Slow Fashion: Maria Forero of Moda con Mars On Why They Are Embracing Slow Fashion and Renewable Consumption
An Interview With Martita Mestey
If I could start a movement, it would be to make slow fashion accessible for everyone. Too often, people associate sustainable fashion with either being expensive, time-consuming, or limited in style options. I want to change that by showing people that they can embrace slow fashion in a way that fits their lifestyle.
As ‘slow fashion’ grows in popularity, more fashion companies are jumping on the bandwagon. Renewable consumption has been gaining popularity for a while, as people recognize its importance, and many fashion companies want to be a part of this change. In this interview series, we are talking to business leaders in the fashion industry to discuss why they are embracing slow fashion and renewable consumption. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Maria Forero.
Maria (Mars) Forero is the founder of Moda con Mars, an online curated thrift and styling service that blends sustainability and fashion. Maria specializes in sourcing unique second-hand pieces, personal styling, and shopping experiences. She helps clients build wardrobes that reflect their individuality and embraces conscious slow-fashion. Her approach is to curate styles that feel authentic.
With a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and an intuitive understanding of personal aesthetics, Maria transforms the shopping experience into an art form. Whether she’s uncovering rare vintage finds, styling clients for special occasions, or guiding them toward a more intentional wardrobe, she ensures that fashion becomes a tool for confidence and self-discovery.
In addition to her small business, Maria is a PR specialist, balancing her expertise in media relations with her passion for storytelling and brand building. This dual perspective allows her to shape Moda con Mars into more than just a business, it’s a community-driven brand that champions individuality, sustainability and the transformative power of style.
Thank you for joining us! To start, can you share a bit about your early background and how it influenced your journey into slow fashion?
I have always had a passion for dressing people up, looking for unique finds at thrift stores and being that friend that knew how to dress on a budget. In college, my friends and I would frequent thrift stores more than bars, exploring every thrift shop in town. Over time, I built a wardrobe of one-of-a-kind pieces, each telling its own history, tracing back to different decades and places around the world.
On a more personal note, I also became aware of how much fabric choice affected my comfort. Living in Miami, I naturally tend to overheat, so when I discovered the breathability of slow fashion materials like cotton, linen, and silk, it was a game-changer for fashion. I realized I could feel both stylish and comfortable by choosing quality and sustainable fabrics.
What inspired you to pursue a career in slow fashion, and can you share the story behind your decision?
The connection between fashion, accessibility, and sustainability was what drew me to create Moda con Mars. I have always been that friend who would open their closet to those in need of the perfect dress for a function, and my idea of fun has always been to take my friends on a shopping adventure at a thrift store, showing them how they could also find their perfect pieces.
Over time, I started noticing a pattern: some people absolutely hated physically going shopping. While we live in a consumer-driven world, convenience is still the key in reaching people. The thought of sorting through thrift store racks was not everyones cup of tea. For me it was like stepping into Disney World. It’s no surprise that people are drawn to fast fashion — it’s convenient, cheap, and just a few clicks away.
That’s where Moda con Mars comes in. I was looking to bridge the gap by making slow fashion just as effortless as fast fashion and also an affordable option. Through my business, I offer personal styling, curated secondhand bundles, and even my own Mars’ Curated Collection, a handpicked “look book” of vintage and thrifted items for people to look through. My goal is to help people shop more sustainably and most importantly feel comfortable and confident in their clothes. Pieces that are breathable, stylish and given a second life, instead of ending up in a landfill.
Who is your fashion hero or heroine, and why do they inspire you?
I want to take a moment to shout out two of my sorority sisters that have inspired me since college, Victoria True and Lisa Lam. They have always had a unique sense of style, sourcing beautiful vintage pieces and revamping them to make them their own. They are my fashion sheroes, and to this day when they compliment an outfit I put together or acknowledge how well my business is doing, it feels like the ultimate nod of approval.
What inspires me most about Victoria and Lisa is their fearless approach to fashion, wearing pieces they truly love and creating their own vision instead of just following trends. Like me, they love hosting themed parties, but they take it a step further by actually reworking secondhand pieces to fit their style. They give these items a second life and fit their unique style.
What’s the most intriguing or memorable experience you’ve had since starting your career in slow fashion?
