Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronnie Blades.
Ronnie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve been an avid lover and collector of vintage and antiques since I was young growing up in Pasadena, CA. My collection grew when I became a wardrobe stylist in the entertainment industry. I successfully worked as a wardrobe stylist for over 25 years sharpening my eye and growing my collection. My favorite eras in vintage are the Victorian and Edwardian era’s along with the 1930’s. Vintage was always my style esthetic as a stylist and my clients would often purchase vintage from me. I always dreamed of owning a vintage store in LA and traveling the world to shop for unique vintage pieces.
In 2017, I decided to take a leap of faith and RetroBlades was born. A vintage life style boutique offering one of a kind vintage pieces along with housewares and furniture. Prior to covid, I would sell my vintage collection at outdoor markets such as the Rose Bowl and high-end indoor vintage markets; A Current Affair and Pickwick. Early on in quarantine, I opened my online store and created a bi-weekly Sunday vintage sale on Instagram called LA to the Bay. My business has thankfully been very successful. I’m most proud that I’m blessed to be doing what I love and it’s something good for our planet by promoting sustainability.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Some of the struggles I experienced early on was having a black-owned business in a predominantly white industry that still struggles with systemic racism. I experienced some drawback from certain customers who would enter my booth at markets and would decline to shop with me or question my knowledge and prices because I was black. Because of this, I was apprehensive on being the face of my brand. A lot changed around the world after the death of George Floyd. Black Lives Matter movement catapulted and people begin to recognize racism.
RetroBlades – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition? It’s projected that by 2028 13% of the clothes in women’s wardrobes will likely be secondhand. Recycled clothing is projected to reach 51 billion in sales in 5 years, up from the current 24 billion in sales according to most annual sales reports. What I do best is finding unique one of a kind vintage. The hunt is my favorite part. What sets me apart from my competition is my lifestyle brand. I offer an amazing presentation when you enter my store. I sell special pieces of vintage clothing that you can work into your existing wardrobe as well as beautiful housewares to accent your home. Unique pieces that enhance your mood and uplifts your spirit.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I personally define success by will. The more you are willing to give towards your success the more successful you are. There’s something extremely gratifying in working hard at making your dreams a reality. That is true success!
Contact Info:
- Website: RetroBlades.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @retroblades
- Facebook: @retroblades
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