This post is the second this week from the wonderful Lila at The Constant Tourist’s interviews with vintage shops! If you missed Part I of Lila’s Vintage Interviews with Telltale Hearts, be sure to check it out!
On Monday I sat down with the women behind Telltale Hearts, and today I’d like to introduce you to the woman behind STRIM Vintage, Wendy. While Wendy has curated a charming selection of vintage dresses, wait until you get your eyes on her jewelry! Here’s Part II of the Vintage Interviews, with Wendy.
Vintage Brass Mini Shotgun Pendant, $50
So Wendy, I have to tell you … you were the one that opened my eyes to the beauty of second hand and vintage clothing & accessories. Have you always preferred vintage to new?
Wendy: It really means a lot that I inspired you to look at vintage in a new light. When I started my business, I really wanted to reach women who weren’t typical vintage shoppers. To answer your question, yes, I’ve probably always preferred old to new. My parents are big antique collectors who exposed me to it at a very young age. We would visit every antique shop we passed on our family road trips through out the South.
I just find that vintage and antique items have more character. The detail and quality just can’t be compared to things made today. I am not only referring to fashion, but almost everything from architecture to automobiles. My apartment building in Los Angeles was built in the 20′s. I love the detail of the Art Deco molding, the high ceilings, and there is even the original icebox. My stove is from the 1950′s and still works. But in design, I do love the contrast of vintage with new.
Vintage German Frosted Glass Studs, $46
Speaking of vintage to new, I’m dying here. Let’s talk about the STRIM Signature Jewelry Line for a second: Mini shotgun pendants, resin rosebuds, brass lockets? I love how you repurpose old finds to make them fresh. What drew you into jewelry?
Wendy: Well I’ve always loved working with my hands. Again, my mother always had my sisters and I working on some project like cross-stitching. My first job after Design School was as a hand finisher for a Couture Designer in Dallas. I think jewelry was just an easy transition for me. I love finding beautiful old pieces that aren’t really wearable and giving them a second chance.
You’re online as well as in a select few brick & mortar shops around Los Angeles. Have any plans to distribute your jewelry to boutiques beyond Los Angeles?
Wendy: I am very excited to say we just recently added two Louisiana boutiques to our retailers. Little Miss Muffin in New Orleans and Metairie and Brenchley Shoes in Mandeville are both carrying STRIM Collection jewelry.
Black Cameo Toggle Bracelet, $110
Let’s chat style. I asked this question of the gals at Telltale Hearts yesterday, and I want to hear from you as well – I get a lot of inspiration through travel, Is there a particular place that really strikes a chord and gets your creative buds bouncing?
Wendy: A lot of my inspiration comes from the antique and vintage pieces I find. But I’m also inspired by Film and photography. My favorite film is “Gone with The Wind”. Vivian Lee wears the most amazing cameo in one scene so it is not surprising that I have a few cameos in my Spring Collection (like the black toggle bracelet below). I’m also obsessed with Pinterest. It’s the best if I need quick inspiration. But if I’m stuck and need a creative jolt, a hike or yoga class always does the trick.
Before I let you run Wendy, divulge some of your favorite shopping spots around Los Angeles for us traveling gals.
Wendy: Well of course I love to shop all the local flea markets here in La. My favorites are Melrose Trading Post and The Rose Bowl in Pasadena. These are great places to find furniture and vintage accessories. Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice is full of amazing shops and restaurants. All are independently owned businesses that you won’t find anywhere else.
If you want to see more of Wendy’s jewelry collection, visit Little Miss Muffin in New Orleans and Brenchley Shoes in Mandeville. Not planning to be in New Orleans anytime soon? Well, why not? I’ll let it slide for now. You can find Wendy’s jewelry online at www.strimvintage.com and Etsy.
Thank you so much, Miss Lila, for introducing me to the fab vintage boutiques!
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weeeeee! thanks again Ashley, had fun doing these, hope your readers enjoyed them as well. and it appears i need to catch the monthly Rose Bowl Market next time i’m out in Los Angeles as all 3 of these women recommended it!