Mintage, a Vancouver vintage keystone, recently opened its latest storefront in the heart of Robson’s shopping scene. Named Mintage Cafe, imagine the newest addition to the family as your posh older sibling with a closet full of the most envious pieces.
A treasure trove of high-end and quality goods, Mintage Cafe is curated by owner Skylar Stocks and general manager Meredith Rokosz.
“The difference between this location and other Mintages is that Mintage Cafe is the high-end collection of Mintage, mixed with a collection of brands we love locally and internationally,” says Rokosz.
Instead of being hit with a slew of graphic tees and varsity jackets (which they still carry, but deeper in the store), walking through the shop feels more like being in a museum–except you can touch and try on the artifacts.
Some of their most prized possessions include a Gunne Sax dress made between the 60s and 80s and an 80s cream Dior suit that gives off major 9 to 5 vibes.
It’s items like these that keep Mintage Cafe on brand with Mintage’s reputation for quality vintage; separating from the other thrift and consignment stores that are also found around Metro Vancouver.
“Thrift is a fun hunt for a cheap deal on anything from any era that truthfully anyone can do. Vintage has years of experience and knowledge behind it,” said Rokosz.
The store rarely receives donations, as items are carefully curated to fit both Rokosz’s and Stocks’ personal styles, taking inspiration from stores they’ve visited all over the world.
“Skylar and I are actually both former employees of vintage stores along Robson, so it was a pretty full-circle moment when he got the lease to this space and asked me to join him,” Rokosz shared.
And what perfect timing at that. More than ever before, people are aware of fast fashion’s negative impact on the environment. According to a report conducted by thredUp (a U.S. based secondhand online store) and GlobalData, buying secondhand is a lifestyle that is continuing to grow all over the world.
Therefore having Mintage Cafe in Vancouver’s most commercial shopping district is not only unique but also important.
“It could not be a more perfect time to join the big boys downtown and slang the originals that our neighbours are knocking off,” said Rokosz.
Vintage enthusiasts and all lovers of fashion can expect Mintage Cafe’s launch party to take place on May 27th. More information can be found on their Instagram @mintagecafe.
@vancouverisawesome Which outfit is your favourite? #vancouverisstyling #vancouverfashion #vancouverbc 💃🏼 @Felicia Chiappetta ♬ Hand in My Pocket (2015 Remaster) - Alanis Morissette
