The way we shop for fashion is evolving fast. The fashion industry is transforming as consumers increasingly seek sustainable alternatives to traditional retail.
At the forefront of this change is Hauteline, a contemporary marketplace redefining shopping by connecting consumers, brands, and the planet through a shared commitment to sustainability and style. Founded in 2023 by Kristie Chow and Michelle Li, this New York-based platform offers curated access to high-quality, eco-conscious products from brands around the world.
A Personal Mission Born from Industry Experience
The idea for Hauteline comes from the founders’ direct experience in fashion. Kristie Chow, Founder & CEO, said:
“Hauteline was born out of a personal need—living in New York City in our 20s and working in fashion exposed us to an incredible variety of brands and styles. At the same time, we became acutely aware of how wasteful the fashion industry can be, which inspired us to dream of dressing more sustainably.”
Their journey led them to explore rental and secondhand fashion, but they found a gap in the market.
Kristie Chow, Founder & CEO, said: “When we looked at the rental options available at the time, we couldn’t find anything that aligned with our sense of style or our desire for thoughtful curation and value. This gap in the market inspired us to start Hauteline.”
Their solution addresses the disconnect between sustainable fashion and the sophisticated tastes of modern consumers.
Curated Marketplace with Purpose
Hauteline is more than a rental platform; it is a carefully curated collection of clothing, accessories, and lifestyle items that prioritize both design and environmental responsibility. The platform features pieces from global and emerging designers curated by Hauteline, including Mirror Palais and Orseund Iris, creating a modern marketplace for conscious shoppers.
By supporting brands that embrace sustainable practices, Hauteline makes it easier for customers to align their fashion choices with their values. The platform helps users discover products made with eco-friendly materials, low-impact manufacturing, and fair labor practices.
The Philosophy Behind the Name
The company’s name reflects its ethos. Kristie Chow said: “We hoped to create a name that is authentic to the sartorial roots of our company, so we started with ‘Haute’ as a reference to haute couture. To reflect our sustainable, circular model—where you can rent pieces for all of life’s special moments—we added ‘line’—introducing the image of a line that loops around again and again.”
This approach highlights their focus on longevity and reuse.
Promoting Circularity in Fashion
Hauteline plays a key role in advancing circularity within the fashion industry by encouraging responsible consumption and extending the life of garments. The platform offers resale programs, rentals, and clothing exchanges, inviting customers to rethink traditional fashion consumption and choose more sustainable alternatives.
This model reduces demand for new production, minimizes environmental impact, and gives products a longer life. By providing a platform for buying, selling, and swapping gently used items, Hauteline helps reduce waste and supports a circular fashion economy.
Accessible Luxury Without Commitment
Hauteline’s business model centers on “rentals for tastemakers” with no subscription required. The platform ships nationwide, allowing customers to wear pieces as much as they like during their rental period. The company also operates a showroom in New York City, where customers can try on unique styles in person.
Building a Community Movement
Hauteline fosters a community that values conscious shopping and environmental stewardship. Through this digital marketplace, the company empowers shoppers to make mindful choices that benefit both people and the planet.
