Today we’d like to introduce you to Mohamad Kandiel
Hi Mohamad, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
New Era Thrifted began as a simple way to clear out my old clothes using Walmart racks. What started as a personal project quickly grew into something more significant. For the first year and a half, we were hitting the streets with pop-ups at vibrant spots like Montrose Market and Post Houston, building a loyal following and honing our craft. In 2022, we took a big step forward with a store setup at Railway Heights, where things really started to take off. After graduating with a degree in Construction Management from the University of Houston, I decided to focus on expanding the business. When the opportunity arose to open a store on the University of Houston campus, it felt like the perfect fit—not only because it’s where I graduated, but also because of the incredible support and feedback we received from previous pop-up events there. Since the Spring Semester of 2024, New Era Thrifted has been proudly serving the UH community, and it’s been an amazing journey to see how far we’ve come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has definitely been far from smooth. There were plenty of challenges along the way, like dealing with unpredictable weather that could wipe out days of preparation for a market. Learning how to navigate and grow on social media while juggling the countless other tasks that come with building a business was another big hurdle. On top of that, I had to balance school, work, and running the business all at once. But every difficult step has been a lesson in disguise, helping me grow and become more resilient.
We’ve been impressed with New Era Thrifted, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
New Era Thrifted is more than just a vintage clothing store—it’s a community-driven hub for fashion enthusiasts who appreciate unique, sustainable style. We specialize in curating high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. What sets us apart is our dedication to offering an authentic thrifting experience, combined with a deep connection to the local community, especially the University of Houston, where we’re proudly located.
Our brand stands out because we believe in the stories that clothes can tell. Each item we carry has been carefully selected to ensure it reflects our commitment to sustainability and individuality. We’re not just selling clothes; we’re offering a chance to own a piece of fashion history, to stand out, and to do so responsibly.
I’m most proud of the brand’s growth and the support we’ve received from the community. We started as a small project and have grown into a recognized name, not only within the university but also in the wider Houston area. This journey has been incredible, and it’s been fueled by the encouragement and loyalty of our customers.
At New Era Thrifted, we offer more than just clothing—we offer a way for people to express themselves while contributing to a more sustainable world. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece, a rare find, or just something unique, we’ve got something special waiting for you. We’re excited to continue growing and bringing more to the table, and we invite everyone to be a part of this journey with us.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
*Something that might surprise most people who know me or are familiar with New Era Thrifted is that my journey didn’t start in the fashion world at all—it began in construction. I graduated with a degree in Construction Management and spent a good portion of my early career focusing on building physical structures. But along the way, I discovered a passion for building something entirely different—a brand and a community centered around vintage fashion.
The transition from construction to entrepreneurship wasn’t something I ever planned. It was a leap of faith fueled by my love for unique, timeless clothing and a desire to create something meaningful that would resonate with others. My background in construction actually helped me in unexpected ways, from understanding the importance of a solid foundation (both literally and figuratively) to navigating the challenges of managing a growing business.
What’s truly surprising is that while most people see these two fields as completely unrelated, I’ve found they share a common thread: both are about creating something that lasts, something that has a story. Whether it’s a building or a brand, the principles of hard work, attention to detail, and a strong vision remain the same.
Pricing:
- Winterwear: $25
- Graphics: $10
- Polos & Buttons: $10
- Bottoms: $20
- Clearance: $5
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.newerathrifted.com/shop
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newerathrifted/
- Other: https://www.google.com/maps/dir//new+era+thrifted/data=!4m6!4m5!1m1!4e2!1m2!1m1!1s0x8640bf794afe6d01:0x2b3496b4096fbc3b?sa=X&ved=1t:3061&ictx=111
