vintage connection- my greatest memory

in 2009 vintage connection won best vintage for philadelphia magazine and philadelphia weekly... i couldn't be more proud! here i am on the mini red carpet.

phrequency.com interview

Heather Waity, owner of Vintage Connection, is a woman after my own heart. Her 9th street store is a favorite location for browsing and buying and has been hailed for its selection by local press outlets and stylish bloggers alike.

The adorable corner store is stocked to the brim with some of Waity’s favorite finds including dresses from the 1950s as well as plenty of vintage denim and comfortable concert tees. Waity also sells original jewelry done by designer Esther K and has recently begun sprinkling vintage housewares into the mix.

We had a chance to ask Heather a few questions about selling vintage and her own personal style:

Phrequency: How long have you been in the vintage business and how did you get started?

I have had my store, Vintage Connection, for almost 3 years now. It began as an online business. I had such a great response I wanted to open my own store.

Tell me about your shop location? How did you find it, why did you settle there?

I have a corner location in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A realtor I knew found it for me. It was the first place I looked at and the last place. It was everything I wanted... hard wood floors, original tin ceiling, the right size and big windows that see some of the most beautiful sunsets.

What did you have to do to get your shop open? Was it a difficult experience or did you enjoy the whole process?

I opened the store in 2 weeks. I worked full time during this time as well. When I set my mind to something I can't stop until it's finished. Let's just say I did a lot of shopping before work and after work!

What kinds of items do you stock in your shop? Do you have favorite pieces?

I mostly stock dresses from the 1950's and lots of fun 80's pieces. My favorites are the 1970's dresses, bags, and concert t shirts.

What tips would you offer for incorporating vintage pieces into a modern-day wardrobe?

Learn what your customer likes. Take some chances, test the waters and you'll figure it out.

Where do you find fashion inspiration?

I find inspiration in run way shows, magazines, and blogs. I like to get vintage items that look modern.

Is there a specific trend you've noticed recently that women could pull off with vintage fashions?

Anything that makes them feel good. Specifically? 1950's circle skirts hemmed above the knee with a pretty top tucked inside.

What is your favorite decade for vintage? Do you tend to gravitate towards specific styles?

Personally I love concert t shirts and vintage denim.

If a woman had to have just one vintage item, what should it be?

Something handed down from a family member. They are my own favorite pieces and mean so much more.

Do you consider Philly a fashionable city? Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

I think Philadelphia is a very fashionable city. I am inspired by people everyday. My favorite Philadelphia places to shop are Vagabond, Third Street Habit, and Petulia's Folly. I actually do a lot of online shopping too.

written by: deidre wengen
photo credit: emily wren
styling: susan banchek

"you have fans hidden in far corners"

was the response i received once the news about vintage connection's closing reached the public. it was really nice to hear, because deep in the heart of this vintage world i created i know vintage connection was a true success. not only in my own eyes, but in the eyes of others.
the choice i made to move away from vintage connection's brick and mortar location came when i realized there were other avenues this venture awarded me the opportunity to do. for the moment the best decision i made was to pursue these other adventures and see just where the wind takes me. i hope you respect this decision i have made and will continue to follow my journey.
i would like to leave you with the idea that this doesn't necessarily mean vintage connection is ending for good, but take comfort in thoughts that bits and pieces of it may pop up somewhere else. keep a look out, because you never know!

here is the press release of vintage connection's closing that daily candy so tastefully sent out this morning:

SAY FAREWELL

Vintage Connection
What: Since Heather Waity is closing her beloved little shop at the end of the month, she’s offering 50 percent off all vintage (reg. $5-$125), starting this week.
Why: Snatch up the shoes while they last.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 701 S. Ninth St. (267-528-1625).

the store will be open until june, so go and take advantage of all the discounts! if you've never been, please go before it's closing!

in the weeks ahead i will highlight some of my favorite moments and memories from my 2.5 year journey with vintage connection. hope you enjoy!

