Want to go vintage shopping?
Paulami Sen, a creator, content & brand strategist, tells you how!
Hello, everyone! 👋
Welcome to Over a Coffee, where we talk small businesses, fashion and all things gorgeous.
Today’s newsletter edition has recommendations not from me, but from Paulami Sen. A journalist-turned-content strategist, Paulami is one of my go-to people to talk all things skincare and sunscreens (yup, she loves them!).
She’s someone who’s got a great personal style and I can’t get enough of our conversations on fashion. So, I figured why not interview her for this edition?
And that’s what you’ll read. 👇
Sunaina: Can you name three Indian apparel brands you love and why?
Paulami: Last year, I discovered Qua, an indie label where I shopped for a workwear fit. I've always sought a brand with well-tailored workwear, and Qua was a perfect find. Interestingly, their unique offering provides a video call with a stylist, allowing me to carefully review and select my choices.Â
My fascination for dreamy kurtas crafted from luxurious Indian weaves drew me to Juanita by Shubhda. Additionally, I enjoy wearing tees, tanks and loungewear from March Tee. I also like Dressfolk and Maikai.
Sunaina: How do you discover small businesses today?
Paulami:Â During my years writing about fashion and sustainability for my last publication as a journalist, I researched indie brands and often spoke with numerous designers to better understand the community. As a result, I still keep a tab on their work, eagerly anticipating new collections and discovering emerging brands. Additionally, I frequently explore publications like Homegrown that highlight new labels, keeping an eye on indie brands showcased at local exhibitions. Of course, Instagram is one of my most significant sources for discovering brands these days. The algorithm knows what I like and consistently suggests excellent options for me (haha).
Sunaina: You talk quite a bit about vintage shopping and pick some while travelling out of the country. Are there any trusted Indian websites for us to shop for vintage clothing?
Paulami: I love Carol's Shop and Tea Room, which Carol Humtsoe, a model-turned-fashion entrepreneur from Dimapur, Nagaland, runs. She curates vintage shirts and dresses from her worldwide travels. I have a lovely shirt that I ordered from them. I like Viange Vintage for accessories — they offer rare brooches and earrings. I have shopped from Bodements and quite like them. Also, another Instagram page, Lali Vintage, has been on my radar for a while; they offer a pretty elegant curation.
Sunaina: What are the top two things to consider while shopping from vintage or thrift stores?
Paulami:Â Do your due diligence and shop from brands well-talked about in the media. Ensure you conduct thorough research before making a purchase, check if they have been recommended by other buyers and look for available reviews. It's crucial because, most of the time, buying vintage means investing. Go to communities and DM people who are adept in shopping for vintage, as they usually are very forthcoming with information. Luckily, there's not much gatekeeping among this very enthusiastic community!
Sunaina: What's your advice for someone trying to build a personal style?
Paulami: My advice is to start with a concise capsule wardrobe — cut it down to the basics and donate or keep aside for upcycling whatever you don't like or don't wear anymore. Once that's done, you decide how much pop of colour or variation in style you want. Decide the kind of look you want to pursue and buy accordingly.
Having fashion role models at times helps. There's nothing wrong in admitting your style has something borrowed — that's beautiful. Upcycle, upcycle! Restyle and rework old stuff in your wardrobe and give them a new shape.
Also, I might sound serious about it, but it's just styling at the end of the day, so go as creative and wild as you want!
Sunaina: Two creators we should follow on Instagram?
Paulami: Only two? I'll give you 4! It's a tough call, but okay. Give Snejyo a follow for some serious style inspo and Iris Apfel for ageless and awesome content. I love Vivthemole, helmed by Viv, a writer with excellent makeup and styling aesthetics. Also, check out Lyn Slater — her page is super wholesome, and her style has me hooked.
If you’ve enjoyed this conversation, follow Paulami Sen on Instagram and grab more recommendations on fashion, vintage shopping, and skincare.
I’ll be back with another story soon. Until then, leave comments, send emails, and tell me what you’d like to see from me?
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