It's time for Laser Focus
how to stand out in a world of vintage ( and thrift ) curators
In a time when the world is finally slowing down their fast fashion habits ( yay ) and turning more and more to secondhand & re-sale ( double yay ) - how does one join the growing number of re-seller shops while also building a successful business?
There is a growing demand ( I believe ) for well-curated, thoughtfully laid out online and brick & mortar spaces to shop, explore and dress ourselves in pretty ( old ) things. However, as in any industry, there will be those who succeed - and those who may not. The key difference? Having a crystal clear voice. And what I mean by that is having laser focus on what you do ( and don’t do ) and the fortitude to do it well.
Curate with Intention -
What are you choosing to sell and why - Do you want to carry all natural fabrics, or stick to a neutral color palatte. Give yourself a rule-of-thumb when sourcing items so that you can follow your own guidebook when collecting inventory. You might still be figuring this out, or looking to pivot - so pay close attention to what customers are buying from you, and what gets you ( and them ) most excited.
Make your brand/shop recognizable -
What is the reason people pick your shop - are they coming to you for colorful prints? Are they looking for stellar western-ware? Do you always have the best band tees? If you stepped back from your shop and looked at the bigger picture - what says “YOUR BRAND”? Start there and lean-in.
Become THE authority on said thing -
Who cares if someone else does something similar - only you can do it, in a way that is uniquely yours. Don’t copy for the sake of copying; create from an authentic place, and curate items that speak to your heart. * If you aren’t doing this - I’m going to stop you right there and encourage you to find another hobby / project / business that is more aligned to your values and passion.
Make it easy for your customers to find you - the ones who really really connect with you and what you are doing. In order to stand-out from the sea of similar looking thrift shops, you must first find your voice.
You can be much louder in a crowd when you know exactly what you are saying.
Michelle Moore is a Seattle-based creative, vintage curator, photographer, writer and educator. You can catch her at an up-coming pop-up, swing by on a night she’s hosting at the restaurant in Ballard, order one of her hand-knit Beanies, or hire her to host & plan your next event.
connecting you with good clothes + good people.