When Ruth Syratt ran out of room in her wardrobe at home, she opened up a shop full of her favourite vintage finds: Cha-Cha-Cha Vintage in Muswell Hill, which she runs with pal Megan Stevenson (who picks out retro homewares and furnishings while Ruth sources all clothes and accessories for the store).
When it comes to her personal style, Ruth is all about the 1970s (David Bowie is her favourite style icon) and is currently in a Stevie Nicks phase: velvet dresses, embroidered scarves, peasant tops and dramatic hats, mixed and matched with contemporary pieces.
She's also really good at sniffing out a bargain, like the brown 70s-era velvet Biba dress she scored for £2, and is always on the hunt for great new finds for her wardrobe and the shop, scouring car boot sales, private auctions and, most recently, Nashville (where she went this summer).
Take a peek inside Ruth's fabulous wardrobe and don't miss her top vintage-scouring tips below (or her adorable dog, Twiggy, who's as good a poser as her fashionable moniker suggests)...
When did you first get hooked on vintage?
I first got into vintage when I was about 13. I got very little in the way of pocket money so charity shops and jumble sales were where I shopped for clothes.
Three top tips for styling vintage wares?
Remember that you don't need to look like you've just stepped out of a time machine. It's all about fashion and what you love, so mix it up, old and new!
I had a lot of dresses in my wardrobe that were not being worn because I was waiting for the perfect occasion to wear them. Don't wait, just wear them. If you feel over-dressed, just team it up with a baggy cardi or a pair of old boots and old leather satchel. Now when I do have a special event, it's a great excuse to buy something new!
Over the years I've learnt not to get taken in by prints and fabrics. The cut and fit are the most important thing to feeling good in your clothes, so find a shape that suits your body shape and always try it on!
What are your favourite vintage eras and style icons?
My favourite era at the moment is the 70s but that's only because I'm trying to channel a Stevie Nicks vibe (probably from listening to too much Fleetwood Mac). I think my favourite style icon is David Bowie.
What inspired you to open the shop?
I ran out of room in my own wardrobe so having the shop is the best way to feed my addiction and be surrounded by lovely things.
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