Interview with PineappleMint

Kim from Pineapplemint.

Tell us the fundamental facts about you- Name, where you reside, your
history, etc
My name is Kim Harvey. I live in Chicago, Illinois and I am about to turn 29 (!!!) next week. I have moved around quite a lot in recent years and lived on both coasts. Last year I decided to return to my homeland of Chicago and I am loving it, frigid winters and all.

What started your love for vintage?
My mother was always into poking around in thrift stores and yard sales, so I caught the bug quite early. I recall her buying me this crazy 1970s snowsuit for a Girl Scout trip I was going on. While some girls might have been embarassed, I was excited. Later on when I was a teenager and everyone was getting into having the same "mall" uniform, I still enjoyed discovering vintage treasures and having unique items. I still love that aspect of it, and I also like being able to have a larger wardrobe because vintage items are generally less expensive than brand new, trendy things. And, they are typically better made!

Do you have an absolute favorite piece?
I have several pairs of vintage boots (mostly western style) that I love. Boots are the one thing I am always on the hunt for. I am always looking to expand my collection.

Can you describe your process for selecting items for your store?
I try to find a range of sizes and styles for my store, so that the selection isn't just limited to things that look good on me or fit me well. I generally just pick out things that I personally think are nice and are in good condition. I like to also have a mix of basics like blouses and such and other, more unusual dresses. I also like to find high quality shoes in a bunch of different styles. To me it's just a fact that vintage shoes are of better quality than what you would find in stores today, especially for the price.

What is your own personal style like?
It's kind of a mish mosh! In recent years it has changed considerably, especially because I lived in Los Angeles for a really long time where the styles can be more outrageous and there doesn't need to be as much concern for protecting oneself against the weather. Also as I get a little bit older, I look more for classic things for myself that will last for awhile. But of course I still am attracted to off the wall, unique items. In short, right now I am working out my own personal style. We'll see where it goes.

Besides running an online store, what else takes up your time?
Right now I am applying to grad school and studying for the GRE, so that is my main focus. I also help my boyfriend with his poker websites. In the last year or so, I've been on a major mission to improve my cooking. I can often be found in the kitchen experimenting.

What styles are you excited to see/sport this fall season?
I am so excited to take my boots out again! I am also a knitter, so I am looking forward to making a few new things for myself for winter and fall.

Where do you gather your inspiration?
Mostly just from staring at other people on the street, on the train, etc. I also love wardrobe remix, of course!

Any style advice that you would like to share?
I think it's really important for everyone to just wear what they like to wear and not worry about what's currently stylish. It is much better to dress in things that you love and that look good on you than to follow trends.