-bag%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F05%2FDominiqueFeb20264337-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊90405⌉ ⌊90408⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/early-1990s-bally-black-quilted-leather-top-handle-bag/)
   [Early 1990sBally
 * 
   ## Black Quilted Leather Top Handle Bag
   
 * 
 * [Out of stock](https://shopquirkla.com/product/early-1990s-bally-black-quilted-leather-top-handle-bag/)
 * 1980s Emanuel Ungaro Silk Floral Skirt Set – Size 10/12 to Pinterest (opens in
   a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1980s%20Emanuel%20Ungaro%20Silk%20Floral%20Skirt%20Set%20%E2%80%93%20Size%2010%2F12&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2F1980s-emanuel-ungaro-silk-floral-skirt-set-size-10-12%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F01%2FKaelin_Nov_20252385-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊86347⌉ ⌊86346⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1980s-emanuel-ungaro-silk-floral-skirt-set-size-10-12/)
   [1980sEmanuel Ungaro
 * 
   ## Silk Floral Skirt Set
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=86608)
 * 1970s Hand-Sequined Open Latticework Butterfly Gown – Size 0/2 to Pinterest (
   opens in a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1970s%20Hand-Sequined%20Open%20Latticework%20Butterfly%20Gown%20%E2%80%93%20Size%200%2F2&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2F1970s-hand-sequined-open-latticework-butterfly-gown-no-label%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F09%2FTomi-july-2024-46-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊84786⌉ ⌊84765⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1970s-hand-sequined-open-latticework-butterfly-gown-no-label/)
   [1970s
 * 
   ## Hand-Sequined Open Latticework Butterfly Gown
   
 * 
 * [Out of stock](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1970s-hand-sequined-open-latticework-butterfly-gown-no-label/)
 * 1960s Polka Dot Empire Dress – Size 2/4 to Pinterest (opens in a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1960s%20Polka%20Dot%20Empire%20Dress%20%E2%80%93%20Size%202%2F4&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2F1960s-polka-dot-empire-dress-size-2-4%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2FQuirk-Models1118-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊85156⌉ ⌊85163⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1960s-polka-dot-empire-dress-size-2-4/)
   [1960s
 * 
   ## Polka Dot Empire Dress
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=85653)
 * 1970s Sasson Cream Wool Skirt Suit, US 2/4 to Pinterest (opens in a new window)
   [](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1970s%20Sasson%20Cream%20Wool%20Skirt%20Suit%2C%20US%202%2F4&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2Fvintage-clothing-sasson-70s-suit%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F05%2FQuirk-E-commerce_20220327_1297-1024x1024.jpg)
 *  [ ⌊1817⌉ ⌊1819⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/vintage-clothing-sasson-70s-suit/)
   [1970sSasson
 * 
   ## Cream Wool Skirt Suit
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=2309)
 * 1970s/1980s L.L.Bean Khaki Belted Safari Field Jacket – Modern Men’s L/XL, 44
   Chest to Pinterest (opens in a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1970s%2F1980s%20L.L.Bean%20Khaki%20Belted%20Safari%20Field%20Jacket%20%E2%80%93%20Modern%20Men%E2%80%99s%20L%2FXL%2C%2044%20Chest&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2Fvintage-ll-bean-safari-jacket%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F07%2FDean-Lepi_April20265599-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊91666⌉ ⌊91205⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/vintage-ll-bean-safari-jacket/)
   [1970s/1980sL.L.Bean
 * 
   ## Khaki Belted Safari Field Jacket – Modern Men’s L/XL, 44 Chest
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=91541)
 * 1960s Gentry Penney’s Wool Tweed Blazer to Pinterest (opens in a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1960s%20Gentry%20Penney%E2%80%99s%20Wool%20Tweed%20Blazer&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2F1960s-gentry-penneys-wool-tweed-blazer%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F11%2FFUJIFILM-3064-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊80041⌉ ⌊80038⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1960s-gentry-penneys-wool-tweed-blazer/)
   [1960s
 * 
   ## Gentry Penney’s Wool Tweed Blazer
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=80431)
 * 1980s/90s Albert Nippon Yellow Floral Silk Dress to Pinterest (opens in a new
   window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=1980s%2F90s%20Albert%20Nippon%20Yellow%20Floral%20Silk%20Dress&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2F1980s-90s-albert-nippon-yellow-floral-silk-dress%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2FDSCF3510-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊29720⌉ ⌊29729⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/1980s-90s-albert-nippon-yellow-floral-silk-dress/)
   [1980s/1990s
 * 
   ## Albert Nippon Yellow Floral Silk Dress
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=30289)
 * Late 1970s/early 1980s Yves Saint Laurent Taupe Suede Tassel Knee-High Boots 
   | Modern US 5.5/6 to Pinterest (opens in a new window)[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?description=Late%201970s%2Fearly%201980s%20Yves%20Saint%20Laurent%20Taupe%20Suede%20Tassel%20Knee-High%20Boots%20%7C%20Modern%20US%205.5%2F6&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fproduct%2Fstylish-vintage-yves-saint-laurent-taupe-suede-boots%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshopquirkla.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F04%2FAccessories-January-20263080-1024x1024.webp)
 *  [ ⌊88712⌉ ⌊88707⌉ ](https://shopquirkla.com/product/stylish-vintage-yves-saint-laurent-taupe-suede-boots/)
   [Late 1970s/early 1980sYves Saint Laurent
 * 
   ## Taupe Suede Tassel Knee-High Boots
   
