Each item of clothing, whether it’s a fur-trimmed coat from the 1970s or a sundress or band T-shirt from the 2000s, Dead People’s Stuff Vintage Market You get a second chance to get into someone’s closet. The market, which will be held monthly from April 2023, is named after the nature of second-hand goods retailers and inspires curiosity about the story behind each garment. That is, who wore it, how did it get here, etc.
“Most of the original owners of antique and vintage items have since passed away,” says founder Jacob Bledsoe. “As collectors and enthusiasts of vintage and antiques, we love finding new homes for these items.”
Bledsoe and partner Kylen Smith, who had an interest in fashion and experience in event planning, held their first market after moving to Richmond the previous year. Since then, Dead People’s Stuff has brought together vintage fashion lovers at various venues across the city.
“Richmond had a thriving fashion and vintage scene long before we got here, so it was kind of the perfect location,” Bledsoe says. “We’re just grateful to be able to contribute to its continued existence.”
Bledsoe reviews applications from vintage collectors monthly and has built a marketplace lineup of about 35 vendors. He said interest from local residents has exceeded his expectations early on, and the market is growing accordingly. Bledsoe notes that food trucks and live music at pop-up venues contribute to the vibrant atmosphere that attracts new and repeat buyers and sellers.
Each store brings its own personality to the market, with details like custom signs that match its aesthetic. It’s easy to spot the Mini Thrift at Shanna Cookingham’s booth, next to a mustard yellow Volkswagen van. Cookingham says markets like this can provide inspiration for new styles. “Richmond is a lovely place, and I feel like Richmonders can really dress up,” she says.
Kitty Lou’s foray into vintage fashion began at the age of 14 when she started buying used clothes at thrift stores. Lou, now 17, sells bargains at several Dead People’s Stuff Markets. “I really like how eclectic it is,” she says. “A wide range of people of different styles and ages shop here. My collection is really eclectic, so it suits my customer base very well.”
Due to growing interest, Dead People’s Stuff plans to expand in 2025 by working with more venues. The market’s December pop-up will be held at Main Line Brewery on Saturday, December 7th. More information on food, music, vendor lineup and more can be found here and on our Instagram page. @deadpeoplesstuffva.
Source: Shopping & Style – richmondmagazine.com
