• Stephanie King, Painted Bird.

Vintage stylist celebrates two years in business

Milford Village People: Stephanie King

Meet Stephanie King, the stylish owner of Painted Bird in Milford.

When and why you did you start this business?

Exciting times! We celebrate our second birthday this October.

A customer once called us “kaitiaki” - guardians of sustainable fashion. Call us matchmakers connecting old loves with new devotees.

Once you experience the value of wearing exceptional Vintage imbued with timeless style and individuality, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Wearing Vintage is not just for the fashionista either – it’s a socially responsible practice in an industry which causes huge environmental impact. No throw away fashion here; it’s all about breathing new life into gorgeous garments that have been created to last. Think of me as a ‘sustainable stylist’ in a dream job curating treasures sourced from Europe and beyond.

How would you describe what is special and unique about it?

As far as we know, we are the only ‘True Vintage’ clothing store this side of the Harbour Bridge through to Whangarei. Free styling in-store mixing and matching pieces is the rule, not the exception.

Our bespoke pieces are handpicked based on design, era and quality. The result is a treasure chest of beautifully chic accessories, knitwear, day wear and eveningwear. If you’re on the hunt for a ‘stand out’ stunner for the Ball, a special celebration or summer party season around the corner, we have some extraordinary pieces with matching provenances!

Besides, if you need to update your wardrobe, think about making a sustainable choice first that respects Mother Nature while at the same time is cost effective.

What gives you the greatest buzz?

I love it when a customer tries on a piece then immediately twirls through the store. That sings out total joy to me. The pleasure of a perfect fit that’s in total alignment with their figure - they feel pretty again saying “Yes! I am going to wear THAT today and I am going to look FABULOUS!”

Then they come back into the store sporting their pieces encouraging other customers how easy it is to wear a lovely outfit. It’s all about opening your eyes to new creative, out-of-the box possibilities and most of all, having fun with fashion that transcends trends yet embraces true style.

What is your number one tip for anyone starting a business?

Follow your heart by being true to yourself and your vision - it is easy to be distracted when you see so much opportunity. I had the paper of a fortune cookie blow in from the street not so long ago saying “Good things will happen … be patient.” It’s stuck on my laptop as a reminder.

What do you love about Milford Village?

Our sense of community. You see it on the street daily. Everyone wishes the best for everyone else and actively promotes and supports each other. People often stop by just to compliment my windows or chat – it is wonderful to feel valued in our wee corner of the Shore.

Tell us what’s happening in store during September?

While we head into spring and summer, our garments are not dictated or driven by trends  - more by timeless style and quality.

So if you are travelling to a very warm destination now in Europe or the Islands, you need only to ask as I have a lot of treasures out back not on display. And look for daily inspiration on our Instagram page.

Please sum up your business in one sentence.

Painted Bird, the only ‘True Vintage’ store on the Shore is a ‘fashion adventure’ – answering the call of those on a quest for a timeless treasure of beauty.

 


Issue 91 September 2018