By Kate Bartlett
So Last Season Vintage will open at 18 Washington street next Saturday, May 10, just in time for Mother’s Day. Owner and founder Sydney Zuech is looking forward to being a part of the Ellicottville community and has been planning this shop for many years.
clothing shop (Gado Gado) for several years. She graduated from The Fashion
Institute of Technology and Canisius with a focus in marketing and fashion
business
As can be expected by its name, So Last Season Vintage will stock a variety of unique, vintage women’s apparel and accessories. Sydney has an eye for long lace dresses, slips and tops; a timeless feminine look, but the shop will carry a variety of one-of-a-kind finds that will rotate seasonally including designer pieces. Sydney has a few men’s items, but is currently focusing on women’s apparel and plans to grow the men’s collection over time. She also carries handbags, accessories, shoes along with a few pieces of furniture and home goods.
Sydney grew up in Franklinville, and has worked in Ellicottville in a boutique clothing shop (Gado Gado) for several years. She graduated from The Fashion Institute of Technology and Canisius with a focus in marketing and fashion business. Sydney’s goal has been to own her own shop, with Ellicottville the ideal location. “It’s such a great community,” says Sydney. “There’s really no place like it, and I’m so excited to be a part of it.” She’s always enjoyed antiques and thrifting, so a vintage shop was the perfect fit.
The name “So Last Season” struck Sydney as a catchy name, and an appropriate fit. “It reminds me of Legally Blonde, when Elle Woods says ‘That’s so last season.’ It’s fun and it also applies because even when styles are ‘last season’, they come back around.”
Sydney enjoys shopping for vintage pieces and has been adding to her collection from estate sales, thrift shopping, and personal references. “I love hunting for new pieces,” says Sydney. “I also get a lot of personal recommendations of people looking to sell. I’m always looking to buy, and encourage anyone interested in selling to reach out. You just never know where you’ll find your next piece!”
Sydney started her vintage shop online last year, and plans to continue selling both on line and in store. “It’s great to be able to curate the look online,” says Sydney. “But there’s nothing quite like shopping in store, being able to touch the clothing and try on different items, creating your own look.”
The shop has a Victorian vibe, with florals, wooden accents and ornate gold mirrors throughout. “I was going for a soft, feminine feel,” describes Sydney. “It’s always been my style and it fits the style of most of the clothing. It’s timeless.”
So Last Season Vintage will officially open its doors on Saturday, May 10, and Sydney is looking forward to participating in the many year-round events in the community. She’s grateful for the support she’s already begun to receive. “I already feel warmly welcomed,” explains Sydney. “It’s incredible to bring this vision to life, and I’m so grateful for the community support.”
Sydney invites everyone to stop down to the shop at 18 Washington Street, or shop online at solastseasonvintage.com and follow on Social Media or message on Facebook if interested in selling any items.