Ouna's Closet Vintage Store Tienda San Juan Puerto Rico

Charlotte London.

2012-01-29T09:56:00.003-05:00

Charlotte London walked into my life last year when I was participating in Plaza Las Americas in their Feria de Antiguedades (Antique Fair). I met hundreds of people in that september event, but one of the few that struck me with their amazing style and grace was Charlotte. She is awesomely tall, with fabulous golden blonde hair and always impeccably dressed and styled, even if she tells you that she's "casual", she looks fabulous. Charlotte has become one of my favorite people to talk to and be inspired by, for besides the qualities I have already talked about, she is also incredibly hard skinned and tenacious in achieving the goals she sets for herself. I am so happy to have met her, and to be able to work with her in her model porfolio, a sample of which is here. Enjoy!

Fashion Shoot Preview.

2012-01-29T09:51:00.002-05:00

My good friend and fabulous stylist Mónica Pérez came to the shop about a week and a half ago in a mad rush because she had booked a shoot the night before and needed pieces to style it. Of course, we provided her with everything we had and helped her make some amazing outfits. She was going to work with an amazing team. including photographer Joel Padilla, to make a porfolio shoot and the inspiration was edge, bohemian, and of course, vintage. These are a few preview photos from the shoot, I can't wait to see the rest!!!

Fashion Editorial: New Condado Magazine.

2012-01-25T09:30:00.006-05:00

dress, Ouna's Closet

dress, Ouna's Closet

white fringe bustier top, Ouna's Closet

belt with chains, Ouna's Closet

earrings, Ouna's Closet

credits:
Stylist: Christian Ramírez
Fotos: Abnel Gonzalez
Maquillaje y Peinado: Ingrid Román Olivieri
Modelo: Perla González de Element

nudes, beiges, blush, oh my!

2012-01-20T00:27:00.006-05:00

I've been super inspired by all these ice-cream tones for pre-spring 2012. Also, since the new shop's layout is by collections, so to speak, there is a full rack of yummy vintage pieces in all sorts of creamy, delectable ice cream shades of nude, beige, vanilla, blush and mint. I'm also loving hand-tatted lace, frills, cute details like little bows, and of course polka dots. Here are some of the new vintage tops that have arrived to Ouna's Closet in Guaynabo.

Jimi Hendrix: The Lost Photos.

2012-01-17T21:27:00.012-05:00

Awhile ago I saw a Pawn Stars episode where photographer Ron Raffaelli took alot of unpublished photos of Jimi Hendrix to the shop for them to buy. There were some amazing tour photos, band photos and promotional photos he took in the years just before Jimi hit it big. I found a little insulting that the Pawn Stars guy only offered him a measly 15k for the photos, most of which had never been seen by anyone, but Ron looked a little pressed for money (at least that was how it was portrayed in the episode) so he took it. I'm glad the photos are now out there for everyone to enjoy, but kinda sad that he had to take them to a pawn shop to get something out of his art. If you want to know more about his work and want to support it, click HERE.

The Ouna Girls: Bianca.

2012-01-17T21:22:00.006-05:00

I met Bianca at our shop, she came in one day and we started talking like we had been lifelong friends. What first struck me about her was her incredible head of long black hair and her beautiful Frida Kahlo eyebrows. She looks amazing in everything we dress her in and since she loves vintage and wears it often she has tons of ideas when it comes to our styling for the facebook catalog photos. She is a delight to work with.

Current Inspiration: Vivian.

2012-01-17T20:18:00.004-05:00

New Fábrica R3 has arrived!

2012-01-17T19:25:00.005-05:00

One of the major goals for the shop when I opened was to have our own vintage renewal line. Inspired by SuperluckyCat, Urban Outfitters and Vintage City Classics, who churn out amazing pieces every season, I wanted to re-invent all that vintage surplus that just didn't quite work for selling as it was because of staining, sizing or simply because the shapes were not quite right. Francis and I made our first batch of 10 pieces close to two years ago, and it sold out within a week of it being put on the rack. Since then we have moved forward at a steady pace in Ouna's Closet with the line, turning out jackets, sweaters, tops, skirts and dresses. We produce the pieces by first doing a little research into what's trend, of the moment, and what styles we can use the surplus we have at the time to make into. Our renewal keeps as much of the original piece intact, but making it wearable in our modern aesthetic. The pricing of the pieces also is very affordable, with most separates running from $14 to $20 and dresses in the $38-$45 range. This year, I'm finally working jewelry into the line's offering, using all the broken vintage jewelry that we have stored and repurposing it into wearable art. I'm so excited!!!

Mi Mujer.

2012-01-17T19:17:00.004-05:00

"Style is what you have to say and what you think. Anyone can wear an amazing designer’s outfit, but it doesn’t make you stylish. As an artist and as a woman, I feel duty-bound to say that. Style is about who you are and how you live your life."
I have loved Shirley Manson for, like, EVER. I remember the first time I saw her, it was as her "I'm only happy when it rains" video exploded onto my television screen and her sultry, hypnotic voice sang its' way directly into the center of my soul. Her music saved me more than once during the very tumultuous years of teenagedom. My lifelong dream has been to see her live, and drink in her awesomeness with Garbage. I am so happy that their new album arrives this year. This V Magazine spread for this month's issue just proves that at any age, this woman is timeless, an icon.

My Noma for Ouna's Closet.

2012-01-08T14:47:00.003-05:00

I've known Nora Maité for about 5 years now; we met when we both used to do the bazaar circuits selling our jewelry lines in Puerto Rico. She later moved to the US to pursue further studies and opportunities, but we never lost touch and would talk on myspace, and later, facebook. I am so happy that she is back to her first love, making spectacular jewelry. Her new line is called MY NoMa, and it is all about the girl who loves to stand out, be seen, and make a statement. Her jewelry is completely made by hand in her studio, using out-of-the-box materials and techniques like telephone wire, resin dripping, rhinestones, semiprecious stones and goldfilled wirework. I am so proud to announce that MY NoMa is part of our new group of house designers at Ouna's Closet, called "IN-Nova". All of our designers are stars in their own right, and produce their creations using innovative techniques. We will be profiling our other "IN-Nova" designers this week. Our little vintage and contemporary shop keeps growing!

Grand Prix.

2012-01-08T11:40:00.001-05:00

I'm loving all things 60's this year. the pastel colors, the hair, the dancing.

I'm now a guest blogger!

2012-01-05T21:30:00.004-05:00

I was approached at our december swap event by Lilliam Nieves, one of the owners of a super cool website in Puerto Rico called Trance Líquido, to become a guest blogger for their site. I was so thrilled, yet scared, to be given this incredible opportunity to talk about everything else that goes on in my life that's not vintage shop-related (which is not much, but it counts). Also, it gave me the chance to flex my writing fingers, which had not explored writing anything fluidly for the past 10 years. Well, I sat down and wrote my first post, titled "Resolutions" and sent it in. Not hearing back from her for almost a week, I thought that it was terrible and they didn't like it. Little did I know, they loved it, and published it TODAY!!!! So, now I'm going to be musing and perusing over at my guest blog on Trance Líquido called She Walks in Beauty. I'm so excited! So in addition to reading about our puertorrican vintage shop here, you'll be able to read more of my explorations on this road called life over at Trance Líquido. Yay!

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-01T21:08:00.002-05:00

I am so excited about all the new things coming to out expanding shop in 2012. Last year brought us alot of growth and learning experiences: we included as part of our store's offering Miss Francis Atelier, a spot for clothing alterations and sewing inside our shop; we are now selling our vintage at Love is You and Me, a concept store in Santurce's calle Loíza in San Juan; we opened up a men's vintage section that has been wildly successful and continues to garner fans among the island's fashionable men; 50's and 60's vintage was included as a new addition and was well received; we participated in Plaza Las Americas Feria de Antiguedades for the first time and had an awesome time; we moved the shop to a larger, better location and we are rocking it; we have continued to develop our style and have been expanding our vintage selection to include designers like Gucci, Valentino, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, YSL, and Ungaro; we have also been bringing select island jewelry and hair piece designers like MYNOMA, Boho Chic, She-Bop, Mic Urban, Sofia Arana and Frolain. I am also happy to say that I have been able to find time to continue developing our inhouse accessory label AgnesEmilia with new jewelry and hair pieces, and our experimental vintage reworked line that we started last year, Fábrica R3, has sold out every run of pieces we have made. I am also so happy to have been able to work with amazing stylists, models and photographers to include vintage in their shoots and stories, to continue spreading our credo that creating your own style is all about mixing up modern contemporary pieces you own with fantastic vintage pieces.