One of the most memorable experiences in my slow fashion journey is seeing people’s faces light up when I put together an outfit for them, especially when it’s something they never would have picked for themselves but ends up being exactly what they were looking for. There’s this moment of surprise, followed by pure excitement, when they realize how perfectly it fits their style, their personality, and even a part of themselves they hadn’t fully expressed before. That feeling, that mix of confidence and joy, is what makes this all so rewarding for me.
As a successful leader in the industry, which three character traits have been key to your success? Can you provide a story or example for each?
As I continue to grow in the fashion space, three key traits have been essential to my journey: confidence, creativity, and the ability to research and adjust.
- Confidence — Fashion is personal, and styling others requires a level of assurance in my own vision. I remember sourcing a wedding guest dress for someone who usually gravitated toward simple options. She was hesitant about wearing a bold red dress, unsure if it would feel like “her,” but I encouraged her to trust the process. The moment she tried it on, her entire demeanor changed, I could just see her confidence shine through. Sometimes, stepping outside your comfort zone is exactly what helps you find your own confidence.
- Creativity — Slow fashion is all about reimagining what already exists. A skirt doesn’t have to be just a skirt, it can be a top, and a scarf can double as a blouse. I love finding new ways to style pieces beyond their original purpose. That’s why I include accessories in my curated bundles, giving clients the chance to experiment and have fun with their wardrobes. Part of my service is guiding them through the versatility of the pieces I source, showing them how a single item can transform into multiple looks.
- Research & Adjusting — People’s preferences are constantly evolving, and I’ve learned that staying informed about consumer behavior, sustainable fabrics, brand preferences and styling techniques is just as important as having an eye for fashion. I try to source the perfect pieces that truly fit a person’s needs. Sometimes, it’s helping a client find a timeless leather jacket that pulls an outfit together, the right handbag that can transition from day to night, or statement jewelry that adds just the right touch of personality. Understanding what people really need, whether it’s styling guidance, must-have staples, or the finishing touches, has been essential in growing Moda con Mars and ensuring my clients feel confident.
How does your company embody and implement the principles of slow fashion, and what motivated you to adopt this approach?
Moda con Mars is built on the idea that fashion should be intentional and sustainable. I focus on curating secondhand and vintage pieces that extend the life cycle of clothing and help people build a wardrobe that reflects their individuality. Instead of chasing mass-produced trends, I encourage clients to embrace timeless, high-quality pieces that can be styled in multiple ways and elevate their style. My passion for slow fashion started with my own love for thrifting, finding unique items that tell a story and giving them a second life. I wanted to make that experience accessible for people who love the idea of slow fashion but don’t have the time or patience to sift through racks of secondhand clothing themselves.
What measures does your company take to ensure the sustainability and ethical integrity of your supply chain and production processes?
Sustainability is at the core of Moda con Mars. Instead of contributing to the production of new garments, I source everything secondhand, whether from thrift stores, vintage markets, or responsible resale platforms like Depop. My efforts keep clothing out of landfills and reduce the demand for resource-heavy fast fashion production.
Additionally, I focus on materials that are durable, breathable and comfortable, ensuring that pieces I select are made to last. By curating instead of producing, Moda con Mars eliminates the ethical concerns tied to fast fashion supply chains, such as exploitative labor and environmental damage.
Can you tell us about the materials you use in your products and how you ensure they are sourced sustainably?
Since I work primarily with secondhand and vintage clothing, my focus is on selecting high-quality, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, leather and wool which tend to be more breathable than synthetic alternatives. When sourcing, I pay close attention to fabric composition. Shopping secondhand naturally extends the life cycle of these materials, preventing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with new garment production.
Could you share some examples of how your company’s practices have benefited local communities or the environment?
Moda con Mars directly supports sustainable shopping habits by making secondhand fashion more accessible. Many of the pieces I source come from local thrift shops and vintage stores, which helps support small businesses and charities that rely on second hand sales. Additionally, by encouraging people to invest in quality, pre-loved clothing rather than fast fashion, I help reduce textile waste and the environmental impact of mass production. Clients have also shared how embracing slow fashion through my services has shifted their mindset, making them more conscious consumers in other areas of their lives.
What initiatives are you undertaking to educate consumers about the significance of slow fashion and sustainable consumption?
