For the Love of Vintage

Vintage clothing is something I’ve always wanted to wear, but I never knew where to shop for it or how to wear it. That was until Couture in the Suburbs editor, Lindsay Viker, introduced me to a boutique called Vintage by Misty.

“If you shop at free people, you should be shopping here.” – Misty

Vintage by Misty is a vintage boutique located in Old Town Scottsdale that houses some of the most exquisite vintage clothing and jewelry I’ve ever seen. There’s a reason Misty Guerriero’s store has been voted “Best Vintage Boutique” by Phoenix New Times, The Arizona Republic, and Arizona Foothills.

Misty’s pieces are unique, as she selects them from all over the world. Pieces originating from Israel and Europe are not uncommon at the boutique, and they’re finds that many would never have the opportunity to see or purchase if she didn’t travel to find them herself.

The thing that sets Misty apart from other vintage shops is simply that she knows her vintage. Every single piece I picked out she knew the background of. It was refreshing to be around someone who is not only passionate about her merchandise, but is equally as knowledgeable about it.

“That’s why I try to recommend vintage to people, the quality is there. It’s been around for 30 years and if you keep taking care of them, it will be around for more.” – Misty

At Misty’s boutique, one thing I soon realized about her vintage selections was that, often times, the word “vintage” is followed by “designer.” And not just any designer, but the most classic and timeless designers (who also happen to be favorites of mine). I’m talking Hermès, Vivienne Westwood, Chanel, and Dior. Even better: each piece is one-of-a kind, flawless, and stunning.

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Handmade and hand-dyed silk blouse paired with vintage Hermès pants and vintage costume jewelry earrings. Photo courtesy of Krysta Holmes.

Handmade and hand-dyed silk blouse paired with vintage Hermès pants. Photo courtesy of Krysta Holmes.

However, not all pieces were in the designer category (or price range). The boutique has plenty of absolutely gorgeous pieces, all in an affordable price range. Misty not only offers a selection of styles, but also numerous price points, promising an extensive amount of choices for every customer.

If you’re like myself – new to vintage and unsure of how to wear it – Misty’s boutique is the perfect place to start. Misty is wonderful at pulling pieces she thinks suit your style, and I have to say, she’s exceptionally good at picking up on your tastes immediately.

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Vintage 70s silk dress paired with 14K gold and enamel bracelets. Also wearing vintage Chanel earrings and semi-precious stone 1970s cocktail ring from Israel. Henna courtesy of The Henna Shoppe. Photo courtesy of Krysta Holmes.

Misty offers suggestions on how to make the pieces better suit your tastes – as well as modern fashion trends – such as hemming a dress, taking in a waistline, or cropping blouses so they become crop tops. The combination of these tips quickly convinced me that I’ve been shopping in all the wrong stores, and that vintage is my latest obsession.

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Vintage Vivienne Westwood dress, vintage hat, and 1970s William DiLillo bracelets. Photo courtesy of Krysta Holmes.

I’ve never had the “artistic” gene, so changing the basic makeup of a tee shirt or dress into something that I’d love to wear is something that never crossed my mind – until Misty suggested it. I always worried that if I wore vintage as it was purchased, it was just a tad bit too hipster for me. But, with a few of Misty’s suggested alterations, I quickly realized I could quickly alter a piece into vintage perfection: a piece true to its vintage nature but one that fits my style and me perfectly.

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Norma Kamali romper, vintage YSL ring and jewelry from the 70s. Photo courtesy of Krysta Holmes.

If vintage isn’t something you’re ready to try as an everyday look, maybe it’s something that’s perfect for an upcoming festival? For me, this was the perfect place to find my Coachella outfits. The boutique is home to every festival “must-have” – bohemian statement pieces, hippie-chic tops and skirts, fringe accents, and felt hats – and it’s all perfect for festival season.