Hidden Gems: Meet Melissa Evans of Retro Vixen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Evans.

Hi Melissa, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2009 I was working with my friend, a local pin up photographer. We were teaching vintage styling classes. I would curate a list of places to shop for retro inspired clothing, and realized there was a huge shopping defecit in Kansas City.
We then had the idea to open a retro inspired boutique with a pin up photography studio attached.
After a couple years we quickly outgrew sharing the space and the photographer opened her own studio, therefore allowing my boutique to expand in the space it currently resided in.
Through events and word of mouth we established quite a following and became the staple boutique we are today.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Absolutely not 😉 The first couple years were difficult. Lots of trial and error and establishing what items the customers were interested in purchasing. Being a first time business owner, I didn’t have a lot of good resources and pin up and retro inspired clothing brands were still a very small. niche market.
The last 2 years have been the hardest since then as well. With growing inflation and grocery prices rising, people have less disposable income.
People are also purchasing more “fast fashion” which is a fraction of our prices. At times it’s hard to compete.

We’ve been impressed with Retro Vixen , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Retro Vixen is more than just a clothing boutique, It’s a community for like minded individuals to connect. We pride ourselves in being inclusive on all levels. Whether it’s the sizing we carry (XS-5XL) or an allie to the LGBTQIA+ community.
We feel it’s important to have a safe space where you can come in and feel seen and beautiful.
We’re proud to carry brands that are manufactured using ethical practices, and still be affordable.
Whether you have a large salary or just a young adult, our affordable inventory is accessible to everyone. We want everyone to be able to come in and find something special without a huge financial burden.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I’m optimistic people will continue to see value in small, brick and mortar businesses. I feel with “fast fashion” and online conglomerates it’s difficult to compete, but a few small businesses that can cater to shoppers that enjoy trying on the clothing, and seeing the fabrics will still be relevant and in demand.
I think people will see how purchasing solely online and being disstaisfied with the item will not only cost them money, but contribute to more waste, and they’ll appreciate businesses they can physically visit.

Pricing:

• dresses range from $48-$140
• average dress is around $80
• earrings from $6-$30
• enamel pins $5
• stickers $1

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.retrovixenkc.com
• Instagram: retrovixenkc
• Facebook: Retro Vixen