Local boutique transforms fashion landscape through emphasis on sustainability

 
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.— A Santa Barbara business owner is changing the way people see fashion, one vintage piece at a time.
 
Her name is Sarah Anticouni and she owns Sarah’s Groovy Vintage Consignment store located in the Magic Castle Cabaret at 30 Los Patos Way in Santa Barbara.
 
“The first thing they say when they walk into the store they go, ‘Wow, I didn't know this was here,’” said Anticouni.
 
It’s filled with one-of-a kind, second hand pieces that originate from more than a century of fashion from 1880 to 1990.
 
Customers like Marc Martinez say browsing here feels like a trip down memory lane.
 
“I’m old, tried to relive my youth. Nostalgia’s just really big these days, and I'm trying to hold on to it as long as I can,” said Martinez.
  
Martinez found a 60's inspired outfit that he’s excited to wear to a Beatles Tribute Band Show.

He says every piece of fashion tells a story.
 
“I do love rediscovering lost stories of the past,” said Martinez.
 
Anticouni says when it comes to fashion sustainability is key.
 
“Everything new that you pretty much are finding in these chain stores is not going to last, is going to end up falling apart, is not good for the planet because over 30% of all of the clothing ends up in the dump,” said Anticouni.
 
Anticouni adds that it's a misconception that shopping vintage is not financially sustainable and your dollar will go farther buying something second hand.
 
She says her pieces are versatile and work well for events like Valentine’s Day and the upcoming Santa Barbara Film Festival.
 

For more from Mina, follow her on Twitter below: