Yesterday’s Babe’s take on the future
We spoke to Isabelle Taylor and discussed all things future for both her own specialist brand, Yesterday’s Babe Vintage, and the youth-led platform itself.
Isabelle is a London based fashion design student, but you may know her as the one-woman show behind Yesterday’s Babe Vintage. Having recently bought a 70s authentic two-piece from her, and worn it tirelessly even with nowhere to go, I have been very excited to get this interview up for you guys. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
All images courtesy of Yesterday’s Babe Vintage
Hey Issy, how would you describe yourself to the Blue Chip community?
I think the best way to describe myself is through my style which is a combination of 60s and 70s, Stevie Nicks and 90s Courtney Love. I’m obsessed with anything bohemian that’s rough around the edges.
Who do you attribute your vintage passion to?
My love of second hand is attributed to both my Dad and Nan. My Dad has had an eBay store for as long as I can remember, selling unique furniture and vintage games and comics. My Nan, well she has always resold such beautiful antiques and jewellery.
In your three years on the platform you have sold over a thousand items and grown a community of 31k followers, but where did it all start?
Originally, I started on eBay. I didn’t feel as though I could create a brand on there and felt that my personal style and identity was slightly ignored. During my eBay days, I always had the Depop app, but it wasn’t until I finally began learning how to navigate Depop that it became easier to represent me, my style and what I was selling in a more creative light.
It isn’t as easy to get noticed on Depop, but due to your unrivalled success, you’ve been given the Depop top seller title. What does that mean to you and your business?
This all began as a means of making a little bit of extra money as a teenager. Initially, I didn’t even know being a top seller was a thing. After being on Depop for a few years, that’s when I set my heart on that top position and it felt great to have achieved it. I am so grateful to have the platform and community that Depop has enabled me to have.
What’s the beauty of being a top seller?
The most cherished part of being a top seller for me would be finding the most gorgeous items and watching other people love and enjoy them too! I also thrive off the fact that my job is effectively promoting buying second hand, which benefits our planet hugely.
How do you find your unique items?
Unique items are very rarely found together if ever at all. I find the most individual items in the most random places at the most random of times. For me, locations vary but one thing remains certain, you cannot beat a charity shop, car boot or jumble sale.
What are the tricks of the trade? (only if you’re happy to give them away!)
Over the years of sourcing, I’ve learnt that going with my heart and buying the items I’m totally in love with makes such a difference in my attitude towards my shop and usually reflects in the sales. A good thing to remember is that people follow and buy from particular sellers for the experience and energy they give off. So, usually, if I like something, there’s most likely to be someone else who likes it too!
Can you give us an insight into the state of Depop since the pandemic here in the UK?
Honestly, I think people were scared to continue to buy and sell on the app due to everything being second hand. In the beginning, people were concerned that the virus was spreading through the post, I must have received at least 10 messages a day from people wanting to purchase but were full of concern. But, Depop is known for its strong community, especially the top seller community, so we’ve all been coming together and talking to each other. I’ve found friends in at least ten other sellers through talking and sharing over these stressful times.
Do you believe there is a growing concern around the price of vintage and hygiene ?
I understand why people may find the idea of wearing pre-loved unhygienic, but if you’re unsure, I would always recommend buying from a second-hand seller who curates vintage. In other words, let them do all the dirty work. Pricing of vintage can be expensive, but the pieces are likely one-offs, rare or desirable so the price tag is there for that reason. Although, vintage doesn’t have to be pricey. There are mounds of vintage shops and eBay sellers who sell their stock at lower price points.
Has the pandemic affected the industry of fashion and consumerism?
Everybody initially thought it would defeat us when in fact, it’s shutting down fast fashion and promoting independent businesses even more than before!
I right to assume you’re all for sustainable consumerism as the future?
Yes! Second-hand shopping has boomed over the last 5 years. Sustainability and shopping to save money and the planet has become extremely popular, and I don’t doubt for a second it will continue to grow.
“Strive to do the things you would normally do and try the things you’ve been putting off…
and make sure to get dressed!”
— Isabelle Taylor of Yesterday’s Babe Vintage
What would be your pearls of wisdom for someone that may be on the fence about sustainability as a lifestyle?
Take it step by step. It can be daunting and you may find it tricky at first, but the more you research why you’re doing it, the clearer and easier it becomes to shake off unsustainable habits. Also, if you’re someone who buys fast fashion or designer regularly, don’t cut it out completely, as you’re more likely to be tempted to go back. I would set a limit - let’s say, one new item a month? Then try to reduce it as time goes on. Sustainability is a journey, enjoy it.
Do you have any words of encouragement that you’d like to share?
Don’t neglect your health or mentality. Drive to do the things you would normally do and try the things you’ve been putting off. And make sure to get dressed, even if its once a week, it will make you feel ten times better I promise. Positivity is so important, being at one with yourself and finding yourself is vital to positivity. If you’re not quite there yet, being optimistic will take you one step further.