~heather

afternoon siting

tati, from sticky note, purchased this 1970's flowing chiffon frock from vintage connection a few weeks ago. she posted some amazing photos of herself wearing this beauty in her flowering garden. she makes this dress look even more beautiful and i had no idea that was possible.





tati is wearing a 1970's vintage dress in a soft mocha. the surprise is inside... a beautiful peach hue.

happy may, philadelphia!!

vintage connection is featured in our favorite local magazine this month when our lovely esther k. necklace takes center stage in their "trimmings" section!


it reads "earth mother: she's already got diamonds, so this mother's day, give her one of the delicate, nature-inspired pieces showing up in philly's prettiest boutiques, for her everyday wear (and everyday thoughts of you)." ~ carrie denny



esther k. hand-cast "marisol" necklace , $150. at vintage connection, 701 s. 9th street, 267-528-1625, shopvintageconnection.com

someone else is bloggin!

i had the pleasure to meet susie, of mostly lists, and tati, of sticky note, a few weekends ago. They stopped in vintage connection with one thing on their minds, beautiful vintage. tati purchased a 1970's flowy chiffon gown and susie grabbed the amazing book, "the little guide to vintage shopping".

to my surprise, i saw this blog post this morning about their experience at vintage connection along with this sweet photo of tati (below)! if you have some time check out their blogs... you'll be addicted too!

thank you, ladies, for a beautiful post! it was a neat surprise to see first thing in the morning!!

vintage connection gets loved

two very special stories on vintage connection came out this week! take a load off and have a read.

philadelphia row home magazine

temple news

by rosella eleanor lafevre. thanks, rosella!

vintage connection on examiner.com

Vintage Connection - A Breath of Fresh Spring Air For The Accessory Seeker

There are several reasons why I believe Heather Waity’s shop, Vintage Connection, received Best of Philly 2009: Vintage, by both Philadelphia Weekly and Philadelphia Magazine. For starters, her store is conveniently located one block off South Street at 701 S. 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA. The store is a breath of fresh Spring air during a season of relentless Winter. Her large storefront windows not only display the adorable frocks and accessories of the upcoming season, but also the light that radiates from these windows illuminate the endless array of dresses, jackets, jewelry, handbags and shoes. This leads me to my second reason – the selection. Heather has a great eye for vintage fashion. The walls of the shop are lined with linen jackets, floral blouses and very cool retro skirts. A table in front serves as a display stand for earrings from the 1940’s, necklaces from the 1960’s and all sorts of costume pieces. I bought a pair of lilac and fuchsia button earrings. They will be great for Spring!
Heather also carries a line of jewelry by the designer, Esther K. Esther K. makes fusion pieces using antique or vintage items such as pins, barrettes or buckles and then mingles them with modern components to make striking and unique pieces for today’s fashionista. The adornment that really caught my eye was one I was told was featured on The 10 Show on NBC. It was a necklace with a two tier rhinestone former belt buckle turned medallion. The buckle was silver, but the designer used several gold chains, a gold clasp and gold fringes to transform it into the stunning necklace pictured here.
The third reason I believe Vintage Connection both received and deserved the awards is its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It is just a great place to be and you want to keep coming back. Heather makes everyone feel welcome and invites patrons to sign up for her e-mail alerts about upcoming sales and events. While I was in the shop, the door opened no less than a dozen times in every 15 minute period. People love to go to Vintage Connection.
Vintage Connection is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 A.M. to 7 P.M. and Sunday from 11 A.M. to 6 P.M. This allows Heather to do her buying on Mondays and Tuesdays. There is a new inventory every week. Note also, Vintage Connection carries a large selection of wallets, belts and vintage aprons. Right now, the Winter clothing and shoes are 60% off. At some point, the merchandise pricing will go to 70% off and towards the end of March, the thing we love to hear – the $10 Rack appears!
Lastly, I want to point something out. I mentioned that the store’s ambiance contributes to Vintage Connection’s success. Heather told me that the snow filled days of the past month actually helped to give her business a boost. She feels that as folks were walking around town trying to shake the Winter blues, the pinks and florals in her windows drew people in. So take an afternoon, shake the snow off your jacket and get your heels on over to 9th and Bainbridge. Spring is right around the corner!

