Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie DeMotte.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Natalie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
It all started in 3rd grade, when my teacher asked us to write a brief essay describing where we see ourselves in 25 years. I finished first! It was easy. I wrote: “I will be the owner of a vintage boutique shop”. Yes -“vintage boutique shop!” I was hooked on vintage early on and my career followed suit. I frequented every thrift shop, vintage spot and everything in between across the country, becoming a buyer for various fashion shops. I also managed many boutiques in San Francisco and LA, eventually becoming part owner in Los Feliz’s, Una Mae’s.
It was amazing but ultimately I wanted something that truly represented my brand and aesthetic. That was carefully curated, customized and accessible to folks. I cannot tell you how amazing it is to see all different types of people walk out of my shop, having purchased somethings special, with just that much more confidence and swagger. Because they found something that was not only one-of-a-kind, but it brought out the best in them. Just a true, grounded, authentic confidence. Fashion can give that to people and I am honored to be a part of it, especially in the Eagle Rock community.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Entrepreneurism is a rollercoaster. Sometimes, it’s the best damn ride of your life – it’s exciting and creative and your dream, realized. At other times, you’re on the rollercoaster and puking all over (and no one is going to hold your hair back.) The struggles can be anything from getting all the social media love to translate to foot traffic. Or for your online sales to be consistent. Really, my biggest struggle: doing everything myself. It’s hard to bring in others and come up for air every now and again. (I’m looking at you, vacation!)
But this is the deal, right? If it was easy, everyone would be owning their own business. I’m proud of where Top Knot Vintage is today and yes, there have been a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get her there.
Top Knot Vintage Boutique – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Top Knot is the featured spot for swoon worthy fashion in Eagle Rock. We specialize in upscale vintage ready to wear custom pieces and outfits, which is why TK’s Instagram is a main driver for the business. It’s page after page of beautiful outfits, curated by stylist and owner, yours truly. I’m onsite most days to help clients with free styling in the store as well.
I am most proud of the fact that Top Knot invites everyone into vintage. The store is what vintage boutiques should aspire to: beautiful, easy to navigate, affordable, open (read: not musty) and offering something for everyone. While we have the celebrity clientele and yes – it is very cool to be featured in fashion editorials, blogs and media, it is equally amazing to dress all of us regular folks to look and feel our best. What sets us apart is the beautiful, ridiculously cool pieces we have and the warmth that comes with the store. That makes me proud.
We also offer a platform for local artists and have pop up art shows, performances and artisan shops and more throughout the year.
If helpful:
https://www.instagram.com/shoptopknot/?hl=en
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopTopKnotVintage
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Opening Top Knot! It truly is my dream and vision, I realized.
I’m also proud of having the gumption to have a storefront in this climate because some things need air and light and to come from the community and be made for them as well. Humans interacting? Crazytown!
Contact Info:
- Address: 1583 Colorado Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041 - Website: www.etsy.com/shop/ShopTopKnotVintage
- Phone: 323.456.6491
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @shoptopknot
- Facebook: @topknotvintage
- Twitter: @shoptopknotla
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/top-knot-los-angeles
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