This year poses alot of challenges, as well as alot of goals. I go to work each day with a song in my heart and a deep love for what I do. Working in fashion is incredibly fulfilling for me, I feel that having this store pushes me in exciting and innovative directions constantly. I am so happy to be able to share this love for fashion and the past with so many people, all my clients and friends are so dear to my heart.

Thank you for a wonderful 2011, and welcome 2012 with all the joy and growth I know it will bring.

The Ouna Girls: Paola.

2011-11-24T14:17:00.005-05:00

Waif and Pixie at the same time, with an incredible head of curly red hair that reaches to her knees, I first met Paola when she came to one of our Bazaars in Old San Juan. She is the sweetest girl ever, endowed with such peculiar features and such a tiny frame that she fits into the few XXXS pieces I have brought into Ouna's Closet. She was one of our muses for our Spring Lookbook, and we have also featured her in the shop catalogs and on our main page on facebook as well. We just love working with her.

My hair keeps growing.....

2011-11-02T14:06:00.003-04:00

I have been growing out my hair for the past year now, and I am so excited to be able to braid it like this girl. Having been blessed with my father's genes for thick, abundant hair, it grows incredibly fast, especially with our humid weather. I wash it every three days with a color-protective shampoo and conditioner for dark tones, and afterwards use an antifrizz creme, a protective balm (because yes, hair needs some SPF too to fight against breakage) and pin curl it until it dries to soft waves. My husband loves when I pin curl my hair, he finds it cute and sexy at the same time. Once dry, I set the waves with a little spray, and don't brush the curl out.

Us In About 50 Years.

2011-11-01T13:31:00.003-04:00

We open today!!!!!!!

2011-11-01T11:00:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited that today is finally here!!! We officially open our new, larger, loft-like space in Calico Court, carr #2. The space is like a NYC type apartment, spacious, eclectic, and super stuffed! of vintage clothing, jewelry, handbags, belts, accessories for guys and gals, as well as new contemporary goodies like jewelry and handbags that I have found from different new spots all across the globe. Francis Rosario has her sewing and custom clothing area all set up to receive all of you, and her Befriended handbag line will also be sold here. I am over the moon excited about this new space, there is so much that we will be able to do with it, it's super amazing!!!

Come by, and have a peep or two! I am sure you will love it as much, if not more, as I do.
Thanks as always for all the love and support you have given us these three years. Hay Ouna's Closet para raaaaaaaaaaato!!!!

Happy Halloween.

2011-10-31T13:00:00.001-04:00

Our Vintage Icon for Halloween, forever. Winona Forever.

Ouna's Closet in MATTE MAG.

2011-10-30T13:49:00.001-04:00

We were featured in MATTE MAG's last online issue! I love how this site started out as an inspiration and fashion blog and has developed into an online magazine that features local and international avant-garde shoots by well known and emerging photographers. It is such a refreshing vision to the traditional publications in Puerto Rico. I am so proud of Rocío and can´t wait to see all the new things coming from her, she is so inspiring.

Mauricio Anzieri.

2011-10-29T13:40:00.001-04:00

TVILF. (new feature!)

2011-10-28T17:00:00.005-04:00

Thank Vintage It's Links Friday! Every friday from now I'm posting 5 links to articles or posts that I love and/or that have information on vintage fashion for all of you. So excited about this!

This article on the Etsy blog features alot of good information on the fabrics being produced today, and where your clothing ends up after it gets discarded.

The second article, also from the Etsy blog, details how clothing prices have reduced through the decades as outsourcing, cheaper labor, and fast fashion has taken hold of the clothing market.

Miss Liebemarlene is now Mrs. Liebemarlene!!! I was so happy to read that she got married a couple of weeks ago, and our third link sends you to her bachelorette party, which was so much fun!!!

I seriously love this blog. Always.

One of the first blogs that I got hooked on was this one. Miss Sally Jane is absolutely fantastic, and this post has my favorite trend for fall done perfectly: Fall Nautical.

Enjoy! Have a good weekend!!!

Sailor Moon Redux.

2011-10-28T14:45:00.002-04:00

I love how this magazine took the idea of Sailor Moon and did it in such a modern, and somewhat gothic way. The model is absolutely spot-on. Love it.
Sailor Moon Shoot- Hysteria Magazine
styling: Gary Armstrong
hair: Liam Curran
make-up: Yuka Hirata
model: Daisy at Union

Vintage Birthday, Ouna's Closet Style.

2011-10-28T13:35:00.002-04:00

We love to help our clients and friends that visit us in Ouna's Closet plan their events. Alexandra came into our shop needing help with her Vintage Birthday Theme Party, and we were more than happy to help her! Her dress was made exclusively for her by Yayi Perez, a local Fashion Designer who is now finishing her studies in Fashion Design in FIT in New York City. We were so excited when she later sent us photos of her party, which came out perfect.

Thursday Timspirations.

2011-10-27T13:22:00.004-04:00

Just in time for Halloween.

My Very First Press, Ever.

2011-10-26T13:43:00.000-04:00

Necklace made of fibers, coconut seeds, shells and charms designed by Angela Ortiz.
Jewel tone earrings and ring designed by Angela Ortiz.

The first time I appeared in the press was in a Por Dentro shoot for El Nuevo Día called "Sirenas de Lujo" in May 2008. It was styled by Maricelle Rivera. My jewelry line at the time, called Eklectika, was featured with swimsuits for the summer season. It was shot in a beautiful seafood restaurant in Guaynabo called Seaside, that closed the following year. I actually assisted Maricelle in the shoot with my jewelry, and remember how much fun I had actually helping her vision become a reality.

Grunge Revisited.

2011-10-25T14:00:00.000-04:00

The first time I saw this shoot was under the covers late at night after having stolen my older sister's December 1992 Vogue. She would have killed me if she had seen my tweenie fingers all over her precious Vogue. I was hooked on the styles, the utter "it's the end of the world and we know it" vibe that encompassed this whole decade. It was such a counter-culture change to the minimalism of the 90's, the bland tones and simplistic styles that had taken over the runways (which of itself was a reaction to the over the top fashion of the 80's).

Back then it was all just a dream.

2011-10-25T13:27:00.001-04:00

I used to make jewelry and clothing in my little sewing machine at home. I did the whole bazaars circuit, and developed my dream of having my own shop between working full time in other shops and studying marketing in college. I found this rare photo of me at a bazaar in 2007. Little did I know the roads that I would follow, and the people I would meet on my way.

The Ouna Girls: Yulianna.

2011-10-24T14:13:00.000-04:00

shoot styled by Javier Scalley, photographed by Miguel Figueroa.
I am slowly going to be presenting our Ouna Girls, a series of all our models and muses that have worked with us in Ouna's Closet. Yulianna is one of the sexiest and at the same time sweetest girls I have ever had the fortune to meet. She instinctively knows how to move her body to get the best shot, and has such beautiful doe-eyes. She's incredibly versatile, which accounts for the fact she's been such a successful model in Puerto Rico.

Monday Inspirations.

2011-10-24T11:00:00.001-04:00

Olsen Twins.

2011-10-24T00:03:00.003-04:00

I think the prettiest spread I've ever seen of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. They look like normal, happy girls as opposed to their sometimes dramatic looks. I love it.

Lara Stone, Vintage.

2011-10-23T19:49:00.003-04:00

Sunday Lovespirations.

2011-10-23T19:10:00.004-04:00

Blanca Vi for Magacín.

