Kitty Jensen, of the Secret Shop
A few months ago I came across a super rad vintage Etsy shop, entitled the Secret Shop, run by LA's own Kitty Jensen. The Secret Shop lives up to its own name, only open by appointment or when announced. For the month of January, the Secret Shop is housed as a pop up shop at Space 15 Twenty, at Cahuenga and Sunset, which is one of my favorite LA spots, since its right across from Amoeba Records. I got to catch up with Kitty and interview her, and snapped some polaroids of the pieces available for sale.
How did you decide to start the Secret Shop?
When I moved to L.A. I found a lack of affordable, well edited vintage. I also found the city to be sooo spread out and big, and missed the sense of community that I felt when I lived in smaller cities. I loved the idea of a cozy, home based shop where people could come and shop and hang out for a bit.
Where do you find the vintage treasures you sell?
All over really. I'll never tell exact spots to anyone as it is my secret, but I scour all over Los Angeles and surrounding areas as well as areas in the North West were my family lives.
How do people find the Secret Shop?
Initially people found out about the shop by word of mouth and from business cards that I gave to people who I thought would like it. Now through blogs, articles, and through the grapevine.
Secretshopvintage.comWhat are your favorite pieces to find and sell?
This changes. At the moment I am very thrilled by 90's, chunky and soft sweaters, long dresses, and anything cropped. Anything with a unique print is exciting. I currently am preparing to design my own line so I am looking at clothes differently as I will find pieces that have potential, then I redesign and have it altered to be made flattering and modern.
What is your favorite upcoming trend for spring?
I always love high waisted shorts with sheer blouses and tanks. Flirty dresses with fun prints, and lace everything!
Who is your favorite musical artist, and who do you look to for style inspiration?
Hard to pick one favorite. I'm extremely inspired by music and listen to it constantly. Off the top of my head I will always love: Neil Young, Can, Sinead O'Connor, Bill Callahan, Daniel Johnston, David Byrne, Harry Nillson + a lot of new music like Panda Bear, Lil' Wayne, Washed Out, Abe Vigoda. I look for new music all the time. I've been listening to a lot of Beyonce too lately.
The pieces at the Secret Shop are great, they are versatile for any season, you can wear piece, or wear many. I know that I'll be wearing some of the lovely dresses I got to Coachella in April.
Be sure to check it out for the month of January at Space 15 Twenty!
Shop the Secret Shop online here.
