Imagine being embarrassed to shop second-hand, then spending the next decade making a living out of other people’s clothes. That’s Justyna Jezierska-Sałasińska for you. Ten years into running Klamoty Vintage in Gdańsk, she’s swapped fashion insecurities for designer treasures, developed a serious weakness for silk scarves and declared war on polyester and people who blindly follow trends. We caught up with Justyna to talk Parisian style, hidden gems and why yesterday’s clothes might just make today’s fashion look a little ridiculous.
Justyna: The Queen Of Other Peoples Clothes
From makeup artist to vintage shop owner. What happened?
Makeup was just a stepping stone. I’ve always loved experimenting with fashion and dreamed of creating somewhere like Klamoty since my teens.
Photo by Adalat NaghiyevYou once felt embarrassed shopping second-hand. What changed?
I discovered the quality, history and character of vintage clothing. Giving beautiful pieces another life became something to celebrate.
Ten years of Klamoty. Your toughest and proudest moments?
COVID, the war in Ukraine and countless challenges tested us. But seeing customers return year after year makes everything worthwhile.
What did Paris teach you about style?
Forget trends. Invest in timeless quality, beautiful fabrics and great cuts. Clothes should last years, not weeks.
Photo by Adalat NaghiyevYour greatest vintage treasures?
Old handbags and silk scarves are my weakness! I’ve kept Balenciaga and Miu Miu bags and a Louis Vuitton scarf. Some treasures are impossible to surrender.
Has vintage become too expensive?
Exceptional pieces cost more now, but affordable treasures still exist. The thrill is finding them!
What earns a place in Klamoty?
Quality, individuality and history. Mass-produced, poorly made clothing doesn’t stand a chance.
Photo by Adalat Naghiyev
Photo by Adalat NaghiyevGdańsk’s biggest fashion crime?
Blindly following trends! I’d happily banish excessive logos and polyester fast fashion. Style is about personality, not labels.
How would you convert a vintage sceptic?
Great-quality jeans and a cashmere sweater. Sometimes the simplest pieces make the strongest argument.
What’s your most embarrassing wardrobe secret?
Nothing! My wardrobe is small and carefully curated. I’ve learned my style and stopped collecting unnecessary things. Sorry, no skeletons in this closet!