About Us
Born from a lifelong love of fashion, people, and the planet,Real Life Style represents a necessary shift in the way we engage with fashion. Rooted in SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, along with the principles of the circular economy and collective accountability, we empower individuals to make ethical fashion choices—without compromising on style.
We Believe that fashion and sustainability can, and should, go hand in hand. By redefining ownership and access, we encourage consumers to make informed choices, reduce reliance on fast fashion, and collectively work toward a future where sustainability is an achievable standard for the industry. Our Mission is to collaborate with and amplify voices in the sustainable fashion movement, platform local designers, and expand access to global brands. We seek to destigmatize fashion rental, normalize mindful consumption, and challenge the culture of overconsumption.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Mimi Mvakali, affectionately known as Real Life Gold on social media, is a lawyer and sustainability professional dedicated to amplifying the intrinsic link between human rights and the environment. With a deep-seated commitment to people and the planet, her career has been shaped by a passion for the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Over the years, Mvakali became increasingly aware of her own environmental footprint, prompting a shift toward more intentional consumption. This awakening aligned with her personal journey to curate a wardrobe that was both stylish and sustainable. After years of empty overshopping, she found herself with a collection that lacked investment-worthy pieces—items that could last for years or even be passed down to her daughter one day. Committed to supporting local, African, and sustainable brands, she often faced barriers in affordability, accessibility, and practicality.
Determined to bridge this gap, she conceptualized Real Life Style, a fashion rental business designed to offer a sustainable alternative to fast fashion and traditional shopping. The fashion rental industry directly addresses the overproduction and overconsumption that drive fashion waste, and Real Life Style seeks to shift consumer culture by reducing demand for new clothing—ultimately lessening the industry's social and environmental impact.
