For today’s high school students, the norm of studying for exams, completing college applications and improving standardized test scores can be quite challenging- and even more so in the midst of a global pandemic. Despite the seemingly grim circumstances, 17-year-old Ainsley Abbitt is using her love for fashion to make an impact in her community.
A rising senior at Menchville High School, Abbitt has always been your typical, active student. She played club soccer and swam most of her life. As she matured, her focus shifted to more important things. Initially, Abbitt’s interest in the fashion and merchandise world was just a fun hobby. She started off beading necklaces, anklets, and rings, until she recognized the potential that her affinity for fashion had.
Since the beginning of the summer, Abbitt has devoted much of her time and energy to her business venture @wardrobe.by.ainsley. This is an Instagram account where Abbitt uploads pictures in lightly worn clothing items which are available to purchase for up to 75 percent off the retail price.
She was inspired to start this business after constantly seeing her clothes bagged up and sent to donation centers such as Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters thrift stores, and realizing that they may never get sold. So, Abbitt took it upon herself to resell her own clothing and donate the profits to different organizations.
She began using her own clothes, then family members and social media followers sent her more items to resell. Abbitt has sold over 50 articles of clothing and she has made upwards of $350 in less than three weeks.
“I am lucky to have followers and family who are willing to donate some of their old clothing to help keep this going,” she said.
After each $100 is made, the funds are distributed to a charity of her choice. Her first donation was made to BLM757 (Black Lives Matter), a movement that stands to fight against social injustice.
The second $100 will go to Active Minds, which is an organization that focuses on mental health for college students. The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America will receive the third donation in honor of her mother who has been battling the disease for years. It is Abbitt’s hope that her donation can contribute to research and help other families in similar situations.
Abbitt’s goal is to raise $1000 by the end of the summer and she hopes to continue her brand even after that goal in reached.
“There are so many willing charities who deserve the money and I hope to help out as much as I can,” she said.
You can support Ainsley’s business by visiting her Instagram page, @wardrobe.by.ainsley: https://instagram.com/wardrobe.by.ainsley?igshid=17ps9jy4ezphh.
Thank you so much, this is amazing