Dara Perlman

Dara is the creative force behind @sustainablyslaying, and is a Sullivan County-based Thrift Queen with a passion for transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Inspired by her niece’s inventive use of a balloon as a Barbie dress, Dara’s Fashion Fusion concept emerged during the pandemic, leading her to craft unique garments by fusing and repurposing existing materials.

From distinctive masks made from accumulated clothing bags stored in her closet, to inventive purses crafted from unconventional items like a discarded plastic window cling, Dara’s journey embodies sustainability and creativity.

Rejecting fashion norms since high school, she champions patience and purpose in thrifting, advocates against fast fashion’s exploitative practices, and meticulously removes stitches instead of cutting, embodying a commitment to environmental consciousness. Through Sustainably Slaying, Dara strives to inspire others, emphasizing that impactful and unique fashion doesn’t demand excessive spending or conformity to trends but rather a mindful and inventive approach to what already exists. “You already have everything that you need.”