Mint

Today we’re really lucky to have Rikkianne Van Kirk, the talented designer behind Chakra Pennywhistle, share some of her favorite vintage clothing finds on Etsy. She’s starting off with a delicate, more feminine collection and tomorrow she’ll share her boho-style picks. Take it away, Rikkianne!

Hi there, my name is Rikkianne and I have a passion for vintage clothing. I was so pleased to receive an email from the wonderful Ellie letting me know that we share the same love for vintage style, and even some of the same favorite vintage shops on Etsy. For me, Etsy has become the place to buy vintage. Not only are the sellers very professional, but they are extremely creative folks that truly appreciate the style. It is so much fun to browse Etsy vintage shops and view the different interpretations of vintage design. It can also be very inspiring when it comes to bringing an outfit together! I am so honored to share some of my finds!

I must say that there is nothing quite like buying and wearing vintage clothing. Not only is it a fabulous form of recycling, but it brings a sense of history and appreciation for times past. Personally, I love to find pieces that have been hand sewn or hemmed to fit the previous owner. There is something so special about putting on a skirt that was altered by hand and it fitting my 5’2 frame perfectly. This is so rare, but when it happens I smile as I relate to the gal who 20 or 30 years ago had the same curse of shortness as I. Basically, vintage is the celebration of something old turned new — which can be reflected in one’s wardrobe with a simple vintage piece combined with modern day accessories or a good pair of jeans.

For the first collection I focused on a feminine color palette with simply, lovely pieces that could be brought up to date very easily (versatile and timeless). Each piece has the delicate details that only a true vintage can have. From embroidered pockets, eyelets and lace, dainty buttons, and a wide leg, all of these pieces have their own unique qualities while not going overboard — allowing them to transition easily to modern-day attire. I really love the delicate details found in the apron! The cross stitching is fabulous and the fact that the thread is black really caught my eye!  I also added a men’s shirt into the mix. I chose the tan 70′s button down with my husband in mind. My husband likes to keep things simple. He is a tee and Chuck Taylor kind of guy. While I wish that he would throw on a plaid, pearl button down every now and then, he worries that it would be a bit too much. I think that the light design of this shirt is just subtle enough to pass the husband test. It is vintage, complete with a bit of a butterfly collar, but walks that line leaning toward nice as opposed to trying too hard.

SHOP!

{set 1} my wagonette + the eves like us + faithful vintage + dalena vintage

{set 2} big brother vintage + this year’s model + revival house + noble town vintage

{set 3} brown bag vintage + ramona west + this could be you + boston vintage

{set 4} dear golden + nice + adelaide homesewn + a touch of vintage

Stay tuned for part two tomorrow!