Story by Buffalo Exchange Las Vegas, Photography by Serg (@othervisuals)
Buffalo Exchange Las Vegas talks with long-time customer and vintage aficionado Jasmin Rodriguez of VintageVandalizm.com.
Since starting her blog in 2008, this 28-year-old New York native has grown a veritable empire of followers, drawing fans with her timeless beauty and raw grit. Noticing that there weren’t enough Puerto Rican actresses and pin-up stars from the 1950s in the public eye, Rodriguez took it upon herself to rediscover these forgotten women and uphold their legacy. Today, she has been featured in Glamour France, Time Out New York, Nylon and Playboy, collaborated with over 50 brands, assisted in fashion shows for Betsey Johnson and Agent Provocateur and worked as the Executive Buyer for PinupGirlClothing.com in Las Vegas. We can’t wait to see what she’ll do next! Follow her on Instagram @vintagevandal to stay posted.
When did you start shopping at Buffalo Exchange?
Oh man, I can’t even remember! It’s been so long! I think it was when you guys opened the Williamsburg location. I was instantly in love and have been shopping with you all over the US since then.
What got you into pin-up and vintage clothing, and fashion in general?
I had no knowledge of vintage when I started thrift-shopping and barely any knowledge of pin-up. I didn’t even know there was this incredible subculture of people who still dress 1950s until years later. I can’t really explain it, but I naturally gravitated towards anything of that era – the clothes, the furniture, the architecture and everything else! I just bought what I liked and then, years later, I realized I had a collection of rare vintage pieces. Sometimes I feel like I experienced the 1950s in my past life. It was such an elegant and artistic era – it never gets old for me.
What inspires you?
I’m always inspired by old magazines and films. I pay close attention to every little detail of the scenery, decor and fashion. Art plays a HUGE part in my style. I’m an artist and this is just another medium for me.
How do you keep your style interesting and fresh?
I don’t really pay attention to trends or what everyone else is doing. I just do my own thing and it works because it’s real and it’s me.
What’s been your favorite find from Buffalo Exchange?
Oh man, how could I choose? Probably a Falguni & Shane dress that is just otherworldly. Oh, and I can’t forget the amazing 1940s paisley peasant top and long skirt set I wear any chance I get. It is, hands down, one of my most beautiful and favorite vintage pieces. It makes my heart melt every time I look at it and, every time I wear it, people ask me where it’s from.
Tell us a little about your job.
I was a buyer for Pinup Girl Clothing for two years but am now doing freelance brand management for companies who want to find their voice. I am also working on my own projects and as a contributing writer for a few online magazines.
Any trends you are currently obsessed with?
I’m not really into trends, but can we get a “hallelujah” that the palm leaf print is everywhere and on everything? It’s my favorite print of all time. Give me palm leaf-print anything.
It seems like you have an endless supply of beautiful clothes. How big is your closet?
About three giant walk-in closets worth. I had to get a two-bedroom apartment just to fit all of my stuff comfortably. I have a HUGE collection of clothes, all meticulously organized by color and style. My friends think I am nuts.
You have built an awesome career for yourself and a powerful brand. Any advice for our readers and fashionistas on how to brand themselves?
My only advice is to stay true to who you are. You don’t have to do what everyone else is doing or worry about what people say. If you brand yourself honestly, your tribe will find you. Always remain positive, keep learning, evolving and sharing your gifts with the world. Never give up.
XOXO,
Jasmin Rodriguez
The post Our Customer: Jasmin Rodriguez, the Vintage Vandal appeared first on Buffalo Exchange New & Recycled Fashion®.