Alicia is the woman behind the vintage pieces you’ll find on the racks at Meridian Men as well as the thoughtfully sourced sunglasses (her current passion project) in the case at Meridian Boutique. She’s spent more than a decade digging through bales and bales of vintage clothes at rag houses in Los Angeles, seeking out those perfect finds that some of us spend a lifetime looking for. We sat down with her to ask a few questions about what vintage means to her.
What got you into vintage sourcing in the first place?
I've always loved vintage and hunting for finds at thrift stores since I was very young! I have aunts on both sides of my family who instilled a love of thrift at an early age. I began learning more about vintage in college when I worked as a buyer at Buffalo Exchange. I learned a lot about how to identify and date vintage and began to develop a deep appreciation for the quality of how things were made in the past and learning about the changes in style through the eras of clothing.
What are some vintage styles that never go out style? Any particular vintage pieces you think every closet needs?
Everyone needs a great blazer! You can dress them up or down and tailoring styles have changed through the eras so it's nice to collect different shapes of blazers to change the look of different outfits.
What is your favorite vintage piece in your own closet?
I've never worn it as it's a bit delicate but it's a very dramatic silk patchwork quilt duster coat with belled sleeves. One day, she will have her moment out on the town!
How do you know when you've found something really special? Any tips for a vintage or thrift hobbyist?
Developing an eye for quality fabric is a great place to start. That way you can scan the racks looking for textiles that catch your eye. Once you pull it out to take a closer look, pay attention to the construction and hardware. All of these things are great indicators of a high-quality vintage garment. All that said, I believe a "special piece" is truly in the eye of the beholder.
What's a piece you'd love to get your hands on but haven't found yet? Your white whale, if you will.
I don't have one piece I'm looking for. Sometimes, the more focus I put on looking for something specific, the more it evades me! So I always just keep an eye out for things that catch my eye and make my heart skip a beat.
