Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsay Jirasek.
Lindsay, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started out selling antiques as a hobby when I was just 7 years old when my parents rented booths at local antique malls. I would sell ephemera and books. When I was in high school, my mom told me about some really interesting clothing that was for sale and asked if I wanted to expand — we bought a load of 1940s and 1950s dresses and it sold so quickly! (Probably because it was too cheap, haha). That started my interest in vintage and it rapidly grew from there. When I graduated from college no one was hiring in my field and I had to make a hard and fast choice. I decided to open the shop in Wheaton in 2012.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Finding good vintage is becoming harder and harder. As time goes on these items get collected up and hoarded, they get worn and become too worn out to continue trading and selling, and eventually fall apart. The older stuff is becoming more scare because it simply doesn’t hold up to the test of time. I think the biggest challenge is moving with the trends and transitioning my focus on what’s becoming “vintage” with every coming year.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Frocks and Frills Vintage – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
What sets me apart from other shops — especially other vintage shops, is the condition and cleanliness. I restore and clean literally every single piece in my shop, including the furs, hats, and other accessories. One of my biggest compliments is that the store is so clean, odor-free and well organized. Attention to detail is something I am proud of, because if there are flaws I cannot correct, I fully disclose any and all issues so people know what they’re getting.
One on one attention is another aspect of which I am proud. Each and every customer gets treated like royalty, no matter how little or much they are purchasing. Once I know your size and your tastes, I will remember your measurements and favorite eras forever! I have a photographic memory and can recall most of my customers easily and even remember what they have purchased in the past and what it was used for. I strive to keep connected with my clients and continue to hand pick items to suite their tastes.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
No big changes are on the horizon, but I continue to try to improve and fine-tune every aspect of this business. I think fitting in more and more product into my small 650 sq. ft. shop is definitely a daily goal! People think this unit is much larger because of my 14 ft. ceilings which allow my product to get piled high!
Contact Info:
- Address: 203 S Hale St.,
Wheaton, IL 60187 - Website: Www.FrocksandFrillsvintage.com
- Phone: 630 221 9400
- Email: FrocksandFrillsVintage@gmail.com
- Other: Etsy shop – Frocksnfrillsvintage.etsy.com
Image Credit:
Pat Ash
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