Education is a huge part of what I do. I don’t just sell clothes, I guide people into understanding how to make mindful fashion choices. Through social media, styling sessions, and my curated bundles, I share tips on how to maximize a wardrobe by reimagining pieces in different ways. I also guide clients through fabric choices and care instructions so they can extend the life of their clothing. Many people don’t realize how versatile their wardrobe can be until they see firsthand how a single item can be styled in multiple ways. My goal is to make slow fashion feel less like a restriction and more like an exciting, creative way to express personal style.
What are three essential things everyone should understand about slow fashion?
- Slow Fashion is about quality over quantity. Customers can curate a wardrobe with staple and unique pieces that actually last. They can invest in well-made clothing that saves money and resources in the long run.
- You don’t have to give up style for sustainability. Slow fashion isn’t just neutral basics, it can be bold, unique, and expressive. You can find stunning vintage designer pieces at a fraction of the price, each with its own history and craftsmanship that far surpasses mass-produced fast fashion. Some of my favorite fashion discoveries have happened while traveling, whether it’s stumbling upon a hidden gem in a local vintage shop or buying directly from artisans who handcraft their clothing with care. Knowing where my clothes come from adds another layer of appreciation, which is why I always make it a habit to check the tag, you’d be surprised what you can learn just by reading it!
- Shopping second hand is for everyone. A common misconception is that thrifting only caters to certain aesthetics or budgets, but in reality, it offers incredible versatility. Secondhand shopping provides access to unique, high-quality finds that aren’t limited by current trends. You can score rare vintage pieces, designer items and well-made wardrobe staples, all while making more eco-conscious choices.
Thank you for all that insight. Now, let’s dive into the core of our interview: What are the “5 Key Elements to Leading a Successful Slow Fashion Brand”? Please provide a story or example for each.
- Curation Over Consumption — Slow fashion isn’t about selling more, it’s about selling better. Early on, I realized that people wanted a more personalized shopping experience, so I built my business around curated styling. Instead of overwhelming clients with endless options, I help them refine their wardrobes with carefully selected, high-quality pieces that match their personal style.
- Creativity & Versatility — One of the best parts of slow fashion is learning how to make the most of what you already have. I once styled a client who was struggling to put together outfits with the pieces she owned. By simply rethinking how certain items could be worn, turning a dress into a layering piece, using a scarf as a top, she discovered a whole new wardrobe without actually buying anything new.
- Education & Storytelling — People connect with clothes when they know their history. When sourcing vintage pieces, I love researching the backstory of an item, where it came from, what era it’s from, or how it can be styled. Educating clients on fabric choices and care also empowers them to shop more mindfully.
- Sustainability as a Standard — Every decision I make for Moda con Mars is rooted in sustainability from prioritizing natural fibers, sourcing from ethical secondhand platforms or encouraging clients to invest in timeless pieces.
- Authenticity & Passion — Slow fashion is deeply personal, and people can tell when a brand is built on genuine passion. I didn’t start Moda con Mars just to sell clothes, I started it because I love helping people feel amazing in outfits that align with their values. That authenticity is what keeps clients coming back and spreading the word.
Do you have a favorite quote that has influenced your life? Can you share a story that illustrates its relevance to you?
I have come across many quotes in my lifetime that have been inspirational but one by Salma Hayek is most relevant to fashion. “People often say that ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder,’ and I say that the most liberating thing about beauty is realizing that you are the beholder. This empowers us to find beauty in places where others have not dared to look, including inside ourselves.
With your considerable influence, if you could start a movement to make a significant positive impact, what would it be?
If I could start a movement, it would be to make slow fashion accessible for everyone. Too often, people associate sustainable fashion with either being expensive, time-consuming, or limited in style options. I want to change that by showing people that they can embrace slow fashion in a way that fits their lifestyle. I envision a world where shopping sustainably isn’t seen as a sacrifice, but as an exciting and creative way to express personal style.
How can our readers stay updated with your work online?
They can visit my website Modaconmars.com, follow my business instagram @modaconmars or my personal instagram @mariaforero_
Thank you for sharing these fantastic insights. We appreciate your time and wish you continued success.
Slow Fashion: Maria Forero of Moda con Mars On Why They Are Embracing Slow Fashion and Renewable… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.