 * 
 * [Add to bag](https://shopquirkla.com/smart-sustainable-shopping-with-melynda-choothesa/?output_format=markdown&add-to-cart=92619)

## Adapting Sustainable Shopping to Your Life

**Think About Your Daily RoutineWhen building a wardrobe, consider how your clothes
fit into your everyday life. Whether you need versatile workwear, comfortable loungewear,
or pieces that transition well from day to night, it’s about finding what suits 
your lifestyle rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. Melynda’s experience
in styling across different industries has given her a unique perspective on how
to blend functionality with personal expression.

**Discover New Ways to Shop MindfullyTechnology has made it easier to shop with 
purpose. Melynda often recommends exploring platforms that prioritize ethical and
sustainable products. For example, her showroom, Quirk, offers a curated selection
of pre-loved pieces that balance style and sustainability. It’s less about finding
the “perfect” piece and more about discovering something that feels right for you.

## The Bigger Picture: Why Individual Choices Matter

### Conscious Consumerism and Collective Impact

 It’s easy to feel like one person’s shopping habits don’t make a difference, but
that’s not the case. Every thoughtful purchase contributes to a broader shift in
the fashion industry. When we choose brands that prioritize the planet and people,
we help set a new standard.

### Getting Involved Beyond Shopping

 Making sustainable choices isn’t limited to what you buy. Melynda also emphasizes
the importance of advocating for better practices within the industry. This could
mean supporting policies that promote ethical production or simply asking more questions
about where your clothes come from. The goal is to foster a more transparent, responsible
fashion ecosystem.

![Model holding out the red wool circle skirt to show its colorful scenic patchwork
and broad black hem border](https://shopquirkla.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/melynda-
e-com-stuff_20221212_186.jpg)

![](https://shopquirkla.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/melynda-e-com-stuff_20221212_291.
jpg)

![](https://shopquirkla.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/melynda-e-com-stuff_20221212_444-
1.jpg)

## Final Thoughts

 Melynda’s journey is a testament to how small, intentional changes can lead to 
a more conscious approach to fashion. It’s not about overhauling your closet overnight
but rather making choices that align with your values and lifestyle. By curating
a wardrobe filled with pieces that are meaningful and well-made, you’re not just
dressing better—you’re making a statement about the kind of world you want to live
in. If you’re curious to learn more or want to explore Melynda’s favorite sustainable
finds, check out www.shopquirkla.com for inspiration. It’s a space where thoughtful
fashion meets individuality—no cookie-cutter looks here, just pieces that help tell
your story.

