WHAT VINTAGE FASHION MEANS TO ME + A JUNE STYLE SHOWCASE

By Justin Leggett

Throughout my life, I have always shopped second-hand. My grandma upcycled everything, curtains into dresses, clothes into baskets, towels into pot holders. When I enter a vintage store, it's equal parts treasure hunt and a walk down memory lane. As I browse the racks, I work to select pieces that tell a fashion story.

Growing up, I was never embarrassed shopping at the Goodwill on Dearborn. I used to spend hours getting lost in that store. As any thrifter knows, when you purchase something from a vintage store, it brings the item new life. Some of my favorite pieces are items I've picked up over the years at local vintage stores. I haven't always been able to buy what the fashion industry declares are this season's must-haves, but I could always find a similar item at one of my favorite vintage shops. I always say, "I'm Dearborn Goodwill to Dior!"

There are countless incredible vintage stores around the city, and I have some favorites that I always make a point to visit. I believe in shopping with people I love, and I know I've found the right place when I see how each store is curated—the owners' love for vintage always shines through, regardless of their personal style. I love getting creatively immersed in their shops. A couple of highlights include Lucky Lemons, also known as The Lemon Grove, and Indian Summer Vintage.

Jason Lemons of The Lemon Grove opened his Fremont Market vintage stall in 2016, and it quickly became a haven for clothing and other killer vintage finds. The shop is now situated in a brick-and-mortar space in historic Pioneer Square, where Jason has created a space that is not only a go-to destination for vintage clothes and accessories but also a place where "community always comes first," and you can feel it. Originally called Lucky Lemons, the brand has evolved into The Lemon Grove, a vintage collective encompassing decades of experience in discovering classic pieces. When I visit The Lemon Grove, the vibe is always bumping with a DJ spinning tunes in the shop; I can't help but sing along as I shop their treasures. Visitors are guaranteed to find beautiful, smart, and stylish pieces that will add personality and value to their wardrobe.

When I'm on Capitol Hill, it's impossible not to fall for whatever is in the windows of Indian Summer Vintage. Owner Adria Garcia moved into her spot on Summit Avenue in 2010, transforming the space into more than just a vintage store —a community hub offering high-quality vintage finds for everyone. The store specializes in a wide range of styles and sizes, providing an inclusive shopping experience. Not only does Adria donate 20% of her profits to charity, but she also hosts events such as workshops, meals, and dance parties.

Every item feels like it has been hand-selected by the gods to dress the new owner perfectly in their own personal love story, and that is the magic of Adria's touch coming through. When I need a new throwback, I head straight back in time to the jacket section to finish my look. The atmosphere of the store is like being in a living museum, one that you can touch and try on, all pure style and class. I always walk out of Indian Summer Vintage with something special.

To celebrate my love for all things VINTAGE, I'm excited to share that I will be hosting another style showcase at ARTE NOIR on Friday, June 6th, during the First Fridays CD Art Walk. Check out all the details below!

Join us for a Vintage Fashion Style Showcase during the Central District Art Walk — a celebration of fashion as living history. Curated by stylist Justin Loring Leggett, this showcase features signature pieces from beloved vintage retailers The Lemon Grove, Indian Summer Vintage, Throwbacks Northwest, Unknown Union, and JAMIL.

Each brand brings its own voice to the runway, weaving together garments that carry stories of the past while inspiring bold new identities in the present. At its heart, this event is about transformation. Fashion isn’t just what we wear — it’s how we remember, reclaim, and redefine ourselves. Through thoughtfully styled looks, we explore the power of leveraging our past experiences to shape a more expressive and sustainable future. This showcase uplifts BIPOC-owned businesses, celebrates sustainability, and honors the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Seattle’s Central District. By supporting local art and embracing personal style through one-of-a-kind pieces, we elevate vintage fashion into a form of storytelling — honest, resilient, and timeless.

ARTE NOIR Gallery Space

Friday, June 6, 2025 - Art Walk: 6 PM to 9 PM, Style Showcase starts at 7 PM

Free and open to the public!