In an era where sustainability and affordability intersect with high fashion, PURSU Style is making waves by redefining the luxury handbag market. Founded by Joanna Nowacka Mata, the company offers carefully curated pre-loved designer handbags, making premium accessories accessible to fashion lovers while promoting a more sustainable approach to luxury.
The journey behind PURSU Style is deeply personal for Mata. Growing up in post-communist Poland, thrifting was more than just a hobby—it was a necessity. “Thrifting was my secret weapon to score one-of-a-kind fashion finds that showed off my unique style and allowed me to express myself,” she shares.This love for pre-owned fashion turned into a lifelong dedication, with handbags always holding a special place in her heart. However, affordability remained a challenge. ‘All my designer handbags are second-hand because that was the only way to have them” she explains.
The turning point came during the COVID-19 pandemic when Mata faced reduced work hours at her full-time job. Instead of viewing it as a setback, she saw an opportunity. ‘I came up with the idea of sourcing pre-loved handbags and selling them on reselling platforms,’ she recalls. What started as a side hustle soon gained momentum, ultimately inspiring the launch of PURSU Style in 2023.
Unlike many resale businesses that focus only on pristine or near-perfect items, PURSU Style embraces a broader spectrum of pre-owned handbags. From gently used to well-loved pieces in need of restoration, the company invests time and care into revitalizing each bag. Every handbag undergoes a meticulous evaluation and, if necessary, a comprehensive ‘handbag spa treatment’ to restore its beauty and functionality. This hands-on approach to restoration sets PURSU Style apart, ensuring that even well-worn designer pieces can be given a second life.
Beyond offering luxury at a more accessible price, PURSU Style challenges the fashion industry’s wasteful cycle by encouraging responsible consumption. By choosing a restored handbag over a newly produced one, consumers can indulge in designer fashion while minimizing environmental impact. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship makes it a unique player in the resale market—where quality, restoration, and conscious shopping go hand in hand
“We want to make sure that people do not regret their purchases and fall in love with the idea of thrifting,” says Mata. By offering a collection of restored designer bags, the company not only extends the lifecycle of luxury goods but also reshapes perceptions around second-hand shopping.
For Mata, thrifting was more than just a way to shop—it was a means of self-expression. With limited access to designer fashion, second-hand pieces became her way of curating a unique style that truly reflected her personality. This personal journey ultimately inspired the creation of PURSU Style, a platform designed to empower other like-minded, fashion-forward women.
With a growing community of fashion enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers, PURSU Style is more than just a resale platform—it’s a movement toward mindful fashion choices. Mata’s vision extends beyond selling handbags; she wants to provide women with the opportunity to access luxury fashion in a way that is both sustainable and personal. ‘We are more than a handbag store; we are a platform that encourages women to embrace their individuality and pursue their goals with confidence,’ she emphasizes
As the demand for sustainable fashion continues to rise, PURSU Style stands out as a pioneer in making designer handbags both affordable and eco-friendly. Through a combination of expert curation, thoughtful restoration, and a passion for thrifting, the brand is proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.
For more information about PURSU Style, visit www.pursustyle.com or follow them on Instagram at @pursustyle.
