Tam from LMB recently caught up with Taryn from Curated Closets to chat about their exciting upcoming thrift market hosted at Valley Road Motorcycles.
From unique thrift finds and local vendors to the growing love for sustainable fashion, the conversation gave listeners a sneak peek into what visitors can expect on the day.
Get ready for a vibrant shopping experience filled with style, community, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Q: What inspired Curated Closets Thrift Market to host this event at Valley Road Motorcycles?
Honestly, it came from seeing a gap in the thrift space — especially for men. I’ve been asked so many times about men’s thrift and where guys can comfortably shop preloved fashion without feeling out of place. Valley Road Motorcycles felt like the perfect fit because it naturally brings together masculine energy, lifestyle culture, fashion, bikes, music, and community.
I wanted to create a thrift market where both men and women feel equally welcome and inspired to shop consciously, while still enjoying an experience that feels trendy, social, and exciting.
Q: What can visitors expect from the market on the 6th of June?
A whole vibe!
Visitors can expect a warm indoor winter market atmosphere filled with good music, amazing food, drinks, bikes, sports on the big screen, and of course — incredible thrift finds. It’s more than just shopping; it’s an experience. We really wanted to create a relaxed social environment where people can spend the day, hang out with friends or partners, and enjoy the culture around thrifting and local creativity.
Q: Will there be a focus on vintage fashion, streetwear, luxury thrift, or a mix of everything?
Definitely a mix of everything.
There’ll be current streetwear, vintage pieces, trendy everyday fashion, big(& ish) brands, accessories, and unique statement items. Curated Closets has never been about only vintage — it’s about celebrating fashion in all forms. Whether you love timeless classics, oversized streetwear, online / branded fashion, or hidden gems, there’ll be something for everyone.
Q: Why do you think thrift shopping has become so popular in South Africa recently?
People are becoming more conscious — both financially and environmentally.
With fast fashion and online shopping growing so rapidly, landfills simply can’t keep up with the waste being created. Thrifting gives clothing a second life while helping people shop more sustainably and affordably.
At the same time, I think people are craving nostalgia and individuality again. Everything in modern life moves so quickly, and thrifting slows things down a bit. It becomes intentional. There’s also something incredibly exciting about the “treasure hunt” aspect — you never know what amazing piece you’re going to find.
Q: What makes Curated Thrift Market different from other local markets?
I don’t really like to compare or compete because every market in GQ has its own unique identity and community, and I support many of them myself – be it being a stall holder or shopping the markets.
But I do think Curated Thrift Market brings a different kind of energy — especially with the masculine influence and inclusion of men’s fashion. It combines fashion, lifestyle, bikes, food, music, and social culture in one space. It’s curated to feel modern, welcoming, and experience-driven rather than just another shopping market.
Q: Can visitors expect any special activities, food vendors, music, or entertainment on the day?
Absolutely!
There’ll be food vendors, drinks, music, entertainment, special offers, charity, and a few surprises throughout the day. We’re also creating spaces where people can relax, connect, and enjoy the atmosphere beyond just shopping.
And for those not necessarily into fashion — there’ll still be bikes, beers, sports on the big screen, and a really good social atmosphere.
Follow @CuratedClosets_tm on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on all the surprises leading up to the event.
Q: What advice would you give someone attending a thrift market for the very first time?
Treat it like a treasure hunt!
The best thrift finds are often the unexpected ones. Keep an open mind, take your time browsing, and don’t be afraid to try things on. Sometimes an item looks completely different once it’s styled properly.
We’ll also have a comfortable fitting space available with a full-length mirror and seating so shoppers can really enjoy the experience and feel confident in what they’re buying.
Q: How important is sustainable fashion and reusing clothing in today’s world?
It’s incredibly important.
The fashion industry creates a massive amount of waste globally, and sustainable shopping helps reduce that impact. By reusing and re-loving clothing, we’re extending the life cycle of garments, reducing landfill waste, and slowing down unnecessary consumption.
But sustainability also doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Thrifting proves that you can look amazing, shop affordably, support small businesses, and make more environmentally conscious choices all at the same time.
Q: Are local small businesses and creatives involved in the market?
Very much so. Supporting local businesses is a huge part of what this market is about.
GQ has such an incredible small business culture, and honestly, almost everyone here has had a side hustle at some point. In today’s economy, supporting local creatives, entrepreneurs, and independent vendors is more important than ever.
This market is about building community as much as it is about fashion.
Q: Where can people find more information and stay updated about the event happening on the 6th of June?
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @CuratedClosets_tm
That’s where we’ll be posting all event updates, vendor reveals, special offers, charity initiatives, and sneak peeks leading up to the CURATED THRIFT MARKET.
