Interview with EmpressJade

Lynn from EmpressJade



First and foremost, Tell us a bit about yourself- Name, location, your
backstory, etc.
I'm Lynn, Owner of Empress Jade Vintage, an online vintage clothing store based out of Victoria BC, Canada... and yes we ship Worldwide! I specialize in chic, fun and affordable women's clothing and accessories.  I've been selling vintage full time for a number of years, first on EBay and now mostly on Etsy.

What started your love for vintage?
I bought my first piece of vintage clothing when I was 13 with my paper route money.  It was a 50s angora sweater; bright pink, very fluffy, very tight... totally pin-up!  I remember my girlfriends were green with envy and I thought it was so cool to be wearing something nobody else could get. I've been a lover if vintage ever since.

What's your favorite piece in your inventory?
I've had this very unique 1930s blue rayon satin and silver embroidered net lace slip (or skirt?) with a train in my personal collection for years and I've finally decided to put it up for sale this weekend.  It's so unusual I can only imagine that it was made as part of a stage costume.


And I also love this killer 80s fringed suede jacket;  it's so over the top.


Can you describe your process for selecting items for your store?
I love dramatic or quirky pieces that are representative of their era. Bright florals,  lux details, anything with a unique sleeve or collar.  I try not to follow the current trends and I buy what I personally love. I also adore glamorous vintage lingerie and always have a selection in stock.

What is your own personal style like?
Victoria is a pretty laid back place, so I wear a lot of gauzy India cotton hippie dresses and tops, but I've been known to wear things from every era depending on where I'm going.

Besides running an online store, what else takes up your time?
My husband and I bought a beat-up 101 year old lime green house.  We're in the process of renovating and it's been a long drawn out project. .  I've been focusing most of my time this summer on landscaping and gardening. This spring I started my first organic veggie garden and I've been so excited to be harvesting my own produce.

What styles are you excited to see/sport this fall season?
I'm really loving the 40s influence in this falls designer lineup.  Elegant lines, sexy shapes and a big emphasis on the shoulders.