Vintage Expert | Lotta with Deluxe Redux
Nov 10, 2014 | by Becky Oeltjenbruns
Lotta, our latest vintage expert
We always love meeting fellow vintage fashionistas who not only walk the walk, but can talk the talk (Because they love to research designers and eras as much as we do). Our latest vintage expert, Lotta with Deluxe Redux, is just that kind of gal.
She has a passion for the bold styling of the 70s and 80s, but can take that one step further and translate the power of those looks into modern day living. Recently, our Creative Director had the opportunity to catch up with Lotta and discuss her latest posts and favorite shopping spots! Enjoy and let us know what you think in the comments…
Lotta with Deluxe Redux
Lotta Yanong
Chicago, USA
Deluxe Redux
I started my Deluxe Redux blog as a homage to the designers whose vintage pieces remain staples in my wardrobe. Deluxe Redux showcases vintage fashion finds from my treasure hunts across thrift stores, estate sales, consignment shops and online digs. My favorite part of treasure hunting is the designer research. I love learning about the collections, brands and the history of the designer. I also blog about vintage inspiration in pop culture. It is my hope to inspire, inform and engage fellow vintage collectors and admirers.
Follow Lotta’s adventures on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. When she’s not on the hunt for amazing vintage finds or researching designers, you’ll find her empowering companies through her writing on Lotta de Luxe.
What are your favorite vintage eras/styles – what speaks to you?
I grew up in the 80s during a time when originality was the norm. I would run to thrift stores and vintage shops on a quest for that piece no one else would have. I would also love redefining pieces with new buttons, ribbon, sleeve removal, hem changes – whatever it takes to make it unique.
Debbie Harry
As a result, I am quite obsessed with the fashion era of the late 70s to 80s. Think more “Studio 54,” rocker chic a la Blondie and classy Halston and less cheesy bell-bottoms. I feel that the looks of this time were timeless, sophisticated and just the right amount of sexy, a time of risk and confidence. I gain inspiration to no end from my personal collection of vintage Vogue magazines from these decades! I love working in a 70s or 80s vintage piece into an outfit that gives it a touch of rocker glam, especially when updated with a trendy modern style.
You have some great posts about the impact of film and music on fashion. What artists and/or movies stick out for you as highly influential and why?
A few of my fashion icons in music: Blondie, Cyndi Lauper, Jodi Watley, Gwen Stefani, Madonna (early years) and Rihanna. What I love about these women is the way they put their looks together. The outfits are unpredictable, bold, fully accessorized and chic. Many of these women have stated that they were also inspired by vintage fashion.
Debbie Harry, looking edgy and perfect
Some of my favorite fashion-inspired movies include: 80s classics like all of the John Hughes films (Pretty in Pink, Some Kind of Wonderful, etc.), Prince (Purple Rain), Flashdance, The Devil Wears Prada, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, American Hustle, Sex and the City, Mahogany, Gia, Casino, Charlie’s Angels (70s TV show). Of course, there are the fashion-centric films like Coco Before Chanel and Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel. Most of these movies are set in the 70s or 80s with fashion ranging from thrift store to couture. There is so much individuality in that era that I find inspiring.
I really enjoyed the Whiting and Davis post – it’s fun to walk through a firm’s design/style evolution. What are your favorite transformations in the vintage fashion industry and why?
There are so many examples of transformations in the vintage fashion industry. One great example comes from Whiting & Davis. They revolutionized the design, production and use of metal mesh from crafting the original metal mesh bags by hand to developing machines to automate the mesh-making process. Through the years, W&D branched out to include stenciled color, jewelry, clothing pieces, accessories, movie set pieces, architectural and interior specialty designs and graduated to ready-to-wear fashion via Anthony Ferrera.
Whiting and Davis in all its glory
The use of metal mesh also came from a practical need when a request came in from Flat Creek Mink fur farm. In the 1920s, W&D produced safety gloves to protect their employees hands from being bitten. W&D’s innovation quickly grew in regard within the food and animal safety industries which I believe is very unique to a fashion designer.
What’s been your favorite blog post to write?
One of my favorite fashion piece posts to write was the Whiting & Davis: Hot & Gold blog. The necklace is one of my faves, and the history of Whiting & Davis is simply fascinating. My American Hustle – Vintage Overload piece was also fun to write. I loved learning about the film’s costume designer and his process. It’s hard to pick just one…There are more favorites to come!
Beautiful costume illustrations from American Hustle
Tell us about an amazing find on one of your recent outings and what are your favorite haunts in the Chicago area for a great deal.
I recently found a black faux fur jacket made by (Ooh La La) Sasson in perfect condition from a thrift store. The kicker is that I found another faux fur jacket also by Sasson in a beautiful dark purple about a few days later! Both were just around $5-10 each. I’ll be blogging about them soon. #DoubleScore
My favorite haunts in the Chicagoland area include the Unique Thrift Stores, Salvation Army, Le Thrift Consignment Boutique, Seek Vintage, and Very Best Vintage, to name a few. I also check out as many pop-up vintage fairs, festivals and estate sales as I can. Online options (eBay, Etsy, etc.) are also a great way to find curated pieces in excellent condition if you know what you’re looking for.
For our readers: How do you incorporate a 70s and 80s vibe into your everyday wardrobe? Share your favorite go-to accessories and looks with us!