INTERVIEW #41 23 VINTAGE AVENUE
Based in: Costa Rica
Founded in: 2018
Founded by: Courtney Ramirez
Instagram: @23vintageave
Shop at/ship to: for the moment only Costa Rica but soon to be worldwide
Price range: $15-75
Can you please tell us about 23 Vintage Ave, what is your concept and why did you start?
We are a vintage clothing boutique. 95% of our items are true vintage which means they are at least 20 years old. We love the quality and prints of vintage fashion, and how it stands the test of time unlike a lot of the fast fashion brands nowadays.
How do you source the clothes and products that you are selling, where do the clothes come from and is everything vintage or a mix of second hand?
We mostly source here in Costa Rica at local second hand stores. I also source from Ebay and when I go to the United States, I always buy there. We have 95% vintage clothing.
Who is your typical costumer?
Costa Rican females aged 20-50.
Costa Rica is famous for its conservation efforts and ecotourism, but is that reflected in the fashion industry and fashion consumption? What can you tell readers from all over the world about Costa Rica and sustainable fashion?
Yes sustainable fashion is big here in Costa Rica. The industry has grown a lot over the last 3 years. There are tons of online second hand shops as well as a huge monthly fair called Bombazar that is only for sustainable second hand brands. People are becoming aware of the negative effects that fast fashion on our planet.
What do you think needs to change now in the fashion industry to make it more sustainable?
Start using recycled products and second hand clothing. They can also produce on demand items, they can also use better quality materials so that the clothes actually last more than a few washes. Make clothes that stand the test of time.
What is “greenwashing” according to you and what can producers and consumers do to avoid it?
To be honest I'd never heard the term before. I just googled it. Consumers can avoid it by getting to know the brands they are buying from. Do a little research and find out if the brand is actually sustainable or not.
What are the best vintage items one can look for in a store to build a sustainable closet according to you?
I think it would be best to start with versatile pieces that can be worn different ways. I love two piece sets because you can use them in very different ways.