###### Visit our boutique to find our curated vintage selection

Quirk BOUTIQUE, is located at 112 West 9th St. #200 Los Angeles, CA 90015

 [ ⌊Picture of Melynda Choothesa, CEO⌉ ](https://www.couturezen.com/)

####  Melynda Choothesa, CEO

Senior Fashion Stylist, Costume Designer, Fashion Designer, Art Director

With over 15 years of expertise in still photography, commercial fashion styling,
and costume design for motion pictures and television, Melynda stands out as a seasoned,
award-winning costume designer and fashion stylist. Her portfolio boasts collaborations
with industry luminaries such as Akon, Bad Bunny, Elijah Wood, and more. Melynda's
renowned vintage showroom and the "Quirk" ready-to-wear line are a testament to 
her inspiration drawn from global travels and original artwork. In addition to her
successful professional journey, she also delves into theatre and commercial acting,
having contributed to notable projects for Apple, Pepsi, and Universal Pictures.

## STILL INTERESTED? Here’s more

 [  ](https://shopquirkla.com/pioneering-sustainable-fashion-ebays-secondhand-runway-at-nyfw/)

## Pioneering Sustainable Fashion: eBay’s Secondhand Runway at NYFW

 *  [     September 30, 2024  ](https://shopquirkla.com/2024/09/30/)

 New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is synonymous with fresh trends, avant-garde designs,
and the epitome of luxury fashion. But this year, eBay turned heads by hosting its
first entirely secondhand runway show. This pioneering initiative has sparked conversations
across the fashion world, challenging the status quo of fast fashion and making 
a compelling case for sustainable alternatives.

 [  Read more  ](https://shopquirkla.com/pioneering-sustainable-fashion-ebays-secondhand-runway-at-nyfw/)

 [  ](https://shopquirkla.com/5-vintage-boutiques-in-los-angeles-you-must-visit/)

## 5 Vintage Boutiques in Los Angeles You Must Visit

 *  [     August 17, 2024  ](https://shopquirkla.com/2024/08/17/)

 Five Los Angeles vintage and resale destinations, with practical tips on appointments,
shopping routes, condition and finding pieces you will wear.

 [  Read more  ](https://shopquirkla.com/5-vintage-boutiques-in-los-angeles-you-must-visit/)

 [  ](https://shopquirkla.com/timeless-chic-embracing-the-essence-of-60s-70s-fashion/)

## Timeless Chic: Embracing the Essence of 60s-70s Fashion

 *  [     April 8, 2024  ](https://shopquirkla.com/2024/04/08/)

 The 1960s and 1970s, pivotal decades in fashion history, represent a cultural revolution
marked by expressive individuality. Discover the vintage elegance, eclectic patterns,
and bold silhouettes that define this enchanting era. Whether you're an aficionado
of retro styles or drawn to the nostalgia of yesteryears, join us on a vibrant journey
through 60s and 70s fashion trends.

 [  Read more  ](https://shopquirkla.com/timeless-chic-embracing-the-essence-of-60s-70s-fashion/)

 [  ](https://shopquirkla.com/the-timeless-appeal-of-vintage-leather-bags/)

## The Timeless Appeal of Vintage Leather Bags

 *  [     December 20, 2023  ](https://shopquirkla.com/2023/12/20/)

 Vintage leather bags possess a timeless appeal that transcends fleeting fashion
trends. Steeped in history, these bags have a unique charm and character, often 
telling a story. The patina they develop over the years, the worn-in feel, and the
subtle imperfections all contribute to their allure.

 [  Read more  ](https://shopquirkla.com/the-timeless-appeal-of-vintage-leather-bags/)

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