I'm Scared, Thank You!
Just an eldest child asking for help on the internet
Last week, I published a financial breakdown about my week at the (now somewhat controversial?!) Brimfield Antiques Show. Budgeting has been on the forefront of my mind as of late - last week, just days after spending $[insert amount as revealed in my newsletter here], I had my official last shift at my years long hospitality job. I’ve wanted to leave the industry for years, but it never felt like the “right” time financially. Turns out, there might not ever be a right time.
So, it’s official: as of this week, I’m now a full time vintage dealer, writer, and stylist!
I got vulnerable on Instagram and asked for support in this career shift, and holy shit you guys showed UP for me. Your encouragement won me my highest spot yet on the Substack Rising charts in Fashion & Beauty, and I’m feeling more confident than ever that I’m exactly where I need to be.
I’m sending out this letter to update you on my life, to share some of the really exciting things I have coming for you in the 1-800-VINTAGE universe, and to ask for even more help (scary). If I have any fellow eldest daughter/immigrant mom/Virgos reading along, you get it. Asking for help is not my forte. Asking for help multiple times, in front of an (online) audience? Goodbye.
Let’s get this over with.
If you’re in the vicinity of NYC this coming weekend, consider this your formal invitation to the fall Pickwick Vintage Show on September 20th. The LA-born event is back at Grand Central Terminal for their third NYC show, and each one has proven even better than the last. I wrote about the iconic venue when I joined Pickwick for the first time in July.
September 20th also just so happens to be my birthday! I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than to commune with fellow vintage lovers in a beautiful space. As always, my Substack subscribers receive special prices on any vintage purchases. I have a truly incredible fall collection to share with you - think 60’s suede, 40’s satin, a stash of Whiting & Davis chainmail bags, and the knitwear of your dreams. Don’t miss it!
Get your tickets to the Pickwick Vintage Show here.
If you’re one of many new subscribers to recently join me here - welcome! I’m SO excited you’re here. This letter is a bit of a departure from my usual content, so don’t be scared away. My writing here at 1-800-VINTAGE is centered on fashion history, the 100 Fashion Films Project, styling, vintage industry discourse, and garment care. My passions include the ILGWU, dismantling all bigoted -isms and -phobias, OxiClean, and never ever pretending that fashion isn’t political.
If you’re here to learn how to properly identify vintage, come up with a good response to someone saying “everyone was just smaller back then,” or figure out how to wear a skirt over pants - you’re in the right place. If you’re here for endless shopping links, suggestions for “flattering” looks, and no mentions of a Free Palestine - prepare to be disappointed.
This work is only possible with the support of my subscribers, especially those of you who are generous enough to pay! If you’re on the fence about upgrading your subscription, please feel free to reach out. I’m happy to offer a temporary comp so you can explore the archives and get a feel for the content that unpaid subscribers are missing out on :)
Exclusively for my inner circle, I have a very exciting preview! I just recently interviewed a true fashion ICON, and my exclusive interview will be coming to Substack soon. There is a 100% chance you’re familiar with their work…
