Charlotte

Introduce yourself! (name age, where u live, are you studying, any plans for the future, how long have you been at RetroStar?..)

Hi I’m Charlotte, 24 born and raised Melbournian. I’m in between studying a Bachelor of Arts- Photography at RMIT. Ive been working at RetroStar since September 2021, I actually started at the same time as Gemma! Nearing my 5 year anniversary I have certified ‘unc status’. It’s been such a wonderful opportunity for me to meet like-minded creative friends. RetroStar is my home away from home.

What’s it been like to shoot for Retrostar? And also to work in store?

I love being able to practice my photography for RS! The shoots allow for creative freedom and collaboration with the other creatives that work here. This staff project for one has been so fulfilling to celebrate the people around me and give them their flowers.

What is your process of getting dressed in the morning? Where do you get your style inspiration?

I feel like I'm often experimenting with my style and trying new things. It's so fun and reminds me of playing dress up as a kid. I have a great appreciation for layering, mixing textures, colours and silhouettes but it’s important to keep it comfortable for you! I find accessories really sell an outfit. I have a huge collection of clothes at home. Probably too much to a point where it's sometimes overwhelming. So it’s important to cull, which I find hard as I see the potential in everything. When getting dressed I start with one item that inspires me and build an outfit around it, and if I can't be bothered I wear something comfy like a band t-shirt with trackies or baggy jeans.

What is your favourite thing in your wardrobe? And what is one thing on your dream wish list?

Probably for around the last 10 years it has been my absolute dream to own at least one pair of vintage El Dante platform boots. They’re so hard to come by, especially in Australia. My soul yearns for them… that and/or an extensive collection of John Fluevogs and uniquely embroidered and coloured cowboy boots.

If you could invade anyone’s closet dead or alive who is it …

I have a few style inspirations including Stevie Nicks, Helena Bonham Carter, Natasha Lyonne, Kate Winslet and Lindsey Lohan. I would absolutely raid the closets of any of those lovely ladies. Notably Helena’s Vivienne Westwood, Stevie’s lace coverups and platform boots, Kate’s evening gowns from the 90s, Natasha’s combat boots and tailored suits, and lastly Lindsey’s wardrobe in Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen! (one of my favourite movies growing up)

Do you see vintage fashion as a part of your future? Is it something you want to pursue as a career or is it just hobby?

I’m uncertain whether it will become integral to my professional life however It is a huge passion of mine. I love styling people for my shoots and various projects. I find it very satisfying curating a cohesive look with a strong vision, when things ‘click’ it brings me so much joy.

Where do you typically buy your clothes? And what do you look for in new pieces you’re introducing to your wardrobe.

Probably 95% of my wardrobe is thrifted items. I was raised op shopping so I've had years practicing, trial and error and successes. It helped me develop a keen eye for sourcing vintage and lasting quality garments. I look for vintage clothing tags, quality fabrics and fun silhouettes. My eye often wanders to a warm and muted colour palette. Also to keep an eye out for good brands, however I recommend to not let brands dictate your style, it's all about producing a style that’s authentic to you!

What is a trend you hate… what is a trend you loveeee?

I'm not one to hate on trends, fashion is cyclical and almost anything can be styled fashionably with enough dedication and a vision, you must also be willing to adapt. I’m currently loving the return of elastic headbands, ballet flats and capris. As someone who primarily wears boots, ballet flats have won over my heart, it feels very nostalgic, like my generation is rekindling our juvenile youth.

What is your favourite piece you’ve bought from RS? Is there anything you missed out on and you wish you bought?

My favourite item is probably my vintage frye boots (as seen in the pictures), I wear them so often I need to have them resoled. I found my holy grail bootcut jeans (also in the pictures) they’re my go to- I want to have a tailor copy them so I’ll never be without. But those are just my favourites, honestly my wardrobe is 85% Retrostar at this point.

Who has the best style at RetroStar?

I love everyones style, it's hard to choose, I love Lulu for her eclecticism, Gemma for her stylish ease, Scarlett and Ofri for their colour coordination, but ultimately I think my style aligns closely with Bella and Vicki.

What music are you queueing at the desk?

My music taste is very versatile, I love something from almost every genre from rock to pop to electronic to blues and yes including country, how controversial! but I always return to the ethereal, dreamy charm of trip-hop and shoegaze. Right now Ms* Gloom, Single Gun Theory and After are on heavy repeat.

What are your dreams for the future?

The future remains a mystery to me! That’s the biggest question I have yet to answer. There’s so many things I’m interested in that oftentimes it’s hard to know where to start. I live a polarising hedonistic lifestyle currently as I come to decide. Although I know I must bite the bullet and start the next journey somewhere even if it’s not the end all be all. So… TBD, but probably investing more time in my photography to achieve the greater goal of making my passion my full time gig.

Credits

Project Director
Luella Fitz

Interview and Transcription
Luella Fitz

Photographer
Gemma Miller-Greene

Photography Assistant
Luella Fitz

Photo Editor
Charlotte Jaffrey

Illustrator
Luella Fitz

Model / Interviewee
Charlotte Jaffrey