Designer Spotlight: Kazoo Vintage

The sun is out, the allergies are acting up, & fashionistas are swapping their winter neutrals for new spring styles. While paying a trip to H&M or TopShop for the latest looks is fun, vintage is the new, new! Whether you browse an etsy shop, step into a vintage consignment store, or a Good Will, there’s a lot of excitement that coincides with shopping vintage. The brands, high-end or well-known, are available for a steal of a price! There is also a sense of adventure when looking for that vintage Michael Kors blouse; when you find something that fits perfectly and looks amazing, it’s a unique piece that nobody else will have! To start or continue on in your vintage ventures, check out a boutique with the best style, Kazoo Vintage by Jessica Oliver!

The Interview

Carbon Magazine: Where and when did your company get started?

Jessica Oliver: I’ve been obsessed with all things retro for most of my life. I started my Etsy shop in October 2011 once I noticed my collections were getting kind of crazy! Everything I do is based out of my bedroom, which is why I don’t carry hundreds of items in my store. I wouldn’t have enough space!

CM: What is the inspiration behind your store?

JO: I wanted to create a store with vintage items that could be as stylish today as they were back in the day. I love vintage styles, but I don’t want to look like I’ve stepped out of a straight-out-of-1984 music video. I always look for potential in pieces, sometimes all an item needs is a little shoulder pad removal therapy!

CM: What makes Kazoo Vintage stand out amongst other vintage boutiques?

JO: I’m a young college student who is also on a college budget. I don’t think vintage clothing should be a luxury, it should be just as affordable as something you could buy new. I find items that are vintage, yet trendy.

CM: What is your favorite spring trend?
JO: Pastels, pastels, pastels! I’ve been shamelessly favoring mint green and peach dresses online for months.

CM: How do you keep up-to-date with the latest trends?
JO: I keep up with a lot of bloggers who not only have amazing style, but can incorporate vintage/thrifted pieces into their wardrobe. I have a chictopia account I update on occasion, but I stalk other users images frequently. On lazy days I’ll  browse style magazines and sip on a cup of coffee.

CM: How would you describe your personal style?
JO: It depends on what day it is! I love princess-y materials like lace and chiffon, but always with a dash of edginess, like biker boots. As of late, I’ve been sporting a boho/hippie chic look.

CM: What advice do you have for aspiring designers?
JO: “if you have a hobby you love, pursue it to its fullest degree!”

Product Review

Jessica sent me a beautiful black vintage Faviana mini dress complete with rhinestones and shoulder pads! The main thing i look for in quality vintage is hems and seams in tact as well as not being able to detect that common old-grandma vintage smell. Jess clearly takes great care of her collection, while allowing the public to snag it at low prices! I wore my dress to Fashion Week Cleveland, receiving many compliments on my ensemble! Check out Kazoo Vintage and become a vintage vixen just in time for spring!