2011-10-23T18:58:00.002-04:00

One of our very good friends and Ouna's Closet lover, Blanca Vi (also designer for Frolain) had a "day in the life" photo shoot done for Magacín, a new lifestyle/high fashion magazine from El Nuevo Día, Puerto Rico's main newspaper. She used some of our vintage pieces that she rocks in her own wardrobe for the shoot. The shoot came out so perfect, edgy, chic, fabulous (just like Miss Vi).

Crazy for Turbans!

2011-10-23T18:35:00.005-04:00

Daniela Droz rocking our black turban on her photo shoot (styled by Monica Palacios)

Our Turban Hats in El Nuevo Dia!!! (Puerto Rico's main newspaper)

Here at Ouna's Closet we are always trendcasting. One, it helps us with styling our vintage pieces in a contemporary, modern fashion that fits with today's aesthetic, and two, because seeing how modern trends all take inspiration from vintage fashion is so much fun. One of this year's biggest trends has been using turban hats as an easy way to spruce up any outfit. We are the only place on the island that sells turbans, and we are so happy to be able to keep all our girls fashion-forward and chic. The modern way to use turban hats is with your hair loose, and if you have bangs, to have them peek out from beneath the front of the hat, it's so flirty that way! For this Fall/Winter season, we will still be offering Turbans to our Fashionistas, in velvet jewel tones and muted fall colors like gray, brown, navy and purple.
Here are some inspiration photos, taken from our own Ouna Gals album on facebook:

We Are Moving!!! Reopening on November 1st!

2011-10-23T17:50:00.002-04:00

Well, in this video above (just in case you don't understand spanish) I'm basically explaining how happy I am to be able to take this step with the shop, and move it to a larger, more accessible location on carr. #2, in Calico Court. This vintage adventure has taken me so much farther than I ever thought I could go with my dreams; I have dressed amazing men and women, of all ages and sizes, and have met so many inspiring people these past three years. Moving to Calico Court means so much more than just more clothes and accessories for all of you (although I have to say, I am truly excited to be able to have more in stock of all the things you need for living out your own story) it means a chance to expand on so many ideas, projects and roads that I have had planned since the beginning of Ouna's Closet. I am truly excited, so happy, and feel very blessed to keep sharing this, our adventure, with all of you.

The best is yet to come!!!!

Where'd Paraphernalia Go?

2011-10-23T17:34:00.002-04:00

I have been a fan of Paraphernalia's unusual necklaces since 2008. I had always wanted to buy one, being their beautiful jewelry perennially on my wishlist I never got around to getting any. Last year I finally got around to searching for them, but saw their website was down, their etsy had dissappeared, and after a simple search I found a couple of questionnable reports that Ms. Vanda had not made good on orders that people had made and paid for. Well, I scratched them off my list as one of the casualties of the internet (or real life, for that matter). At least I still had their Flickr Pool of happy customers flashing their goods to inspire and torture me at the same time. But always scratching my head as to what could have happened. I decided to see if they had sorted all their matters out and come back, and lo and behold! I found that they now have a Big Cartel Shop with a few of their classic, bestseller necklaces available.

I was excited, but at the same time cautious, because of the reports I'd read that Ms. Vanda, although very apologetic, had never made good on orders filled in through her now-defunct website. I hope she has been able to sort out all her matters, and can come back refreshed and full of new Paraphernalia designs, the line was always so cool and full of inspiration.

A Garden of My Own.

2011-10-23T17:32:00.002-04:00

My dear friend Francis (also our seamstress and Befriended handbag designer) and her beautiful daughter and boyfriend decided to do one of the things I've always had on my bucket list: an interior garden at their home in San Juan. She posted some photos and I instantly fell in love with all the little buds, the little picket fence, and the idyllic whimsy of having a garden in your backyard. Of course, Francis shot me down a couple of inches when she told me the story of how hard it had been to find the earth underneath all the cement in her backyard, how much her boyfriend toiled to get it all out and finally be able to find "the good earth" as she calls it, to organize the crops, separate the plant areas and then put the seeds in. I really admire them for creating urban agriculture, on an island like ours you'd think this was the norm. I hope many gather as much inspiration as I have and start their own gardens, it's hard work but the benefits of eating what you grow yourself as so good for your body and the environment.
xoxo,
Ouna's Closet

Let's all be Sirens.

2011-10-23T17:25:00.001-04:00

Ouna's Closet is very hot. Hot fashion, Hot vintage, Hot temperatures! The seasons here have been going crazy this year, with this summer all rainy and cold, and this fall being hot, sticky and very humid. At our shop we decided to play around with one of the biggest trends of this year, the fishtail skirt. We have in our shop a great line of remade vintage clothing called Fabrica R3: Rags Recycled Responsibly. We use vintage fashions and remake them into modern designs by altering or reusing the fabric. This fishtail skirt design (called a Siren skirt) came pretty easily to us, after some careful research (and more than a couple of attempts) we saw that the skirts were fun, flirty, fresh, and perfect for our chaotic weather because your legs were uncovered just enough at the front, but the long tail gives tons of coverage in the back (super necessary for us curvy babes). We loved how they came out, and used skirts as well as dresses to produce the designs. They were a huge hit! We can't wait to make more!

this is one of the dresses we made. it came out so beautiful! Our clients loved the versatility of the design (for day, evening, dates, parties, etc) and the fact that this type of skirt is flattering to every body type (win!)

it's a really easy skirt to style also. Here we have three different looks that you can achieve: with platform boots or flat sandals; a simple white tank, a billowy blouse, or even a crisp white blouse tied at your waist work well. It's all in experimenting with what you have in your own wardrobe, we are sure you will find many uses for it!

xoxo,

Ouna's Closet

Candybox @ Ouna's Closet

2011-09-13T12:47:00.015-04:00

We're head over heels for Candybox @ Ouna's Closet!

(Stop by and take a look at the lovely fascinator-inspired line of headpieces!)

Fascinator Fascination?

From the French Revolution, to flappers of the 1920's, our well-loved pin-up girls, and the recent spotlight brought on by the royal wedding- fascinators have been invented & reinvented to suit evolving tastes.

XOXO,

Kristen Stewart in W.

2011-08-12T16:44:00.003-04:00

I am LOVING this spread. The awesome team over at W magazine actually made Kristen Stewart over to a "Valley of the Dolls" muse. Over at Ouna's Closet I am feeling this decadent, end of an era vibe, and the clothes I'm bringing in are a reflection of that: Sheers, vaporous materials, lace, crochet, harkening to the end but with all the fabulousness of it, kinda like Blanche DuBois but without all the crazy.

Sunday Inspirations.

2011-08-07T14:57:00.004-04:00

Love: Orla Kiely.

2011-08-07T14:39:00.005-04:00

I have been struck by a weekend obsession with Orla Kiely's whole mood and photographs for their past SS campaign. Love the colors, the lighting, and the nostalgia that they have so artfully evoked.

sadly their lookbook has the audio disabled, the song is Rooney's "Can't get enough"

Living on a tropical island has all the benefits of summer year-round. We don't have to bundle up too much for winter (a nice sweater will do) and our wardrobes can be so uncomplicated, bright and crisp. When all the shops here change their moods to the grays and blacks of colder climate winters it makes me sad, because I know I won't be able to update my wardrobe much until the "official coming of spring" at their shops.

Happily, in Ouna's Closet, it's spring/summer all year round, because I specifically have been curating the space more and more to have cottons and light, island-climate fabrics and prints. We do have a splash of neutrals and black, but just enough to mix with all the rest of the pretty colors.

Ouna's Closet for WWAM Mag

2011-07-11T14:04:00.008-04:00

We were featured in our friend Annie Jo's new blog called WWAM Mag (you need to go see it, click HERE). She did this amazing photo shoot called BEAUTIFUL and used a lot of our pretty vintage pieces.
Enjoy!
by the way, we have been posting regular inspiration over on Tumblr. Get on over there and let's tumble together!!!

Blouse, Ouna's Closet

Boots, Ouna's Closet

Denim Bolero Jacket, Ouna's Closet

Blouse & Skirt, Ouna's Closet

Boots, Ouna's Closet

Top, Fábrica R3 for Ouna's Closet

Monday Himspirations.

