In Dennise's DM's 01.09.23

What inspired you to start DP Vintage?

My love for vintage started when I was very young. My parents owned a little thrift store or ‘ukay-ukay’ in the Philippines when I was younger so I grew up surrounded by vintage and second-hand clothes. I started DP vintage when I started my PhD in Chemistry about 4 years ago. I had to wear a lab coat everyday so I couldn’t really wear outfits that I liked. DPV is kind of like my alter ego that I created for myself. It’s where I can wear things that I like but I could never wear in my day-to-day. DPV gave me so much freedom to express myself and to share my style and my love for vintage. I also wanted a hobby outside of academia to keep me sane and sourcing vintage for others to love was the perfect one.

What are you looking for when you are sourcing for DP? How do you know a piece is right for DP Vintage?

Sourcing for vintage pieces can be so overwhelming so I mainly look for the silhouette and any unique little details. I look for sleek and timeless silhouettes, such as A-line or straight midi skirts and square or cowl necklines, because they’re easy to style with modern pieces. I look for unique little details like a lace or embroidered hem, little bows or flowers stitched on or intricate textures that just make an outfit fun! It’s also important that I source clothes that I know I will wear and feel comfortable in.

What are your favourite vintage trends at the moment?

Pointed toe shoes have been in trend for the past few seasons and I am such a big fan! They were a staple in the early 90’s until the 2000’s and I hope they’re here to stay. Pointed toe kitten heels are so fun to style with baggy jeans and they easily elevate casual looks.

What is your favourite vintage piece you’ve ever sourced?

It’s hard to choose just one piece – it’s like choosing your favourite child! It would have to be my collection of vintage and archival Prada and Miu Miu shoes. Late 90’s to early 00’s is my favourite era in fashion and I’m always on the hunt for pieces from this time period. Collecting these designer shoes is so special to me because they’re very rare and they are literal pieces of art and fashion history.

What tips would you have for Rubettes styling their RUBY pieces with vintage? Where should they start?

RUBY pieces are so classic and timeless which allows you to play around with different textures and colours. When I’m styling, I always like to experiment with the different silhouettes. I like to juxtapose the fabric – the satin Firebird bodice with baggy denim jeans or the North minidress with lace tights. RUBY pieces also make for a great base to layer with different colours and patterns so don’t be afraid to play around. Of course, the shoes and accessories always seal the outfit. Vintage shoes have such unique silhouettes, like the pointed or square toes, that just make your outfit look so much more put together.