Preloved Path

Geolocation Mobile Application | 2025 | UX Case Study

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Scope

The goal of this project was to design a mobile application to help Melburnians and tourists discover and engage with sustainable fashion through local second-hand, vintage, and consignment stores. Key features included GPS store discovery, sustainable fact popups, rewards, and sharing preloved fashion finds.

Process

I researched second-hand shopping behaviours, sustainability trends, and digital resale culture through market research and user interviews, gathering insights to shape the project’s direction. I developed user personas, mapped user journeys, and created wireframes to define key interaction points. Using Figma, I built an interactive prototype and iteratively refined features such as geolocation and storytelling through user testing to ensure the app was functional, engaging, and aligned with sustainability values.

Solution

Preloved Path enhances sustainable fashion discovery for Melburnians and tourists through an intuitive GPS map and easily accessible store information. Educational features, such as sustainability fact pop-ups, encourage awareness and reflection during each visit. Users can explore second-hand, vintage, and consignment stores, earn rewards, and share preloved fashion finds. User testing showed increased engagement, with participants reporting greater confidence navigating Melbourne’s preloved fashion scene and a stronger understanding of sustainable shopping practices.

UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUE

Through primary research and market analysis, three key insights were identified:

  • Many Melburnians aged 16–30 experience financial strain while prioritising sustainable consumption.

  • While platforms like Depop and Facebook Marketplace are widely used, users often seek in-person shopping experiences that connect them with local stores.

  • Vintage, op shops, and designer resale stores form an important part of Melbourne’s fashion culture, offering unique style and opportunities for mindful, circular consumption.

DEFINING GOALS

To guide the development of the Preloved Path app, key design goals were established:

  • Increase foot traffic to independent second-hand and vintage stores, helping them compete with larger retailers and online platforms.

  • Inspire users to discover new shops through exploration and uncover unique preloved fashion across Melbourne.

  • Build an interactive, connected community where users can share finds, post photos, and engage with like-minded sustainable fashion enthusiasts.

BRAINSTORMING SOLUTIONS

To address the design goals, low-fidelity prototypes were developed and refined through user testing. Key app functionalities include:

  • A selection of ten local second-hand and vintage stores for users to explore.

  • Pop-up facts and information that educate and guide users through sustainable fashion choices.

  • A dedicated space where users can share finds, post photos, and connect with like-minded fashion enthusiasts.

  • Users earn rewards and benefits for visiting stores and engaging with the community, supporting ongoing participation and local businesses.