I spend as much free time as I can out shopping for my shop. I think most of my fellow dealers would agree that it takes up a decent portion of our time. As it is a requirement to keep my shop operating, it begs the question, do I still enjoy shopping in general? When it comes to antiques and vintage, it is a resounding "YES".
While I can't say that the idea of ALL shopping is exciting, (I absolutely loathe food shopping!) I do still enjoy shopping clothes-mostly vintage. When you start shopping in thrift stores and second hand boutiques, you begin to actually develop a style. I've amassed some pretty incredible, one-of-a-kind finds over the years, but I still think the best part of "thrifting" is how your "finds" make you feel. Remember the Sex And The City episode in which Carrie dated a politician (the very handsome John Slattery!)? I think her exact words were, "I found some vintage Halston pieces and did a spin on Jackie O." Only the vintage experience can transport you in such a manner!
My other favorite part of building a collection of pieces is that you get to see how trends come and go in cycles. If you horde fashion magazines like I do, pull Marie Claire or Vogue from Spring 2003. Many designers dressed their models in floral print skirts and dresses. Even more predominant were the drapey neutral colors., with pops of bright. Sound familiar? And that was only 11 years ago. Three or four years ago I found a pair of vintage Ralph Lauren red velvet moccasins in a thrift store down the shore. I have a red shoe habit, so I scooped them right up! I was floored when I saw upscale retailers putting forth velvet "driving loafers" for Fall 2013. Needless to say, they got a lot of wear.
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Whether it is a Valentino ball gown you bought in-store, or a Carolee pearl choker that you scooped up on Etsy, tell us what your best vintage find was and how it shaped your style! I've included some of my favorites that are currently out there, along with the link to a new Pinterest board we were recently invited to join. If "Dream Closet" doesn't get your blood flowing, I am not sure what will! http://www.pinterest.com/qfclothing2014/dream-closet/
