How To Shop Vintage–Secrets From The Pros!
Sasha Hodges, owner of Kokorokoko
What are your favorite spots to score great vintage finds?
"At our vintage shop, Kokorokoko, we only sell clothing from the '80s and the early '90s. We are super specific, and a lot more recent than most vintage shops in Chicago. Our inventory comes from a lot of different sources, but I would have to say my favorite place to score interesting pieces are garage sales. Outside the city people are usually really surprised that we are looking for '80s and will kind of chuckle when we get excited about their Bart Simpson T-shirt or whatever."
What are you tips for incorporating vintage pieces into modern wardrobes?
"Because a lot of contemporary designers have been influenced by the '80s and early '90s lately, it's easy to wear head-to-toe vintage and look up to date. The key is the styling — be aware of the overall silhouette and proportions of your outfit. Even something as dated as shoulder pads can work if you have slim slacks, leggings or a pencil skirt to pair with it."
Any words of advice for those new to vintage shopping?
"When you're out shopping, it's important to be patient and enjoy the ride. Look through each item on the rack. You might not find the perfect blazer or designer piece you are searching for right away but remember it's a treasure hunt and you never know what you will find!"
Tell us about your favorite vintage shopping experience.
"We have an awesome poster from Marshall Fields that is up in our shop called 'Summer in the City,' it was something that probably sat in Marshall Fields in 1989 and now is part of our decor. One of our most amazing finds was a psychedelic '80s Lanvin gown that we originally thought was a poncho but turned out to be an off the shoulder stunner that sold right away! Right now we are loving these 'disco' Doc Martins we have in our webshop. HOT!"
Photos: Courtesy of Sasha Hodges, headshot by Isa Giallorenzo
in NYC