~Christine Pilotti

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the sweetest blog post i ever did see

i found this over breakfast this morning... all dressed up in luv!

thanks, jenn! i love your blog too!! here are a few images from all dressed up in luv that i couldn't live without. you'll be hooked too!

vintage connection makes a debut in PHILADELPHIA MAGAZINE

"Philly winters call for an arsenal of cold-weather accessories - but there's no reason to look like you're headed for the slopes. The polished, ladylike style of opera length gloves makes bundling up chic." ~ Carrie Denny (white leather 1950's gloves are selling at vintage connection for $25.)

vintage connection on the NBC 10! show (thanks to daily candy)!

if you missed it today, watch it here:

fashionably under cover

philly2philly.com writes about vintage connection and the vintage coat trend...

As the cool air begins to whip about the city streets, we reach into our closets and dust off our coats from their summer hibernation. Seasons later, the colors may seem faded or maybe you’re missing a button. It’s not exactly how you remembered it.
Fall inspires change, from the color of the leaves to the coveted fashion trends on the runway. So, it seems fitting to honor and celebrate this seasonal transformation, both in temperature and apparel, with a new coat. Although if your wallet disagrees and you’re not longing to purchase a cloned piece of fabric from a chain store, you should consider taking a peek at vintage treasures tucked away on a rack waiting for their revival.
Vintage fashion connoisseur, Heather Waity, has made quite a name for herself in the Philadelphia vintage scene with her shop, Vintage Connection. Beyond winning Philadelphia Magazine and Philadelphia Weekly's 2009 title of “Best Vintage Shop,” photos of Vintage Connection were recently featured in “The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping: Insider Tips, Helpful Hints, Hip Shops.” With an eye for new trends and an old soul, Waity carefully handpicks each item for her store.
During her most recent fashion excursion, Heather was determined to return with a plethora of the best cold weather combatant and long lasting fashion statement, a coat. So I asked Heather to share a sampling of her favorite coats that represent the 2009 fall fashion trends (pictures of the following coats can be seen in the Photo Gallery on this page). She notes that fur, both faux and real, is a popular choice this season, “whether it's a full jacket or wool coat trimmed in it.” The tan coat with a mink trim offers just a hint of this trend for someone not willing to wholeheartedly jump in to the full fur piece.
Those immersed in the “Mad Men” culture will be happy to know that many of the styles from that era are popping up in vintage stores, like a wool yellow coat in Waity’s collection. She notes that one can achieve a true “Mad Men” look by “placing pins on the lapel.” And if you’re not sure what “Mad Men” coat suits you best, then pay closer attention while watching the next episode to see what truly catches your eye.
Beyond elegant fur and ladylike wool flashbacks, another trend that is dominating the runway and the streets is leather jackets. Heather’s “brown motorcycle and burgundy version are buttery soft.” Although if you are trying to achieve a look that is a bit more relaxed, you might want to opt for a denim jacket, a trend that according to Waity has carried over from the spring. This classic 80’s piece is perfect for chilly temperatures when lined with shearling, giving you a “laid back, cool look, [while allowing you] to stay warm at the same time.”
As you peruse the racks of vintage coats hoping to come face-to-face with a style that speaks to your fashionable soul, keep in mind that along with seeking out stylish warmth, you’re also practicing the art of sustainability. Heather notes that “reusing clothes helps conserve textiles which use a lot of energy and pollute the environment.” Sustainability takes on yet another meaning with vintage fashion, as you are not only prolonging the years of a garment, but also sustaining the memories that come with it. One can only imagine how many fall seasons that this coat has been through, the number of chairs it has been thrown over, or the amount of gloved hands that have sought refuge in its pockets. The next time you button or zipper your vintage coat, consider the fact that you’re not only supporting a seasonal trend, but also sustaining stories that live in every stitch. Just remember to make some of your own.

By alexis siemons

Vintage Connection
9th and Bainbridge Streets
701 S. 9th Street
267.528.1625
http://shopvintageconnection.com/
Wednesday - Saturday 11am to 7pm
Sunday 11am to 6pm
Monday - Tuesday closed to bring new vintage weekly!

