“One of the things that attracts me to vintage and antique things is they have stories, and even if I don’t know the stories, I make them up.” ~ Mary Kay Andrews
Jess Mathews is the owner of The Cosmic Circle Vintage. She is a formidable presence in the realm of online sales of deadstock and vintage clothing. She recently answered some questions for us as a person of prominence right here in the Triad!
When and where did your love of vintage begin?
When I was 17, my mom got me a sewing machine, and I started shopping with my own money. On a teen budget, I found that thrift stores were the best option for finding pieces that I could make work or alter to fit me. This is also when I started developing my own sense of personal style.
Talk about the start of your business, and what were the high and low points during this cycle of owning your business?
I collected a lot of great vintage pieces over the years. In 2012, a friend suggested that I open an online shop where I could make some money while getting rid of some pieces that were special to me. Never did I expect it to grow what it has grown into today; I’ve sold to multiple T.V. show sets and movies, and even a few celebs! I’m very grateful.
Speak to what Deadstock clothing is and how it engages your audience/customers.
Vintage clothing that never sold and has never been worn, usually with the original tags is considered to be “deadstock.” These pieces are usually in great condition and 20+ years old. When out shopping it’s like “oooh!” finding a diamond in the rough.
Why should we be more concerned with sustainability in all forms, and how does your business contribute?
It is a well known fact the clothing industry is one of the largest polluters of this planet, emitting thousands of harmful chemicals used in the textile mills around the world, which are dangerous to both the environment and the (usually underpaid) garment workers. Not to mention the waste. Sustainable fashion is a way in which everyone can contribute, whether that is trading, donating, shopping secondhand or recycling items into new ideas, it’s all helping eliminate unnecessary waste – even in small ways. One person’s trash is another person’s treasure!
What excites you about the future of this business model?
The cycle of fashion is on a continuous loop with trends coming and going pretty quickly. I love seeing how the upcoming generations are incorporating true vintage pieces into their wardrobes while keeping it fresh and exciting – they keep me inspired, and I love meeting so many new faces.
If you were pitching your business to a group that had not heard of The Cosmic Circle, what would be the most important take-away for you to convey?
There’s a certain magic in vintage pieces, sometimes you just have to get creative and find ways to bring them back to life. I hope The Cosmic Circle can inspire others to reclaim their own unloved pieces. Help eliminate waste. Rewear and repair..think of all the possibilities!
Who are you nominating for your Person of Prominence, and why?
I would like to nominate my friend, Quala Tyree. She is a certified personal trainer along with being a dance fitness instructor. I’ve taken many of her classes, and they are always so much fun and very inspiring for women of all ages. I think more people should know about what she is offering and the energy she is putting out there!
The Cosmic Circle Vintage
Instagram: @thecosmiccircle
Web: Thecosmiccircle.etsy.com