2011-05-16T15:02:00.002-04:00

I'm feeling all about him, him and him this week.

Absolute Hunk.

2011-05-12T14:35:00.000-04:00

here's some vintage Brad Pitt to brighten up your thursday.
Image from Tumblr.

Fashion Lane Summer Looks.

2011-05-12T14:32:00.000-04:00

I came across an amazing blog called Fashion Lane the other day, and they had made one of the loveliest summer shoots I've ever seen. Enjoy, and visit Alexandra's spot for more summer inspiration and amazing photos.

Holy Baloney Batman It's Wednesday!

2011-05-11T15:56:00.001-04:00

Tick Paint Booties by Jeffrey Campbell.

Monday Limbspirations: Agathe.

2011-05-09T16:48:00.005-04:00

Agathe is one of my top inspirations for blogging, fashion and just plain living. I was so sad when she took down her Stylebytes blog. She was the first blogger to post full outfit photos with details. Now somebody else uses the spot to post small bits of fashion news, but never like her. I managed to save some of the lovely photos she took for her blog before losing the domain addy. I hope she's out there, living a good life.

One of my good friends sent me this today.

2011-05-02T22:46:00.003-04:00

it's funny how things happen always for a reason. I have so many good things happening, so many awesomeness I want to share with you all. I am about to share some amazing news with you this week, stay tuned. My store is doing fantastic, my wedding is almost together, I am truly blessed with a fabulous fiancee, family, and friends. I cannot really ask for anything more at all.

Monday Inspiration : Nicole Richie.

2011-05-02T22:43:00.003-04:00

I had wanted to post these for a couple of days now. Nicole Richie is, like I've said before, one of the best turnaround stories in Hollywood. Two beautiful kids, married, and has had wonderful success with Winter Kate and House of Harlow 1960. I admire her for her courage, style, grace and tenacity in a town where few survive and most are gobbled up.

New! Clothing Alterations & Inventions at Ouna's Closet

2011-04-19T17:32:00.004-04:00

Check out our Price List, and come by our shop! Miss Francis is fixin' up your stuff Fridays from 11-7 and Saturdays 11-4. You can bring anything, new, vintage, from our shop or from anywhere!

Sweet n' Salty Skinny Dip.

2011-04-11T04:23:00.006-04:00

this past weekend I went to the beach with my girls Gabriela & Fabianna and did a Spring Break shoot, at night. It was one of the most fun experiences ever. The night was windy and the water was cold, but the girls jumped right in the water, posed upon posed, and let me do all manner of ridiculous things to their hair. I loved it. I found this skinny dip sequence a bit racy for the FB page, so enjoy it here :D

Our Vintage at the Premiere of "America"!!!!!!!!!!

2011-03-10T17:22:00.004-05:00

Our good friend and Ouna's Closet lover Erika Peña went last wednesday to the "America" premiere here in San Juan, and wore an amazing 50's vintage dress and 60's raised-dot handbag from our shop. She looked amazing!!!!

To see more of our Ouna's Closet Lovers, follow THIS LINK.

Happy Birthday to Us!!!!

2011-03-09T11:51:00.007-05:00

Cristy, my awesome friend, sent me this awesome birthday card :D
Yay! Today it's 2 years since we started on this awesome adventure with you all. There has been tons of laughter, tears and awesome vintage and contemporary pieces that have walked through our doors into the world, into your closets, into your lives. I am constantly reminded on this journey of the special role Ouna's Closet has played since its' beginning in bringing vintage back to Puerto Rico and making a fashionable, real choice for everyone. More than just playing dress up, or being a costume choice for Halloween, Vintage is a fashionable choice that sets you apart from the trend-seekers, and does so good to our planet as an eco-supportive choice to buying fast fashion that doesn't last and sacrifices so much of our already limited resources. I am so grateful for all the support I have received these past two years from my beautiful friends and clients from Puerto Rico and all over the world. I started this concept as an outlet for all my creativity, as an extension of who I was, and two years later, I feel it has become more than an extension a responsability to you all to keep bringing you the best pieces, the best vintage, and the best local artists to create your own style. I am so grateful for all the love, the great relationships I have formed on the way, and all the fabulous people of all ages, sizes and walks of life I have been given the blessing to dress, style and meet. There are so many stories in this space already, so much love. There are so many good things coming for the rest of the year, I can't wait to share them with you all.
There's tons more of Ouna's Closet to be had! Yay!!!

Spring Fling!

2011-03-02T13:41:00.003-05:00

I am so excited about this spring collection. It is the BIGGEST collection I have ever built for the shop. Arriving this Saturday, March 5th, I am so excited getting everything ready and perfect for all of you.

There are so many sheers, lace, skirts, shorts, jeans, long 70's style pants, mexican inspired tops and dresses, flimsy fabrics, cottons, it's just perfection.

Last sunday I went to VSJ with a couple of my beautiful girls to shoot a lookbook for spring. I took 1 box of clothes, 4 pairs of perfect Jeffrey Campbells, an ecobag full of belts and jewelry, my own camera and tons of inspiration. This is what came of it all.

Mind you, this is just a smidgeon of all the mad crazy beautiful stuff coming in on saturday. I am also having a first look fashion show on friday from 7-9pm at my friend Erika Peña's shop.
Enjoy the photos!!!

Fábrica R3: Rags Recycled Responsibly.

2011-02-19T16:47:00.004-05:00

Since I started Ouna's, I had wanted to have a fusion line of reworked vintage pieces available. Pieces that would be amazingly wearable, affordable, and with that extra kick that reconstructing a favorite piece has. I love fashion that uses available materials in an eco-conscious, earth-friendly way.

Well, here it is!!! Introducing Fábrica R3: Rags Recycled Responsibly.

Puerto Rico's first fusion line of reworked vintage pieces at insanely affordable prices. The first bite consists of 6 pieces, and we expect to add more every week. Come by and see it for yourself!

Word of the Day: Yes.

2011-02-05T03:07:00.001-05:00

"It's better not knowing anything."

2011-02-04T01:19:00.007-05:00

I was very saddened to learn earlier tonight of the death of actress Maria Schneider, the star of "Last Tango in Paris" "The Passenger" and dozens of european movies. She was 54. For better and for worse, her role as Jeanne in "Last Tango in Paris" at the age of 19 with an aging Marlon Brando (he was a gorgeous 58 year old) skyrocketed her to fame, fortune, and a drastic falling from celebrity heaven that included drug abuse, attempted suicide, and a couple of overdoses that almost claimed her life. Through interviews of her I have seen through the decades after her first film, she never quite grasped the overwhelming impact she had on modern cinema. Her characterization of Jeanne is one of the most heartfelt, honest and from the soul performances I have ever seen. And she brought out in Brando one of his best performances of his career, perhaps because it also came from his soul. Last Tango in Paris is one of those movies that change your viewpoint on traditional human relationships and love forever. It also has one of the most amazing musical scores ever, thanks to Gato Barbieri's amazing title song. She was 58. Goodnight, Ms. Schneider.

Spring Collections.

2011-02-02T10:31:00.005-05:00

With all the new spring collections coming out, I thought I'd take a look around and see what other designers are doing. Much to my surprise, we are all on the same vein of flutter, 60's & 70's inspired fashion, with a pale color palette and great attention to detail. These are three of my top favorites, I love how both styled their pieces. The great thing about both of these collections is, that they also serve as great lookbooks for styling vintage, since the styles that they have are similar to vintage styles available at Ouna's Closet. Enjoy!
(images taken from Sally Jane Vintage's beautiful blog)

Twenty Seven Names.

Dear Creatures.

Orla Kiely.

Follow-Up: "in the future, everybody will be famous for 15 minutes".

