When I first met Tina Pahl of LuxuryDejaVu, I was fascinated by the way she sourced things, not only for her own brand, but for most of her vintage finds.
The majority of them while travelling around the world or online. She mixes colours and patterns in a very effortless way that makes you want to copy it.
She often combines brands and periods to create a whole new look without trying too hard.
Tina Pahl will be showing her edit vintage pieces at IRMA’S X-Mas Market on the 6th and 7th of December at Rosewood Munich.
But first get to know her in our interview. We had the chance to step into her personal dressing room in Munich.
IRMA: When did your interest in vintage start and what was your first experience of collecting vintage fashion?
TINA PAHL: – I think it was in my 20s when I lived in London for a short time. There was no particular reason for buying vintage. There was just a moment when I found my first pieces in London. Then I got some very old vintage pieces from my mother and I loved combining them with my contemporary fashion. Wherever I travel, I look for vintage and second-hand shops. The energy and vibe is usually just amazing and it is so much fun to go on a “treasure hunt”. Nowadays I like the idea of having something unique and of course it makes sense in terms of sustainability. And last but not least, wearing vintage is a way of presenting yourself.
IRMA: How do you choose your pieces, do you follow a pattern? –
TINA PAHL: I take my inspiration from everywhere. In the interior, in nature, in street style. I actually think in colours. I just follow my intention and I love to find pieces that I first store in my wardrobe. Then after a while I look at them again and feel happy because I have discovered something new in my own wardrobe. And of course I love colours and patterns and try to mix them as confidently as possible.
IRMA: Who is your role model (from any decade) who inspires your personal vintage style? –
TINA PAHL: There is no particular role model – but I would say my mother and several women like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn, as well as the bohemian vibe of Brigitte Bardot.
IRMA: What is your ultimate tip for combining vintage and contemporary pieces? –
TINA PAHL: There are no style rules and I would not wear vintage from head to toe, but your outfit becomes much more interesting and personal when you can match it with a vintage piece. Do not take yourself or your outfit too seriously. Don’t forget to play and my outfit has to be comfortable and easy to wear. I love combining high street fashion or my favourite denim with a vintage piece. In the summer it is much easier to just wear a great vintage caftan.
IRMA: What values do you associate with vintage fashion and how do you see this in relation to the current development of luxury brands? –
TINA PAHL: It would be crazy to throw away good quality clothes when a season is over. You should take advantage of well-made pieces that last a long time. And if you no longer like it, you can sell it. And of course, in terms of sustainability, it makes sense not to follow fast fashion. I love slow fashion.
IRMA: Where can your customers find an update of your latest vintage treasures?
TINA PAHL: The best thing is to follow my Instagram account, where you will always find my latest vintage collection. Or you can always send me a message. And of course I will be showing my latest vintage selection at the IRMASWORLD X-Mas Market at Rosewood Munich.
IRMA: Which venue, shop or fair would be your dream destination to shop vintage?
TINA PAHL: I have been told about a huge vintage fair in Los Angeles, I would love to go there. And Copenhagen is also on my bucket list and Paris and …. there are so many more. If I cannot travel, I spend hours on the internet looking for a particular vintage.
