These under-40 influencers are making their mark. Meet Malena Martinez, the tastemaker.
Malena Martinez, Age 39
Owner, Malena’s Vintage Boutique
Take a spin through town and you’ll see plenty of boutiques. Yet, one that has stood out over the years (or sparkled,depending upon its window display) is Malena’s Vintage Boutique, the retro resale clothing and accessories shop owned and operated by Malena Martinez at the corner of Gay and North Church Street.
Martinez, a West Chester native, opened Malena’s 16 years ago after deciding to start her vintage venture back home instead of in New York City, her home at the time. A lover of retro and antiques from a young age, Martinez studied clothing design in college and worked in vintage shops prior to opening her own.Blending her aptitude for e-commerce with a small business knack, Martinez created a thriving establishment in a niche fashion retail market.
At the boutique, customers can find stunning clothing, jewelry, and accessories from the 1910s to the 1970s, while her online inventory includes specialty pieces and clothing that predate the turn of the century.
Martinez credits commitment to the customer, actively buying inventory,and keeping a close eye on trends, and her passionate staff, as reasons why her shop continues to create buzz in the borough. We happen to think it has a little come thing to do with her, too.
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