December’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Grace Kirby to support the start-up of a sustainable clothing subscription box service called Circle Goods.

“We’re partnering with local Ottawa-based fashion curators to select items specifically for each customer,” explains Grace. “Whether our products have been sourced at auctions, thrift stores, or through consignment, everything will be second-hand and everything will be the best quality.”

“Each curator,” Grace continues, “will represent their own brand and unique style, and customers will have one month to wear and love their curated items before returning them to us. We will then wash the products, re-style, and send the clothing on to the next customer. This model creates a sustainable fashion cycle.”

“I’m dedicated to the vision of sustainable fashion and am eager to find ways to make this vision a reality,” says Grace. “I want my clothes to represent who I am while aligning with my values. I have at times felt forced into buying fast-fashion, and am starting Circle Goods to seek a solution that works for everyone.”

Circle Goods is having a launch party this Saturday, December 14, at Happy Goat Coffee. In addition to enjoying live music and great company, you’ll be able to meet the curators, check out their styles, and use a free measuring station to set up a Circle Goods profile.

Grace is an undergraduate student at Carleton University, studying biology.