2011-02-02T01:22:00.003-05:00

Andy Warhol is credited with being the original inventor of reality tv. back when the media of television was still a toddler, Andy recognized in television the insane ability it has to broadcast, entice, sell, and promote ideas, people, celebrity, and products to a completely captive audience. back when Mtv was cool, Andy Warhol designed a program that aired called "Andy Warhol's 15 minutes". making a direct mockery of his own catchquote that fame was only 15 minutes long, the show proposed to be "a half hour of nightlife, new bands, and hip people saying weird things". the interviews followed a stream of consciousness type of banter, with Andy most times just leaving the camera on for hours on end on his subjects to capture authenticity of character and personality. I find particularly interesting that the subjects he chose for interviewing or featuring were famous and budding artists, most were people who fame would come many years later after appearing on his show, like Courtney Love. He was not partial to anybody, he would construct his shows with the things and people he found interesting, hip, and different at the moment. I love that type of creative freedom, not tied to any network demands or advertising needs. I was too young when this show was on Mtv, but now seeing it online has made me want to see if I can find it on dvd to own.

I find this man fascinating.

2011-02-02T00:53:00.002-05:00

Monday Inspirations.

2011-01-31T13:11:00.003-05:00

It's the end of January 2011. So much has happened already! Meetings every week, setting up nice collaborations, receiving new creations from our Colectivo, planning the spring collection (which is perfectly to die for), changes both good and for the better. I'm happy with how this year is setting up. I hope you feel as inspired as I do marching into February. Have you started on those resolutions yet? What are you planning for yourself this year? There's so much time, yet it goes by so fast. I'm glad we walk down this road together.

Spring Collection Inspirations.

2011-01-28T00:08:00.003-05:00

I have been planning better this coming spring collection. Gathering inspiration here and there, making a mental inspiration board of sorts, squirreling away pieces that I think will be perfect this season and making a more cohesive grouping, rather than just bringing in random pieces that I like. The winter collection was all flash, draping, pizzazz and sequins. Very fabulous. For this collection I'm channeling the 70's ethereal, crochet, soft and woodsy colors, lace and cutouts. Like a chic sprite that goes on roadtrips every other day.

Nail Biting and Other Things...

2011-01-26T01:36:00.002-05:00

photo credit via SMVBlog
There are soooo many things cooking right now at our shop. Collaborations, possibilities, new adventures, trips, etcetcetc.........and in my personal life, so many things are also cooking and coming together (moving.....again *sigh*, getting married, separating my work life from my lifelife, planning, etcetcetc). 2011 is gearing up to become one of the most important years of my life, if such a thing is possible, because I thought that 2 years ago was pretty important. nah, this one is. and with so many activity, movement, and planning, comes increased nervousness, jitters, and butterflies. I have the best hopes that everything will work out the way I am envisioning, for myself and for LeStore. Wish me success! and thanks for supporting me.
xoxo
Angela

When did your love for vintage or want to open a vintage store begin and what advice could you give to others that want to possibly do the same in the future?

2011-01-24T19:18:00.001-05:00

Hi! well, I always loved vintage things, I just didn't know it at the time. when I was a little girl I loved going through my great-grandmother's drawers at her house in santurce (the house still exists today) and wear her bracelets and rings. When I was in high school I would steal some of my older sister's 80's castoffs and rock them at parties. when I got to college I realized that all this love was called "vintage love" and started to read up on it and learn all I could about eras, designers, and styles. I always knew I wanted to have my own shop, and that I wanted it to have unique things and my own designs, so that came naturally to me.
As for advice, I always tell everyone that has a dream, follow it! Follow it, develop it, make it your own. Dreams are sometimes shared, it's in the personal stamp only you can give it that makes them unique. I planned Ouna's Closet for 6 years, and it only took me 2 of those to actually make it a reality. The rest of the time I studied, finished my college degree, searched, faced my own fears, wrote a business plan and made small micromovements towards making it real. I'm not saying you should do exactly the same thing I did, always do what makes you most happy, and if it turns into your job, what more happiness could you hope for than that? :D Angela

Ask me anything

Monday Pinkspirations.

2011-01-24T17:03:00.005-05:00

Have a beautiful week.

2011-01-24T16:23:00.001-05:00

175th Post!

2011-01-23T18:08:00.002-05:00

Waaaaaayyyy back when I started this blog, I originally wanted it to be about stuff that I liked, outfit posts, and stuff I wanted to buy but didn't have any money for. I was working a part-time job, finishing my studies in marketing at college, and making jewelry in my apartment which I sold at bazaars and some boutiques. I was happy and nurturing my dreams of having my own shop, of being my own boss and having an outlet for all the ideas and inspirations that came my way daily.

Well, fast forward 5 years, and I am in a place right now that makes me happy. Great job, great friends, great fiancée, and a life still full of possibilities. I have seen people around me change, others stay exactly the same (for better or for worse). I've seen the truth come out eventually and lived through some tough times. I've moved twice since I started the blog, and am looking at moving again this year. I'm also developing some awesome relationships (in and out of work). I have had the heartbreak and the triumph, dissappointment and the fantasticness. I am in a good place.

I didn't expect to turn this blog into one about my shop and the inspirations that drive me, yet it came out so naturally. I now see that this blog has become my personal "secret" ;) place where I can put all my hopes, aspirations and micromovements towards good things that I want to make happen. Oh, and stuff that obsessess me to no end, like pretty photos, pretty clothes and pretty vintage.

One thing I proposed to myself at the start of this year is to blog more. So far it's coming along nicely. And as we are on the topic of new year's proposals (because resolutions are made to be broken) here's my personal list of what I propose to accomplish this year:
-lose all the weight I plan to. (28 of 65lbs down)
-make my dream wedding a reality
-get better organized
-take more photos of my family and friends
-sleep more
-take more daytrips and getaways
-develop all the plans I have for the store this year
-grow my hair long

Well, I hope you all have a nice week and remember to always follow your dreams.

Javier Scalley & Lio Maldonado for Ouna's Closet.

2011-01-22T11:01:00.002-05:00

Javier Scalley is one of my top fave guys of all time. His eye for fashion and making things beautiful is amazing. And Lio is an amazing hair and makeup artist. This shoot was done last august for their porfolios in Old San Juan using Ouna's Closet vintage clothing and jewelry. The model is Grentha. Enjoy.

Félix de Portu for Ouna's Closet.

2011-01-22T10:58:00.003-05:00

I love this guy's photography. Just beautiful. This past december I had the chance to collaborate with him on a shoot he did at Ouna's and parts of the mall where the store is located. Izamar, Natalia & Ariana were the models, gorgeous girls of course.
Enjoy.

Wednesday Inspirations.

2011-01-19T13:33:00.003-05:00

What currently inspires you?

2011-01-13T17:00:00.001-05:00

What currently inspires you?

Answer here

what's on your playlist right now?

2011-01-13T16:59:00.001-05:00

what's on your playlist right now?

Answer here

what's your ultimate dream trip?

2011-01-13T16:57:00.001-05:00

what's your ultimate dream trip?

Answer here

KodaChrome.

2011-01-03T16:42:00.003-05:00

I read today that this film is no more, and that the LAST PLACE ON EARTH that you could get it developed (in Arkansas, which is quite fitting) will not be processing it anymore, never again. Finis to an era.

Here's some photos that I got from a related slideshow taken with KodaChrome. It's a darn shame too. I love the crispness of the images, they feel like you're right there.

On this New Year's Eve, I have to give thanks....

2010-12-31T15:36:00.004-05:00

....for all the incredible blessings that this year has given us at our little store. Like the little engine that could, we have chugg-chugg-chugged our way up on this island to bring vintage back to the front of the pack, this time to stay forever on our island as a fashionable, stylish choice for everyone. We believe that anyone, ANYONE can wear vintage, it's not just for this group or that, or for the fashionistas or the glamanistas. All of you are glamanistas in our eyes, all of you are beautiful. That's why vintage is for everyone, forever.

Starting out on this road, not even my wildest dreams could have prepared me for all the fantastic, unique, lovely people I have met this year at Ouna's Closet. From the flamboyant gals who need no help in choosing the perfect piece to make them stand out, to the shy blossoming stylistas who with a little nudge in the right direction are opened to a whole new world of style. I have been blessed to dress from 5 year old to 80 year olds. Moms and their daughters, groups of friends, whole generations of women. I have also been so fortunate to dress some guys, my fantastic guys who have mostly also become my friends. I am so happy that this new year will bring more opportunity to dress you my men, for we are expanding our male clothing section, among other plans :D

This little spot with huge heart, we've shown everyone in Puerto Rico that vintage can be accessible, affordable, and most of all, totally wearable. There is so much more that we plan to do, to keep this movement growing and make it be as normal a choice for you as scrambled eggs and toast in the morning.

