Everything Old is New Again

Maybe it was my Nana’s influence (or Carrie Bradshaw’s), but I love mixing “old” with “new.”  Wearing one of Nana’s Bottega Veneta bags from 40 years ago can suddenly look so chic mixed with my distressed jeans and a Gap boyfriend blazer today. I’ve come to know this fashionable old stuff as “vintage”- a way of dressing that has grown in popularity over the last few years and I’ve become a bit hooked.

It only took about a minute after hearing of NOV, an amazing vintage collection, that I was begging to see it in-person. Fashion savvy mother and daughter team, Adrienne and Tracey Baskin, have been collecting vintage since before it was “in.” What started as a collection of men and women’s vintage t-shirts has now expanded to include jewelry, handbags, belts, clothing, and home goods. Adrienne also creates the most gorgeous frames and perfume trays from vintage earrings and broaches that make perfect one-of-a-kind gifts. With its overwhelming variety, when I first checked out NOV I had a hard time deciding between a runway worthy one-shoulder jumpsuit and a Givenchy gold necklace.

Cheeky girls can visit NOV by appointment at the Baskin’s home showroom in Highland Park or check them out at one of the many Chicago street fests coming up this spring.  Even better, NOV does amazing at-home parties: a great way to get your girls together for a little wine and some shopping.  If you’re on Facebook, take a look at “Vintage Adrienne’s” profile to get your first glimpse of NOV’s goods.

NOV’s pieces are affordable, too. Jewelry averages around $65 and dresses range from $35-$125, while Adrienne’s handmade frames and trays range from $150-$200.

NOV stands for Now Vintage, with the Baskin’s belief that “vintage never looked so now.” Believe me, with this amazing selection, novel pieces are what you’ll find. Check it out and while you’re at it, even snag an awesome tee for your boyfriend!

See NOV at

• Spring Fling at Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington St., March 20-21.
• Plumbers Hall, April 17-18.
• Randolph St. Market Festival, May 29-30.

Contact: tlbaskin@gmail.com to make a private appointment or schedule an at-home party or click here for more information.