Schyler Marolf believes in the power of community. A recent graduate from Center Grove, Marolf always envisioned a path for herself that would involve helping those around her and boosting her local community. That path would lead her to Indiana University, and as it turned out, it was also a journey of self-discovery and entrepreneurship.
Part of Center Grove’s 2021 graduating class, Marolf quickly moved out of her home the week after graduation and headed south. A self-starter, her original intention was to put her helpful instincts to use as a social worker. But working to put herself through college, Marolf realized she was ready to embark on her most important journey yet — one in which she felt she could make a difference, albeit with a less traditional approach. She opened the doors to Eclaras, her secondhand, vintage boutique.
“I spent a long time trying to carve out a place where I felt like I belonged. Along the way, I realized something important: Life is a risk. It’s uncertain, it’s scary, and nothing is promised. So why play it safe in a world that rarely is? I knew I could either take the risk to build something meaningful or take the risk of always wondering ‘what if,’” Marolf said.
Eclaras is nestled in the heart of downtown Bloomington, located at 340 S. Walnut St., Suite 1 & 2. Marolf’s shop focuses on sustainable fashion and conscious living, allowing other merchants to rent booth space in her store — opening up more options for customers and sellers alike. She allows resellers to run their space as though it were their own shop, but without the overhead and hassle.
Additionally, the vintage store offers curated “Thrift Bundles.” These secondhand clothing boxes bring the fun of thrifting straight to the customer without the hassle of shopping. They are handpicked based on style, sizing and noted preferences. Thrift Bundles are available at tiered pricing and aim to promote more sustainable and unique fashion options. Customers are asked to send in a few photos or a Pinterest board, and Eclaras does the rest.
“Eclaras offers an alternative, one that’s personal, local and impactful. When you shop here, you’re not just buying clothes — you’re supporting someone’s side hustle, reducing waste and helping fund community initiatives that give back. My hope is that we can continue growing a space that feels good to be a part of for our sellers, our shoppers and everyone in between,” Marolf said.
While Eclaras is a for-profit store, Marolf believes it can also be a “for-good” option. She makes active efforts to stay in close contact with local-area homeless nonprofits and keeps a permanent donation bin for the unhoused community, where customers can donate food, clothing and other items.
Marolf is also excited to launch the first-ever Eclaras Impact Market, which will take place on N. Madison St. and W. Makers Way in the trades district of Bloomington on July 26. The outdoor market will feature vendors, small businesses, resellers, artists, food trucks, live music and more, with proceeds benefiting Beacon Inc., a local nonprofit supporting the unhoused community in Bloomington.
“We’re excited to take everything Eclaras stands for and make it even bigger. It’s an extension of what we do already — giving people a platform, encouraging thoughtful shopping and finding ways to make a difference together,” Marolf said.
To learn more about Eclaras, visit eclaras.com.
