An insiders view of Minneapolis hot vintage clothing scene

Vintage, a new secondhand clothing store in Minneapolis, offers an eclectic mix of apparel from the 1940s to the early 2000s, alongside nostalgic items like action figures and alt-rock albums. The resale fashion market is booming, particularly among younger shoppers, and now represents about 10% of the global apparel market. Owner Justin Schaefer attributes Minneapolis' vintage scene to its rich history in the rag trade and its influential music culture, which includes icons like Prince. He sources items from various channels, including international dealers from Japan, and is dedicated to the thrill of in-person shopping experiences. Schaefer, who has a background as an artist and restaurant worker, opened Vintage in late 2023.

The store has gained popularity, especially after a visit from singer Billie Eilish, and attracts a diverse clientele, including punks and families. Schaefer emphasizes the unique joy of serendipitous discoveries that come with shopping in person. His passion for vintage clothing reflects a broader trend among consumers increasingly favoring sustainable fashion choices.