Dreaming in Vintage with Lolo Reskin

© Pamela Wasabi / MFb

Lauren Reskin, or Lolo, how her friends call her, is a wonder of a woman who has established herself as the heart of Miami’s indie music scene. In 2005, she opened one of the most unique and interesting record stores in Miami, Sweat Records.

She recently invited me to her house to show me her vintage treasure trove of clothes. The clothes were magnificent, but paled in comparison to the passion she held for her unique findings. 

Describe your outfit head to toe.

Vintage reproduction dress by Stop Staring, ‘real touch’ yellow rose hair flower, Marc by Marc Jacobs bubble ring, vintage white peep-toe d’Orsay pumps, neon red nail polish.

Where did you find it?

Most were purchased online over the last couple years. The nail polish I got at Ricky’s on Lincoln.

Define your style; what are some of the main elements that shape your fashion steez?

I love clean, modern styles and wear a lot of black. I like to dress up when I’m DJing or going out but it’s usually a t-shirt and jeans when I’m playing in the records at Sweat. As you might imagine, I own a ridiculous amount of band t-shirts. I’m a vegan so I never buy leather or fur but have found fantastic synthetics to replace them – i.e. Matt & Nat of Montreal make sleek, modern bags, belts and wallets that don’t look it but are completely vegan.

You collect vintage dresses. How long ago did you started this pleasure and what got you started?

I’m pretty sure my interest in retro music bled into the fashion aspect. In the ‘90s Maki Nomiya of Pizzicato 5 wore the most amazing old mod and scooter dresses and now it’s great that Mad Men is making these styles popular again. I bought most of my collection on eBay but a few at vintage shops like Jezebel in Ft. Lauderdale. My favorite piece is a ‘60s Lacoste sailor dress in mint condition. I love the old details and tailoring – darts, princess seams, circle skirts, textured polyester, etc.

What benefits do you think that buying online has versus shopping at a physical location?

Selection, obviously. It takes a keen eye, a tape measure and practice to be able to buy clothes online and have them fit perfectly but you can score rare finds and/or great deals.

Who is your fashion icon?

Dita Von Teese. I would swap closets with her in a heartbeat. I love Gaga and Bjork too but wouldn’t want to dress like them.

Is there a certain period of time you would rather be in?

I miss the quality and workmanship of vintage items. It’s unfortunate that people are okay with “disposable” clothing like the stuff from Urban Outfitters or Forever XXI.

Centering in the now, what are some of your favorite shops in Miami?

There aren’t too many in particular but some brands I like are French Connection, Penguin, Zara, Ben Sherman, Calvin Klein. Trashy ads or not, American Apparel is still great for basics.

How would you rate Miami’s fashion?

A+, but that’s not talking about South Beach. Downtown has far more style because of all the different personalities and interests. There are so many unique and creative people around that’s reflected in how they dress.

What’s you favorite thing about Miami?

The weather/mango season.

Originally published September 21, 2010.