Adding a Vintage Feel to Someone's Closet

SEELEY LAKE – Adding handpicked, quality clothing that adds a vintage feel to someone's closet is the goal of the newly opened second hand clothing store La Rosa Vintage. Sole owner and operator Rosa Erck is excited to share her love of thrift stores by offering another shopping option in Seeley Lake. She offers clothing, shoes and jewelry options from the 1970s through early 2000s.

Erck used to work in a thrift store and loves shopping at thrift stores. She said she is an excellent organizer and loved setting up the space. Even though she didn't get paid, it was her favorite job. She always thought having her own store would be a lot of fun.

One of Erck's personal goals has always been to run her own business and work for herself. While she explored many different ideas, opening a second hand clothing store offered the opportunity to gradually add inventory as well as organically grow into other areas as the demand presented itself. It also offered the opportunity to reuse and recycle clothing while offering a fun, relaxed shopping experience.

"I didn't have to invest a ton of money on second hand clothing," said Erck. "I love to reuse and get the full life out of stuff because so much stuff just gets thrown away."

After several buying trips to other thrift stores and a few donations from close friends and family, La Rosa Vintage officially opened for business March 29.

While vintage can be defined in many ways, Erck focuses on clothing from the 1990s, early 2000s. She currently has some items from the 1970s and 1980s. Everything in the store is currently priced $20 or less.

"Because I don't take donations and I pick out every piece and I need to make a little money," said Erck. "I invest so much time in every piece but I want it to be affordable."

The walls and racks display plaid skirts, overalls and many denim clothing. Anything from pants, shorts, shirts, dresses, jackets, jewelry, sweaters and shoes are available for men and women in a range of sizes.

"I get stuff that I like, that is in really good condition and stuff that is in style now," said Erck. "I don't really know how I choose it. Stuff that is older but still cool."

Erck's long-term goal is to expand and making it something that supports her year round.

"I'm hoping everything will grow," said Erck. "I would like to keep a good turn over so people can come in regularly and see new stuff."

La Rosa Vintage is located in a heritage cabin behind the Seeley Lake Veteran's Memorial on the north end of Seeley Lake on Highway 83. The store is open Friday, Saturdays and Sundays from 12-5 p.m. Erck looks forward to hosting a grand opening this summer.

For more information La Rosa Vintage can be found on Facebook, Instagram @larosavintagee, email larosavintagee@gmail.com or call 406-499-0015.