Tell us about the shop’s focus and what customers can expect to find:
My shop is full of TRUE vintage. It is a small shop but has a little bit of everything. There is antique cotton, slips and peignoir sets, 1960s party dresses, 70s caftans, and Hawaiian dresses, but also beat-up denim and coveralls. I think accessories can make an outfit, so there are handbags, shoes, and always a nice selection of silk scarves. The vintage housewares, barware, lamps, kitty decor, and kitchen items are throughout the shop. I also carry vintage-inspired artisan goods, like stickers and patches, cards, and candles.
Can you suggest some ways to pair current styles with vintage pieces?
Even if someone doesn't love to have their whole look vintage, a beaded clutch or a great vintage coat can really make a statement. Modern jeans with a funky pattern blouse and a 1970s leather belt. We sell a lot of occasion dresses, for weddings and parties. Mixed with modern jewelry or the perfect shoes, [it] looks super stylish and no one is going to show up in your same dress! If you have a closet full of good stylish and quality tailored pieces, you can put almost anything together and it looks good, throw on some great vintage accessories and you have a really chic outfit.
How do you recommend transitioning your wardrobe from one season to another?
Layers are so fun! A beautiful woven scarf, or sweaters over a collared shirt, boots with short dresses, and adding tights. Good staple pieces that work all year.
Please share anything else that you would like readers to know about you and/or Arsenic & Old Lace Vintage:
My little shop is a true labor of love -- the pieces have been thoughtfully chosen and lovingly restored a lot of the time. I love when people come in who appreciate quality unique fashion and the time it takes to curate such a shop. I am a true small business who is always happy that you came in to see me and share in my love of beautiful old things.
My little shop is a true labor of love -- the pieces have been thoughtfully chosen and lovingly restored a lot of the time. I love when people come in who appreciate quality unique fashion and the time it takes to curate such a shop.