The Founding of Found
Who I Am: The Story Behind Found Vintage
Some people find their love for fashion in glossy magazines or high-end boutiques. For me, it started in my grandmother’s closet in Moorhead, Minnesota, at just eight years old. Playing dress-up in her vintage coats, elegant dresses, and timeless accessories, I wasn’t just trying on clothes—I was trying on history. That childhood fascination grew into a lifelong passion, shaping not just my personal style but the very foundation of Found Vintage.
Growing Up in the 90s: A Lasting Influence
I was born in 1993, which means I was a kid through the 90s—but that decade left a huge impression on me. The music, the culture, and the energy of that time shaped my love for bold fashion and self-expression. It was an era where style was tied to identity—Shania Twain’s country-pop confidence, Tupac’s raw storytelling, and the effortless cool of 90s streetwear. The 90s weren’t just about what you wore, but what you stood for. That energy is woven into every piece at Found Vintage—streetwear that tells a story, Western classics that feel both nostalgic and timeless, and textiles that reflect culture and craftsmanship.
Nature, The West, and the Art of Sustainability
Growing up, I spent countless summers camping in Northern Minnesota and Oregon’s vast wilderness, surrounded by towering pines, quiet lakes, and the hum of the wilderness. Being in nature instilled in me a deep respect for sustainability—understanding that what we take from the earth should be valued, not wasted. This connection to the land was further shaped by my time in Arizona, where I fell in love with the history of the American West—its textiles, its music, its rugged yet soulful aesthetic. Found Vintage is a reflection of these influences, blending heritage workwear, classic Americana, and natural materials that stand the test of time.
Roots in Kenya & Ghana: A Love for African Textiles
My roots run deep in Kenya, and in the summer of 2018, I had the opportunity to live in Ghana, immersing myself in the country’s art, culture, and textiles. There, I witnessed how fabric is more than just material—it’s a language. Every Kente cloth, Ankara print, and handwoven textile tells a story of history, craftsmanship, and identity. This experience cemented my love for African prints and their role in fashion as both art and storytelling. Found Vintage incorporates these traditions, celebrating the richness of African textiles alongside other globally inspired vintage pieces.
Clothing as an Artform, Clothing as Self-Care
To me, fashion isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling connected to something bigger than ourselves. Clothing is an art form, a form of self-expression, and an act of self-care. Wearing vintage means carrying history with you, giving new life to pieces that have already lived. It’s about intentionality, about choosing items that feel authentic, and about embracing the past while making it your own.
Found Vintage isn’t just a store—it’s a reflection of everything I love, from the streets of 90s New York to the vast Arizona desert, from the forests of Minnesota and Oregon to the markets of Ghana. It’s a place where fashion, history, and sustainability meet. It’s about honoring the past while creating something new. And most of all, it’s about celebrating the beauty of what’s already here.
