Get to know...Spaced Out Mama Vintage
Meet Crystal, the brains behind the iconic Spaced Out Mama Vintage. With over a decade of experience in the industry, we're sure her iconic finds have been all over your explore page, teasing with vibrant colours. As fellow vintage lovers, we asked Crystal about all the ins and outs of vintage style, curation and her favourite pieces. Be warned, inspiration for your next vintage hunt in the rhythm of The Human Beinz and Fleetwood Mac, is GUARANTEED.
How did Spaced Out Mama Vintage start out?
It started out as a hobby/side hustle in 2011. I had always been a thrifter and had been buying and wearing vintage since high school so I figured I’d give sharing some of my finds a go. Then in 2018 I decided to quit my day job and take on the shop full time. That’s when I began curating 60s and 70s pieces exclusively since those have always been my favorite styles.
As a one-woman business, what are your biggest challenges?
Definitely juggling my time to fit in all of the tasks that keep the shop afloat. From curating and sourcing, washing and mending, photographing and listing, to shipping and social media (especially now with reels playing a huge role) it can be a challenge. I try to just take it day by day and see where the wind takes me.
Hundreds of vintage pieces must have gone through your hands, but what were the most memorable ones?
That’s a tough one for sure, but as far as what I’ve sold these definitely come to mind: the 60s DeWeese rainbow skirt, a 1970s Levi’s orange tab bleached denim matching set, a pair of Hi Brows Day Glo striped Go Go boots and a Corky Craig Peter Max style bird print duster.
And what piece you couldn’t part with?
My original 1960s smiley face bag is definitely one of my most prized possessions.
How would you describe your own personal style, aside from what we see from Spaced Out Mama Vintage?
My personal style is definitely more 70s and laid back. I’m usually wearing flares and a baby tee or cute blouse. Denim jumpsuits and rompers are a favorite and practical for my day to day as well.
What is your selection and curation process?
I like to source from as many different outlets as possible to have a good variety. I try to carry a range of sizes that fit within the shop’s overall vibe. I’m always looking for deadstock, novelty prints, jumpsuits, mini dresses, and anything unique and eye-catching!
Vintage trends always have a comeback in contemporary fashion. Any predictions on what will be the next big comeback?
I don’t really keep up with mainstream fashion but it definitely seems like the 90s/00s are having a moment! I feel like the 70s are kind of always in style, although I may be biased :)
Crystal’S MUSIC FAV’s
What are the most sought-after pieces that consistently sell out?
Definitely mini dresses of all varieties, but the babydoll style with puffed sleeves and collars are always a big hit. I’m always a sucker for oversized dagger collars and bishop sleeves. Also anything mushroom, smiley or novelty print does really well
And lastly, do you have any tips for customers who want to buy vintage online but might be worried about getting it wrong?
Measurements are your friend! Find a tutorial on how to measure yourself as well as how to measure the clothing. That way you can compare a sellers to something similar in your closet. From there you can start learning which measurements work best for you and how you prefer your clothing to fit. I’d also recommend keeping the fabric content in mind, something with stretch will be more forgiving than say cotton.
Check out Crystal & Spaced Out Mama Vintage on Instagram & Etsy ♡