We learned a long time ago that when it comes to fashion cues, the Olsen sisters are ones to watch and learn from. And while the elder sisters – Ashley and Mary-Kate – have always been pros in the realm of up-and-coming trends (a key quality when you run not one but two highly successful fashion lines: The Row and Elizabeth and James), their latest venture continues to make them something of experts when it comes to curating a vintage collection, too.
For the first time outside of the United States, the fashion-forward sisters are working on curating a selection of vintage pieces to sell alongside their Elizabeth and James collection at London’s high-end department store, Selfridges.
“This concept of curation and Elizabeth and James Vintage has become an important element of our brand story,” Ashley said in an interview with British Vogue. “We are excited to be able to share it with our customers in London for the first time. Our curated vintage has been successful for Elizabeth and James because of how well it complements the main line and vice versa. The juxtaposition is what makes the rack interesting and unique.”
Beyond sharing the central part that vintage finds have played in shaping the Elizabeth and James concept as a brand, the stylish sisters also chatted with the magazine about what they think it takes to hunt for, and pin down, the best vintage pieces. Their biggest rule? Not following a single one.
“There are no rules” Mary-Kate told the magazine, with Ashley adding, “If you love it, buy it, because you may never find it again. That is the beauty of vintage.”
Now, we were never going to be ones to argue with the Olsens’ fashion advice anyway, but we’re especially willing to adopt a shopping philosophy that embraces saying “yes” to an impulse buy or two.