It's rare when I come across a vintage store that feels modern. Most vintage stores I have seen have a very retro feel to them... which isn't a bad thing, it is just a very normal thing. But it is always refreshing to find a vintage store with a really unique perspective. This is one of the reasons I really like ALACLOTH. From the clean photos and presentation of her shop to the everyday wear-ability of each item, ALACLOTH makes it easy to imagine vintage items in a modern wardrobe.
(Photo above: leather ankle boots with stacked heel)
Owner and founder of ALACLOTH, Ania, was gracious enough to take the time and answer some of my questions for her and here is what she said:
How did you start selling on Etsy?
I had been hunting and gathering vintage clothing for sometime in hopes to open either a brick and mortar store or an online shop. I stumbled upon Etsy and started selling a few items just try my luck while still working out my business plan. It went so well almost immediately and I continued on...
I strongly believe that people should be able to do what they love. I support individuals, organizations and companies that have ethical practices. I love the idea of recycling goods and sharing them with others.
What previous decade are you most inspired by?
This is tough. I love mod 60s dresses. I love the boho look of the 70s and yet some punk style of the late 70s. Currently, I am loving me some grunge, over-sized tops and simple separates of the early 90s. My personal style is an eclectic mix of rocker meets boho meets vintage.
Do you have any vintage muses? People? Movies? Musicians?
I love the musician Patti Smith's look. Anna Karina is bombshell gorgeous in Jean-Luc Godard films. I adore the film Vivre Sa Vie. I am a big fan of French New Wave films. And, I know she is not vintage, but I love Karen O.; lead singer of the Yeah Yeahs Yeahs. She is bold, fierce and has her own unique sense of style.
What has been your most exciting vintage find up until now?
One!!? I found a 1972 Rolling Stones North American Tour T-shirt (in a shop having a bag sale). And...finally, I found my dream motorcycle jacket from the late 70s. It is perfectly distressed and long enough in the sleeves. (I have abnormally long arms). My most recent find was a long grey leather trench coat with a faux fur collar. I am completely OBSESSED with jackets and coats.
Any tips in incorporating vintage clothing into a modern wardrobe?
I am a huge fan of adding fur collars to leather jackets, tailoring over-sized denim shirts and distressing denim jeans and shorts. I tend to rock simple separates most of the time and then add a vintage jacket or hat that really makes a statement. It is worth it to have things tailored to fit the way you would like. Also, learn what styles are flattering on your body type. Finally, learn what color palettes enhance your features. When I rock bold vintage pieces, I try to make sure they compliment my features.
Do you have any advice for other Etsy shop owners?
Believe. Gratitude. I always try to give excellent customer service and thank all my buyers. Thank you, Desert Flea for supporting my passion.
THANKS ANIA!!!
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Here are some of my favorite items currently at ALACLOTH...
(click on the photo/link to view the listing)
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| Black Wide Leg Cut Out Pants! |
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| Paisley Red Suspenders |
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| Retro 70s Tab Collar Polyester Clown Shirt |
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| Preppy Loafers |
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| Hippie Boho Maxi Summer Dress |
You can find all these items and DOZENS more at ALACLOTH