I also want to take this chance to thank from the bottom of my bottomless loving heart all the people who have taken the time and effort to use our pieces for their fashion shoots, shows, presentations and TV Spots. My stylists, photographers, actors, artists, musicians and all other artistic friends who more than anything, we love and adore. Thank you for all the fantastic beauty we have made together. We love you all infinitely.

Thank you so much for loving us. Thank you so much for trusting your style to us. Thank you so much for letting us dress you, and most of all, thank you so much for believing in us as we believe in you.
2011 is going to be an amazing year for Ouna's Closet. I cannot WAIT for it to start so we can unveil all the fantasticness we have behind our curtain.

Have a fantastic New Year and may all the blessings this universe has to offer shower themselves on you all.
From the bottom of my loving bottomless heart,
Angela and the Ouna Girls

Monday Inspirations.

2010-12-13T12:24:00.002-05:00

Know Your Vintage!

2010-12-07T14:26:00.003-05:00

Chictopia has these amazing guides for identifying Vintage. They have posted from the 1920's, 1930's, 1940's and 1950's. Click on each date to go to the guide and read all about it. I like that they're short, concise and easy to read. A must for any vintage lover to know the basics about the styles and to find out what decade they love and fits them the best.

Enjoy!

Monday Inspirations.

2010-12-06T14:54:00.005-05:00

My favorite color is Rhett.

2010-11-30T01:09:00.006-05:00

I used to be red-obsessed. I dyed my hair red, bright ruby red, when I was in college. it was a total departure from my dark-brown locks, an escape from myself. I liked it alot, though the upkeep of it was hell (how fitting). when my niece Elena started to learn her colors, she would put an H in between red, and pronounce the D like two t's. I found it hilarious that when I asked her what her favorite color was, she would always say "Rhett Titi". Her favorite color is pink now, which is fine with me, that's my favorite color too.

In honor of Princess Elena, some Rhett for you, in all imaginings of it.

Monday Inspirations.

2010-11-29T13:59:00.006-05:00

Sunday Inspirations.

2010-11-21T16:15:00.005-05:00

Ladies, start hoarding your grunge fashions...

2010-11-21T15:18:00.006-05:00

because these babies are having another moment. this new millenium has been one filled with the acclaimed "return of....." in fashion, and seeing that we are exiting an 80's comeback that came with all the force of a mack truck at our faces (shoulderpads! The HORROR!) it now is all pointing at the 90's to become the next new comeback kid for all die-hard fashionistas. The Flannel! The Grunge! The Heroin Chic! The Minimalism! The Rapper's Delight!

I must admit, the 90's are still waaaaaaaayyyyy too close to me to consider them worth revisiting..........

Beautiful.

2010-11-17T00:59:00.002-05:00

The Third & The Seventh from Alex Roman on Vimeo.

If you don't figure it out by yourself, this video is completely computer-generated. amazing.

Antonio López.

2010-11-14T19:09:00.002-05:00

Antonio López was a Puertorrican. yep. Back in the 60's and 70's he was a fashion illustrator whose work was published in Vogue and The New York Times. He worked with Karl Lagerfeld and discovered Jerry Hall, Tina Chow and Grace Jones. His most famous photograph is the one at the beginning of this post of Jerry and he posing on a table. Amazing. He died in 1987 of complications from AIDS in LA. I think he was amazing.

Sunday Inspirations.

2010-11-14T18:57:00.004-05:00

Stephen Geoffreys.

2010-10-30T18:04:00.000-04:00

It's Halloween! I thought it quite fitting to celebrate the day by posting some awesome shots of one of horror's icons, Stephen Geoffreys. Star of such iconic films as Fright Night and 976-EVIL, Stephen is most known for that famous line "You're so cool, Brewster!". Like so many talented stars of the decade, Stephen found it quite hard to break out of the horror genre that made him a star, and did not find a lot of film roles after 1989. He is enjoying more roles now, given that horror has been making a comeback in the last few years, and has been doing quite well in the convention circuit as well. I hope he keeps getting recognized for his work and more roles go his way, he's very talented.

If you want to find out more about Stephen, click here and here.

Enjoy your Halloween loves!

Nothing's gonna change my world.........

2010-10-03T12:22:00.005-04:00

Yep, it's official. I am getting married. after 9 years of 'courtin' we are getting married on saturday, june 4, of next year. I am happy, but kinda freakin' out at the same time. there's so much planning involved! at least the place where we're celebrating the wedding is locked down. and I have a maid of honor and a best man for me jejejeje. but there's invitations, guest lists, food choices, cake choices, dress choices, veil, crown, bridesmaids, flowers, decorations, minister or no minister, ceremony, etcetcetc!
All I know is that none of it is going to change me, it's going to be a wonderful experience (and somewhat stressful, who's isn't?)

Mama Ang is getting married!!!!!

Sunday Inspirations.

2010-10-03T12:00:00.006-04:00

Swap-a-torio!!!

2010-09-14T15:47:00.004-04:00

Francis and I had been talking for a couple of months about creating an event where budget-conscious fashionistas like us could meet, share stuff in their closets that didn't fit into their styles anymore and have a chance to swap said stuff for other fashionista's things, in a great space with cool music. Well, after much planning here it is, said event is our first ever Swap-a-torio this upcoming saturday september 25th. It's going to be in Acqua Restaurant in Old San Juan in la calle San José from 6 to 11pm. The restaurant´s bar and kitchen are going to be open, and you can get a fantastic glass of homemade sangría and munch on special appetizer plates they're gonna whip up for us for great prices :D

This first event is for WOMEN ONLY, all sizes and ages are invited to come and share their treasures and maybe find that new fantastic piece you'll be wearing everyday for the rest of the year!

Here are our Swap-a-torio rules:

Rules (super important, READ CAREFULLY):

*Bring your Eco-bags (prizes for those that bring your own) FULL of clothing, handbags and belts that are in good to excellent condition from your closet. Items must be clean and without rips or stains. New, vintage, labels, no labels, it doesn't matter. We'll check out everything you have and give you a ticket for the same number of pieces that you brought in to "shop" at the swap. There's no limit to how much you can bring, but check your stuff well because we will not put out stuff that's stained, torn or in bad condition.
*We'll be accepting your stuff in the back of Acqua from 6 to 8:30 pm and dividing it by category, so Acqua will have yummy appetizers and fresh sangría at the bar while you mingle, as well as cool tunes.
*At 9pm we'll open the area so you can come in, shop, peruse, try on, take pictures and choose from all the treasures other fashionistas like yourself have brought in. When you're done, you "pay" at the exit with your ticket and leave happy and home-free with your bags full of fantastic things that cost you next to NOTHING!
*Miss Francis will be available at the event with her alteration station ready to fix up anything that doesn't fit or you want to look different. Her prices are fantastically excellent and can't be beat!
*There will be additional "shop tickets" for sale if you don't have enough by category (clothing, bags and belts) for 75c each.
*Bring your friends, mom, grandmas, aunts, nieces, cousins, mother-in-law, frenemies and whomever else you wish. This first one is for LADIES ONLY! We want to make these events a permanent fixture in your life, so tell everyone you know to come and have a smashing time!

Fall 2010 Trends: Completely Vintage!

2010-09-11T23:28:00.004-04:00

I was perusing Fashionising, my official spot for the season trends, all the shows and everything fashion. If you want to know what is going to be in for next season, from trends, to colors, patterns, accessories, shoes, you name it they have it. A great site.

Anyway, I was checking out this season's trends for Fall, and I was so happy to see that all the fall fashions are capturing some very clear vintage trends.

