Kirsta

Mutual Muse founder, Kirsta grew up in the U.S., playing hide and seek amongst the racks of second-hand shops while her mom (sorry, mum)  hunted for a deal. She learned quickly that fashion is more than just something you put on; it is a powerful tool of self-expression and a way to showcase your values and beliefs. 

Years later, Kirsta moved to Melbourne, Australia and noticed there wasn’t the same high-end consignment culture that is so common in the U.S.  So, with a couple of key pieces and some space carved out on her kitchen table, she started Mutual Muse and began selling at markets around Melbourne.  As she connected with more like-minded souls, Mutual Muse eventually grew roots and settled into its first permanent location in Thornbury. 

Fast forward a few years, and Mutual Muse now has two locations, an online store, and plans to keep spreading the joy of secondhand fashion around Australia. While the brand has gone beyond Kirsta’s dining room, you can still regularly spot her in store, or catch her sharing her musings and answering questions over on Instagram.

About Mutual Muse

Mutual Muse is a vibrant secondhand marketplace buying and selling gently used secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories for all genders.  Since 2014, we’ve been building a community that celebrates fashion as a source of joy, exploration, and creative expression. More than just a shop, Mutual Muse is a place designed to inspire each other and our community. You are our muse. 

To be truly joyful and inspirational, we also need to be sustainable and considered.  We are all too aware that fashion is a commodity trapped in a linear cycle of make-wear-dispose.  We seek to curve that line and extend the lifeline of clothing by providing a fun, accessible, and easy way to shop the best of modern secondhand fashion.

Discover us in-store or online.

Our Values

Every action we take is guided by our values. More than words on paper, we believe that if we live our values, we can create a more joyful world for everyone. So whether you are a team member, a customer, or just a fan of our instagram page, here is what we stand for:

We provide an alternative to buying new clothes.

Participating in the circular economy and creating a space to buy, sell, and trade second hand fashion urges all of us to think about the lifespan of our purchases and be more critical of the fashion industry. 

We encourage joy and exploration. 

There is no right way of doing things. Playfulness encourages us to be open to new ideas and new voices – it encourages joy, exploration and creative expression.

Inclusivity and accessibility is not a static position. 

We believe all individuals, regardless of ability or background, have an equal voice in any conversation. We strive for diversity, equity & inclusion in all facets of Mutual Muse whether this be the community we serve or within the Mutual Muse team.

No person is an island.

Collaboration is at the core of how we run our business and how we make decisions for our customers and staff. We help each other when we can and we are open to receiving help, teaching and learning.

Wear what feels good on your own body. 

Personal style is an expression of one’s unique perspectives and interests – whether that be the latest trends or cultural and creative influences. We encourage the discovery and evolution of personal style.

We speak with kindness and empathy. 

We utilise direct and respectful communication within the team, and any conflict or disagreement is handled in a timely manner. We prioritise physical and emotional safety at all times.

No role is stagnant. 

From ongoing buyer training to expanding the number of stores, we believe career growth is a necessary part of our business. For those who wish to expand and progress there is endless opportunity within Mutual Muse. 

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