Rice and Beans Vintage is your classic vintage shop. This place is sure to satisfy the distinguished vintage seeker as well as those who are just testing the waters, pleasing both uber designer label queens and the indie & thrift hunters. Each piece featured on Rice and Beans is the textbook classic vintage designer piece, and anyone looking to start shopping vintage would be wise to start here, as the majority of items sold will easily integrate with modern pieces. While vintage shops previously featured on Unfunded have had an edgier take on items, Rice and Beans is for the girl  looking for vintage pieces, a la monogrammed Burberry cardigans blazers and Chanel pumps,  that will instantly transform any outfit into a classy-chic masterpiece. I had the pleasure of asking Sarah, the owner of Rice and Beans, a few questions on her role in the world of vintage.

• What inspired you to get into the business of vintage fashion?: My unwavering love of fashion, dressing up, and sky high heels!
• Who are your old-school fashion icons?: Sophia Loren is my current favorite.
• What is your favorite vintage label?: My favorite Vintage designer label is Gucci, followed closely by Chanel, oh and of course Pucci… hmmm.. this is way too hard!
• Where does the name “Rice & Beans Vintage” come from?: The name Rice and Beans Vintage comes from a nickname my love gave me a long time ago, Ms. Rice and Beans….it has to do with a little bit of sass & spice.
• What is your personal style?: My personal style is constantly changing.  Before I became a mom 3 years ago, I wore heels everyday and mixed a lot of vintage with modern clothing.  Now a days I still collect shoes and love to take them out, but not as much as I’d like to!  My style is pretty low key right now, I am currently obsessed with leather jackets in all colors and styles.
• What are your main sources for purchasing items for your store?: This is a very popular question and will remain a secret!
• Some people find vintage clothing intimidating. I love vintage fashion but sometimes I don’t really know how to incorporate vintage with modern. In this economy, thrifting, vintage & swap meets are becoming more commonplace as shoppers are beginning to understand the value of an awesome vintage find. What are your tips for successfully mixing vintage and thrift items with newer pieces?: I really encourage people to start off slow and start by incorporating a fantastic pair of Vintage shoes or a Vintage designer handbag to your current look.  You can’t go wrong with this approach, it won’t break the bank and you won’t end up aging yourself!
• What’s a good first vintage purchase for someone who doesn’t really know how to shop vintage?: Buy what you love!
• What are the big sellers at Rice & Beans Vintage?: Chanel, Vintage Gucci, Feminine separates, and unique vintage handbags.
• What is the one vintage purchase you wouldn’t be able to pass up?: I have a very soft spot for everything Vintage Gucci, especially Vintage Gucci boots!

Sarah, thank you very much for your time! And readers, seriously check out Rice and Beans Vintage!