To bring this vision to life, Choothesa partnered with Well Cloth’d, a New York-based organization specializing in clothing donations for those in need. Together, they’ve transformed Quirk into a “free department store” where style meets sustainability. With fitting rooms, curated racks, and personalized attention from volunteer stylists, the experience mirrors shopping at a high-end retailer—combined with the power of community support.
This initiative, fueled by the relentless energy of volunteers and the generosity of donors, has caught the attention of Angelenos across the city.
How does Quirk maintain such a polished shopping experience? It begins with Choothesa’s professional expertise. Drawing on her background in retail management, she has implemented systems that ensure order and quality. Volunteers are screened with questions like, “Do you have retail experience?” to find supporters who share her vision of creating an uplifting environment.
“We want people who understand the importance of a positive and organized experience,” she explains. Volunteers are trained to treat everyone who walks through the door as a client, not a victim—putting respect and care at the center of their work.
While initially uncertain about how long this initiative could last, Choothesa is now planning “months ahead.” The need for sustainable recovery efforts is evident, and Quirk is committed to being there for the long haul.
“We’ve seen lives transform,” she shares. “A great outfit can do more than change how someone looks. It can change how they feel about themselves—and that confidence spreads into every facet of their life.”
When you step into a recovery store like Quirk, here’s what you’ll find:
After losing so much, the joy of putting together a wardrobe with care and individuality can make a world of difference.
Quirk’s existence is also a testament to the potential of combining sustainability and community support. By giving donated items a second life, the boutique not only helps wildfire survivors but also promotes eco-friendly practices.
Sustainable fashion post-wildfire goes far beyond temporary relief. It’s a movement that challenges the norms of crisis recovery, showing that support can be both functional and beautiful.
If you’re inspired by what Quirk and Well Cloth’d are doing, here are some ways to get involved:
The wildfire recovery stores emerging in Los Angeles are more than just spaces to pick up a pair of jeans or a jacket—they’re places of hope, restoration, and connection. Shopping at Quirk isn’t about charity; it’s about choice, agency, and dignity. Through fashion, personal styling, and a sense of community, Melynda Choothesa and her team prove that recovery can be beautiful, one outfit at a time.
Want to learn more or join the movement? Share this story with your network to spread awareness and inspire more people to support this incredible initiative!
Vintage fashion is no longer just for niche collectors or costume enthusiasts—it’s a movement that celebrates individuality, sustainability, and timeless style. If there’s one place that embodies this ethos perfectly, it’s Los Angeles. With its rich history, laid-back vibe, and thriving creative community, LA has firmly established itself as a
Awards season has officially begun, and it kicked off in style at the Golden Globes 2025. This year’s ceremony, held at the iconic Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, celebrated achievements in both film and television with unforgettable moments, history-making wins, and of course, jaw-dropping fashion on the red carpet.
Awards season has officially begun, and it kicked off in style at the Golden Globes 2025. This year’s ceremony, held at the iconic Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, celebrated achievements in both film and television with unforgettable moments, history-making wins, and of course, jaw-dropping fashion on the red carpet.
When @kaiserpermanente invited Couture Zen to design costumes for their 2025 Rose Parade float, it was an opportunity to create something extraordinary. Centered on the float’s theme, “More Healthy Days for More Healthy Years,” and the parade’s overarching theme, “Best Day Ever,” this project celebrated health, resilience, and the joy