For example, 70's fashion is going to be HUGE all through this year and leading up to SS of 2011. But instead of the grandiose boho trend that is slowly fading, this re-inventing of the 70's is more glamorous, more upscale and definitely more bold. Think chunky platforms, wide legged pants (flares are back, yay!), thigh-high boots, hot pants in leather or dressier fabrics, long-legged jumpsuits, beautiful secretary blouses (those that have pleating, bows, and ruffles) in jewel tones, satchel bags, statement belts, long beaded necklaces, stacks of bangles, bold chunky rings, giant sunglasses and vaporous long dresses in silky fabrics that hug your skin. The color palette is definitely more warm and tonal. Think of Studio 54 when it was in its' heyday, when Halston, Bianca Jagger, Andy Warhol and Diana Ross would be photographed in true 70's glamour.

Other trends to look out for this season are a slimmer reinvention of 50's and 60's silhouettes (thanks to Mad Men)but this trend is especially going to pick up steam for SS 2011; military inspiration in colors and embellishments (olive green and brown, but not together and DEFINITELY not in camo print, please); lingerie and lace as basic pieces for layering, rather than under other tops it has BECOME the top (think a sweet vintage camisole peeking out from under a cardigan with a pencil skirt or a fantastic lace slip worn with tights and heels); and body-con dresses (like those worn by Tina Turner in the early 80's) with cutouts in the sleeves or sides.

I love all these! And of course you can find pieces like these at our store, Ouna's Closet ;)

Our Monthly Bazaar/Alterations Event!!! Sunday Sept. 19th!!!

2010-09-09T02:51:00.003-04:00

Thursday Inspirations.

2010-09-09T02:39:00.003-04:00

Ouna's Closet. So much more than a vintage store in Puerto Rico.

2010-09-09T01:51:00.008-04:00

Hello My Loves!

I had wanted to show off and talk about our store since we opened here on the blog. About a million different things running through my head had made me forget to talk about exactly what goes on in our little vintage store in Puerto Rico :D We're located in Galería Suchville, one of the nicest shopping places in Guaynabo.

Chock-full of little independent shops and restaurants, it has for every budget and taste. There's a lovely sushi restaurant called Akai, a great winery called Cien Vinos, and soon to be a fantastic mexican Cantina called La Doña (yumyumyum). We have for kids, for ladies, and even a sports shop. Even Erika Peña is going to open her first store here on the 18th (so excited!!!).

Ouna's Closet definitely stands away from the crowd of shops with its' individuality and selection of great independent designers from "el patio", as well as an excellently curated selection of vintage clothing, handbags and accessories.
It's a direct reflection of who I am, a lover of all things old and new, loving to mix stuff up to create a style rather than falling into trends. Because style is what we´re about, we constantly bring in fantastic pieces that complete your outfit and make you shine.

Every day is an adventure for me, as I always strive to show every single person that walks into my shop how to mix vintage and new and create a story all your own. I always tell my friends, it's so easy to make vintage your own. One piece is all it takes, be it a beautiful top, a funky necklace, an armful of bangles or a fantastic handbag to make you stand out from the crowd. In a world where the massification of fashion has lead us to cheaply made clothing and accessories that do not last, seeking out vintage serves a double purpose of honoring excellent craftsmanship and durability, as well as preserving our environment by recycling excellent goods that would otherwise end up in a landfill. And in today's current global situation, it's one of the best ways to "green" your impact on your environment, one fashionable outfit at a time.

Here at Ouna's we have an excellent selection of clothing from the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's and a little bit of the 90's to keep things interesting :) as well as jewelry, handbags, hats, sunglasses, belts, scarves, and housewares from those eras. What makes us different from every other vintage store that has ever existed in Puerto Rico is that everything we sell is in excellent to near-excellent condition, and our vintage clothing is professionally cleaned and altered (be it a cuter sleeve, a modern hemline, or an adjustment to fit) so you can wear it the same day! Proof positive of this is our faithful friends and growing fans who visit us everyday (thanks for all your love!). But Ouna's Closet is so much more than vintage. It's a journey into discovering what your style is, a trip down memory lane for many, an opening of your heart to a new world that is all your own. I love it, every single day.

I also strive to bring the best of independent design to a wider audience with my "Colectivo" of wonderful indie designers, all of whom are from my patio, Puerto Rico. Full of talent, inspiration, and gusto, these lovely ladies and gents that I have come to know are a constant reminder to us all that art and creativity are alive here on our little island, and that we must support artistic expression in fashion especially, and give it a chance to shine in a bigger ballpark (although my space is only 266 feet long!) I have come to know some amazing designers and artists in Ouna's Closet, and I am so happy with the tight group we have right now that sell their wares at our shop. I am also constantly on the lookout for new talent to join, so who knows, it might be you I can be talking about! :D

Well, I hope this has inspired you to walk down that stylish road with us when you come to visit. I promise you won't be dissappointed, rather, you'll walk out a fashionable, inspiring style maven. Dare to turn heads, dare to stand out. At Ouna's Closet we will show you the reflection of your beautiful, stylish self that we have seen all along. We love you!

love and cupcakes,
Angela

Saturday Inspirations Special: Lovely Guys n' Gals.

2010-08-28T15:57:00.010-04:00

I love it when we get photos of our friends wearing their Ouna's Closet finds out and about. The way they style our pieces sometimes is totally opposite of what we were thinking for them at the time, and it totally works!!! It inspires me so much to see their different points of view when it comes to personal style.

Jaileen, shot with one of our skirts by Paola (fantastic photography, go check it out!)
Ninna, on the left, in France. OMG.

Neysha :D

Natalia, on the right, at a wedding a couple of months ago.

Laura Om, who daily inspires us with her entrepreneurship and inner spirit. Beautiful.

Yeidy. Nuff said :D

Yamel rockin' out her 50's compact.

Saxon (she got her prom dress at Ouna's Closet!!!)

Karla (her top is from one of the designers we featured last year, Solferino)

Jesus from one of the indie bands on the island called Tropiezo, in Costa Rica. Fantastic pants!!!

Javier is always about the details. Here he rocks his 80's denim bag and chunky pendant necklace from Ouna's.

Indira :D

Gabby loved this dress so much she wore it to a Christmas party the same day she bought it!

Gabriela giving us a back view of her 70's top.

Eli Joe from Da'Zoo rockin'out a vintage ESPRIT top for her music video TU!! You can see the video here

Cristy, her 80's green shorts match the sunny day!

Casandra, looking beautiful.

Belisa, on the left, wearing a beautiful 80's purple dress for her brother's graduation.

Saturday Inspirations.

2010-08-21T14:47:00.003-04:00

We have a YouTube channel!!!

2010-08-21T14:18:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to unveil something I had been working on for awhile: Ouna's Closet has a YouTube channel!!!

I had been thinking of making videos of the store for some time, you know, to give people sneak peeks into what goes on behind the scenes for our fashion shoots and just the daily fun that we have dressing you up at the store. And now we have it up and running for you!!! There's two videos up that we made, plus a couple of others from our friends that shot some of our clothing and accessories.

I am hoping to be able to post weekly videos of different things, from fashion tips and the like to more behind the scenes. Check it out!

Our YouTube Channel

We got a great article!!!

2010-08-19T13:13:00.004-04:00

Mi Puerto Rico Verde, a local website dedicated to all things eco-conscious, eco-friendly and green in Puerto Rico was gracious enough to do an article on our beautiful vintage store to promote our eco-conscious aesthetic of renewing the past to save beautiful pieces from landfills and help curb the overflow of cheaply made mass fashion available today. Here's the article text in spanish, for the full one, go here

Ropa vintage en Puerto Rico al alcance de todos
Added Jun 30, 2010, Under: Moda Y Belleza

Comprar ropa vintage es una tendencia nueva y cada vez más grande en el mundo de la moda. Actrices como Gwyneth Paltrow, Barbra Streisand, Drew Barrymore, Sharon Stone y Nicole Kidman, entre otras, han acudido a la ropa vintage para resaltar su imagen, como ‘statement’ ambiental, e incluso para destacar en la alfombra roja como hace unos años lo hizo la actriz y ganadora de un Oscar, Julia Roberts. La ropa vintage para muchas personas representa la época gloriosa de los 40′s, 50′s, 60′s & 70′s cuando la moda era la epítome de lo ‘chic’ y la elegancia. No tan sólo la nostalgia experimentada en estas piezas son parte de esta moda, sino que para muchos diseñadores que siempre han visto en diseños antiguos la inspiración para sus diseños modernos, la ropa vintage es la mejor herramienta de trabajo. También las personas que la visten tienen la seguridad que que la pieza es única y que nadie más tiene.