*the photos above were added by me for inspiration and were taken from chictopia.com

November 5, 2009 Philadelphia

The Weekend Guide What to Do This Weekend

Take notes.

READ

The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping

What: Insider tips for storing, cleaning, and wearing your finds, as well as a rundown of cool shops to get your collection started.

Why: Everything old is new again.When: Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Where: Vintage Connection, 701 S. Ninth St. (267-528-1625).

Photo: Courtesy of Quirk Books

grid magazine

grid, the eco friendly philadelphia magazine, asked vintage connection to donate some clothes for their eco-fashion spread. check it out here. (pages 22 & 25)

the little guide to vintage shopping

several months ago vintage connection was asked to let photographers take some pictures of their space for melody fortier's new book "the little guide to vintage shopping: insider tips, helpful hints, and hip shops". i was more than excited to have some pictures of the shop make it into a published book especially about my favorite hobby... vintage shopping! this pocketbook sized book is a great guide to reference, but also makes a great gift to anyone who's caught the vintage shopping bug! we are pleased to be selling this amazing book in our store! we are currently taking orders, so reserve your copy now. email me at hmariexo@gmail.com to order your copy. $18.95 us

PHILADELPHIA | August 18, 2009
Roman Holiday
Heather Waity's Vintage Clothing from Rome
vintage connection!
You finally went on summer vacation — and all you got was a bad case of sunburn and a huge hole in your wallet.

But leave it to Heather Waity from Vintage Connection to bring back the souvenirs. The eagle-eyed globetrotter just returned from Rome with a heap of vintage scores.

She got colorful cotton dresses with embroidered details and bright prints from the ’50s to the ’80s from Piazza Navona or San Giovanni (large flea markets brimming with secondhand clothing). Everything is in natural fibers (mostly cotton and linen), including a slew of little shirts with interesting button details and necklines. A few are cut short, so you can rock them with high-waisted jeans or just your own belly.

Also, be sure to check out the accessories; necklaces with intricate detail made the flight back as well.

They’re pretty as a postcard.


Available at Vintage Connection, 701 South Ninth Street (267-528-1625 or shopvintageconnection.com).

Click Here!

philadelphia magazine 2009 winner!!!

vintage connection got philly magazine's 2009 best vintage award!!!! i am so honored and couldn't be happier. thank you all for helping make vintage connection one of philly's best!! i posted the amazing write up below...


"Wearing vintage makes us feel that if we were fancy ladies in decades gone by, we, too, would have dressed in garments so fabulous they'd warrant inclusion in future stores as beautifully stocked (with women's wear, jewelry and shoes from the '40s to the '80s) and meticulously edited (cute Heather Waity spends two days a week sourcing clothes from New York to Miami) at this Bella Vista gem." ~carrie denny

if you missed vintage connection's news debut last night...

watch it here:

http://cbs3.com/brewer/local.vintage.fashion.2.1068077.html
(there's a quick story, but be sure to click on the video link too.)

reporter, nicole brewer, highlights summer's hottest trends and asked for our help!

in the news

CBS 3 was at vintage connection today to do a story on why vintage clothes are getting more and more popular! reporter, nicole brewer, showed up to get the scoop. i got the help of one great intern, a super cute model, and 4 fabulous outfits to help me tell my story!

the first step was getting leslie in hair and make up...


the outfits were put together and separated by the biggest trends of the season...


we were prepped and nicole did a quick interview with me...



i had to get some shots of my super intern, sara. she was wearing a great vintage dress and cardigan that was handed down from family!




nicole loved this 1950's tulle skirt, but took home a pretty, pink romper just in time for her big 4th of july party!


to get the full story and see the looks we put together from summer's hottest trends, check out the CW, Philly 57's 10 o'clock news on wednesday, july 1st!!

new N.E.E.T

the new issue of N.E.E.T. just hit the web! the best part... vintage connection is featured! writer, andrea pippins, of fly girls included our 80's fabric, color-block vintage clutch in her summer picks! (pages 58 and 59)