This week, I am featuring an interview with Delia Solone – owner of Happy Forest Vintage, a colorful vintage clothing shop where you can buy selected pre-loved pieces from the 1940s to the 1980s. I love that the shop is filled with so many colorful vintage pieces that bring to mind spring time and happy summer days.
COLORFUL VINTAGE TOPS:
floral pop art blouse {buy} | colorful vintage blouse {buy} | 80s floral blouse {buy} | red floral blouse {buy}
When did you launch your online store and why did you choose to a vintage clothing shop?
Happy Forest Vintage launched in April of 2013, when I realized my clothing inventory was too much for Amelia Bedelia Vintage. I wanted to have a separate space to showcase colorful and unique pieces. I think it works better having home décor and fashion in different stores. I’ve been a thrifter since I was creating my own style in junior high and high school, and STILL regret giving away my favorite pair of bright orange, high waisted, plaid, corduroy bellbottoms, yikes!
Where do you find vintage?
My favorite place to find vintage treasures is generally estate sales, where you can go through entire houses chock FULL of amazing stuff. I spend a LOT of time in my favorite thrift stores too and generally go at least once a week to get my fix! I also love supporting other vintage shops on Etsy when I can.
SHOP VINTAGE SKIRTS:
floral midi skirt {buy} | retro polka dot skirt {buy} | pink rosebuds skirt {buy} | spearmint floral skirt {buy}
Do you wear vintage?
For sure! I would say half to 75% of my wardrobe is vintage, and I love mixing up newer pieces with a bold and colorful vintage print. It makes your wardrobe so much more fun!
What is your personal style in clothing?
I’m super into menswear and love pairing an oversized men’s shirt with practically everything. I am a sucker for anything pastel or floral. And for winter right now I live in cozy oversized sweaters in bright colors. Also unicorns.
Do you have your own vintage collection?
Of course! It rotates too, so sometimes a piece from my personal collection will find it’s way into the shop as I find new treasures on my hunts. There’s only so much a closet can hold and I want to pass on some of these goodies to other vintage lovers.
SHOP DRESSES:
polka dot dress {buy} | 70s floral shirt dress {buy} | pastel blue pleated dress {buy} | bohemian maxi dress {buy}
If we peek inside your bag, what can we see?
Wallet, 3 chapsticks, 3 rings, hairties, almonds, advil, Kiehl’s Eye Alert, and a temporary tattoo of a pair of eyeballs, lol.
What are your favorite clothing shops?
I don’t shop much for “new” clothes, but I do love American Apparel for colorful, staple pieces and Gap denim for high waisted jeans, PrintLiberation.com & BuyMeBrunch.com for snarky tees!
If you were to choose favorites from your shop, what would these be?
DELIA’s FAVES:
vintage butterly clutch {buy} | chunky knit sweater {buy} | floral tapestry luggage {buy}
Why did you choose Etsy to sell online?
I’ve been in LOVE with Etsy since I first discovered it as a shopper in 2008. I really appreciate the sense of community you build with other sellers and teams, and it has allowed so many people to do what they love. I’m definitely an Etsy addict.
What tips can you give for people who would like to buy vintage clothing?
-First of all, congratulations on having great taste! Unique vintage pieces can certainly add a bit of fun to anyone’s wardrobe, don’t be afraid to mix and match with what you already have.
-Vintage vs.modern sizing can be VERY different. Take your measurements accurately and you’ll have a better chance of finding a piece online that fits you just right.
-If you’ve never bought any vintage clothing before, and aren’t sure where to start, start simple with a fun, patterned blouse or tee, tucked into jeans, shorts or a pencil skirt. One of the great things about vintage clothing is that whatever you choose, it won’t be something you’ll see on every other person. Find something that speaks to your personal style and just have fun!
-Keep in mind that vintage pieces not only have had a life of their own before meeting you, but might also be made from fabrics that require a bit more attention. Don’t expect to be able to treat your vintage pieces like a t-shirt from Target, give them some special care and they will last for years to come!
COLORFUL VINTAGE SHORTS:
80s high waisted shorts {buy} | Ralph Lauren tropical print shorts {buy} | 80s red drawstring shorts {buy} | 80s floral culottes {buy}
SHOP VINTAGE ACCESSORIES:
mod vintage scarf {buy} | 60s squares choker {buy} | vintage floral pouch {buy} | red leather crossbody bag {buy}
You can find The Happy Forest Vintage online at these places: Website / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter.com
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