Uno de los problemas de la ropa vintage es que es muy difícil de encontrar. En Puerto Rico, al igual que en muchos otros países, la demanda sigue creciendo y son pocos los lugares donde se puede conseguir este tipo de moda.

Sin embargo, en el año 2009, nace en Puerto Rico Ouna’s Closet (mujer sabia en japonés), que ofrece piezas de ropa y accesorios vintage. Las piezas que emplean la beneficiosa estrategia de reuso, son de alta relevancia en la moda actual y muchas de ellas tienen más de 20 años de vida. Para la creadora y dueña de Ouna’s Closet, Angela I. Ortíz, “Puerto Rico, siendo una isla altamente consumerista, no tiene una cultura de reúso impuesta. El reciclaje es visto como algo de latas, botellas y papel nada más.”. Sin embargo Ortíz trata de cambiar ese estigma proveyendole al público ropa vintage ‘ready to wear’ y accesorios que fácilmente pueden formar parte de su guardaropa.

La ropa vintage, lo local y el ambiente

Ciertamente el vintage es una alternativa de moda que minimiza el impacto negativo al ambiente. Ortiz explica que “según estadísticas, alrededor de 1,000 millones de toneladas de ropa & accesorios llegan a los vertederos anualmente tan sólo en Estados Unidos.

El creciente movimiento de la ropa vintage no únicamente toca el tema del reciclaje y reuso de piezas, sino que también trata de reinventar diseños y revivir estilos que quizás alguna vez tuvieron mucha o poca relevancia pero que hoy día pueden adaptarse a la mujer moderna. Angela Ortíz explica que la moda hoy día “es desechable y en cambio, el comprar ropa y accesorios que han tenido historia previa, tiene la ventaja de que no tienes que gastar mucho (dinero) para poseer clásicos de moda. Esta ropa puede formar parte de tu ajuar similar a comprar cualquier pieza nueva”, que probablemente posea menos durabilidad que la ropa vintage.

Aparte, Ouna’s provee espacio para el talento local. Muchos diseñadores de accesorios y de moda locales exponen en esta tienda exclusivamente. ¿Y por qué lo local es bueno para el ambiente? Porque se requieren menos recursos de transporte (combustibles fósiles) para llevar la mercancía (productos) a los consumidores, a la vez que beneficia la economía local.

Acondicionamiento de las piezas

Aunque expertos como Karen Homer aseguran que hoy día la mujer moderna cuenta con medidas más grandes en términos de altura y tamaño de ropa que aquellas mujeres en los años 50′s, es probable que muchas de las piezas vintage tengan que ser ajustadas a contornos modernos.

Para atender este detalle, todas la piezas de Ouna’s Closet son ‘ready to wear’ y son evaluadas y preparadas por sastres para adaptarlas un poco a los estilos de hoy y a los contornos de la mujer moderna. También, para darle utilidad y nueva vida a estas piezas, Ouna’s las acondiciona en lavanderías que utilizan detergentes orgánicos, y con menos exposición a químicos tóxicos. Entrando al tema de los estilos de la ropa vintage, Angela comenta que en Ouna’s “buscamos cortes interesantes, detalles lindos como botones, ligas, plisados, lentejuelas, y telas con prints interesantes, aunque también tenemos piezas básicas, pero todas tienen un detalle distinto a lo que encuentras en la moda actual.” Ouna’s Closet también ofrece servicios de alteración y entalle de piezas.

En términos del bolsillo, la ropa vintage sigue siendo una ventaja, ya que se trata de piezas únicas que se han trabajado con sumo cuidado y que ciertamente poseen materiales duraderos y una vida útil que sobrepasa décadas.

Ouna’s Closet fue reseñado en el New York Times el mes pasado como parte de un artículo titulado “Vintage Around the World”, han vestido bandas de música y artistas como Días de Enero, La PVC, Da’Zoo, a la vez que cuentan con fanáticos y clientes fieles como la empresaria Laura Om y la diseñadora Erika Peña. Además, Ouna’s Closet proveyó el vestuario de esta temporada finalizada en mayo de Teatro Breve.

La tienda Ouna’s Closet está localizada en la Galería Suchville en Guaynabo (787-242-9495). Visite la página de Ouna’s Closet en Facebook. Fotos de Fi Figueroa via Previously Owned.

Saturday Inspirations.

2010-08-07T02:54:00.004-04:00

I must admit that our trip to NYC and MASS was awesomely awesome. So much inspiration and light can be grabbed all at once from traveling. Ouna's Closet looks amazing after her new facelift!!! I'll take pictures of tomorrow's reopening party and post them later :D

Etsy Shop of the Week!!!

2010-07-23T14:52:00.007-04:00

I've decided to feature two shops every week in this feature, a vintage shop and an indie design shop (like what Ouna's is :D) It'll also give more people a chance to participate!
This week's vintage shop is based in NYC's 13bees vintage. The first thing that caught my eye when I entered is how everything is catalogued by era, rather than by size. I personally think that this is a fantastic way of simplifying your search, rather than by size or color. The color palette is muted, tons of blues and whites and darker colors with pops of brights in between.

gorgeous dress from the 1950's.
The photography is equally simple, with a white background for the clothes and the accessories, but every photo is very detailed. They take full advantage of placing all five photos in each listing, which is great. I also love that the thumbnails for each listing feature a full view of the piece and a detail in the same shot. This makes things more interesting and pulls the viewer in, it makes me want to see more.

amazing 1900's lace blouse.
The descriptions are concise, precise, honest, and have all the measurements ready for you to compare to yours. I like this way of listing more than making up convoluted stories about everything that sometimes confuse and honestly, are quite boring. This shop has the look and feel of an elegant, well-curated vintage store, without breaking the bank. Most dresses are in the high-40's range, except for the gorgeous 50's dresses which are considerably more expensive, but considering the fantastic condition they're in, they're actually quite affordable.

beautiful 1970's necklace.
13bees is a great spot on Etsy for well-chosen, spectacular vintage pieces that fit in perfectly with our modern times. Visit them today!

When I was little girl in elementary school, every day after school was out my friends and I would run to a little van that would park in front of the school to sell a huge assortment of candies and sweets to us. It was run by a little old lady who kept the 5c gum in glass jars. I loved spending 85c on tons of caramels, lollipops and gummies to pass the time while waiting for my mom to pick me up. It was a sweet time indeed.
This week's indie shop is sweet as a button, quite literally. I wouldn't usually consider to buy food online, there's something about not being able to gauge the quality or freshness of the products completely that turns me off. Well, this shop is definitely an exception to my rule. Vintage Confections is a candy, caramels and marshmallows shop, and it instantly caught my eye when I stumbled upon it (which happens alot on etsy, their search engine is not too great to find the quality stores in between all the junky ones unless they're featured on the front page or on a gallery or article).

Their listing photos remind me of all those vintage malt shop photos I love (a lot of which I keep in my inspiration folder!) and make me imagine that such places still exist, which brings a smile to my face. Their specialty is hard candies and lollipops in traditional round and funky shapes like lobsters, cowboy boots, a variety of funky hands, skulls, letters, etc. I think they can practically make any shape you throw at them given the variety they already have! Likewise they have a huge assortment of flavors for the candies, which you can combine in some cases, as well as colors for your candies. I love this shop for its endearing nostalgia, and great selection of candy. Visit them today!

On a sidenote, we're leaving for NYC and Boston tonight!!! We'll be visiting family and shopping for the store. Can't wait! I take you all with me, and will post daily photos on the facebook page for Ouna's Closet of my finds and adventures. Yay!!