Meet Sabrina Soar: The Founder Redefining New Zealand’s Luxury Fashion Scene
When it comes to curating luxury with heart and hustle, few are doing it quite like Sabrina Soar. As the founder of Exchange Store – New Zealand’s premier online destination for pre-loved high-end fashion – Sabrina has carved out a niche that merges exclusivity, sustainability, and style. With a showroom on the horizon and global expansion in her sights, she’s on a mission to bring premium fashion to the forefront of the local market. We caught up with the Auckland-based entrepreneur to talk resale trends, her authentication process, and why Chanel will always be her forever brand.
Hey, Sabrina Soar! How’s Business?
Busy! – We are working hard to open a show room before spring & also looking at how we can start working with international clients to increase our bigger ticket product range.
What inspired you to launch Exchange Store, and what gap were you hoping to fill in New Zealand’s fashion landscape?
There’s a gap in New Zealand for high-end luxury. It’s difficult to sell items locally at fair value, and access is limited to a few boutiques in Auckland and one in Queenstown. Our online luxury marketplace makes premium fashion accessible nationwide.
Luxury resale has taken off globally – what sets Exchange Store apart from other platforms, both locally and internationally?
We maintain strict quality control and are selective about what we sell and who we work with locally. We’ve also built a strong online community, which I am super proud of.
You’ve created a platform that balances accessibility with exclusivity. How do you maintain that elevated feel while keeping the experience seamless for both buyers and sellers?
We focus on the full customer journey—fast shipping, luxury packaging, and attention to detail, including a signature brand scent. High-ticket items are sold via private sale, and we take vintage sourcing requests. Concierge clients receive styled content from our in-house creators to ensure premium advertising.
Authenticity is clearly a priority for Exchange Store. Can you walk us through your verification process and your partnership with My Haute?
We authenticate all items under $1,000 NZD in-house using strict protocols. I’m trained in luxury authentication through paid courses and consult Nancy if unsure. Anything over $1,000 goes to her—she’s the best and works with NZ Police. We work exclusively with concierge clients, mostly by referral. Selling counterfeits is fraudulent and a serious crime.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone new to buying or selling luxury fashion online?
Start slow and do your research—on both the product and the platform. Trust and transparency are everything in this space. If you’re buying, always ask for authentication, original receipts, or certificates. If you’re selling, keep your items in excellent condition and take clear, well-lit photos. And most importantly, work with people and platforms who know the value of what you’re offering.
What trends or shifts are you seeing in the luxury resale space – and how do you see the future of pre-loved fashion evolving in New Zealand?
We’re seeing a real appreciation for iconic pieces, especially with so many brands re-releasing archival collections—like the Murakami Louis Vuitton range and the Jean Paul Gaultier Shoulder Birkin. It’s bringing renewed attention to the originals, which makes the resale market even more exciting. Buyers are becoming more educated and intentional, looking for pieces that are not only stylish but collectible. In New Zealand, I think there’s huge potential for growth. As more people embrace pre-loved fashion, we’ll see greater demand for authenticity, quality, and curated experiences.
If you could only wear one luxury brand for the rest of your life, what would it be – and why?
Chanel, hands down. It’s timeless, it holds its value, and every piece feels like wearable art. Whether it’s a vintage flap bag or a tailored jacket, Chanel has this unique ability to elevate your entire look. It’s the ultimate investment in both style and substance.
Discover more at exchange-store.com and follow along on Instagram @exchange___store for the latest drops, vintage gems, and luxe inspiration.