The Remix Vintage Fashion Shop
Our Fashion Director, Malikah Page, chats with The Remix Vintage Fashion Shop owner, Stacy DiTata, about the beauty and evolution of fashion, her faith in God and her true motivation.
UKM: How would you describe the beauty in fashion?
SD: Beauty in fashion, to me, is the freedom of expression. There is nothing more beautiful than to see a person, man or woman, having the conviction to express themselves uniquely and authentically. This type of conviction is lacking in modern fashion consumerism. That is why many highly expressive people shop vintage. To find that special something that uniquely defines them.
UKM: How do you believe fashion has evolved?
SD: I believe fashion has evolved in step with our society and culture; the more free the society, the more free one's creative expression – in the arts, music and consequently, fashion.
UKM: Do you believe that God has a great impact on your life and the success of your boutique?
SD: Absolutely. Spiritual maturity goes hand in hand with personal empowerment. I was raised Catholic and went through a "Christian identity crisis" in my thirties. I went full circle studying eastern philosophies, rereading the Bible, visiting different churches. My spiritual work taught me that the universe opens up to one who connects with the infinite God. Immature thinking is easily seduced by the finite – materialism. Once you learn to listen to the true power, life becomes miraculous. My journey to own my own fashion boutique has been a journey filled with magical moments given to me by God. I learned in my studies that service was a truth. I wondered how I could serve my fellow man if I did not feel the passion to study medicine or theology. If what I loved was something as silly as vintage clothing? I learned that we serve our fellow man by being happy and sharing joy. [It] is a great gift. Many people visit my shop because it makes them happy too. If asked how one could fulfill their dreams and passions, I would answer: ‘Learn to listen better; clear away the static in your life. And trust your fellow man. God speaks through all of us.’
UKM: What was your main or sole source of inspiration?
SD: I would definitely have to say my husband. At five, he knew that the only thing he wanted to do was to play music. When he was old enough, he went to LA [Los Angeles, CA] and studied Jazz. He never lost focus on his passion and his creative purpose. He gave me the confidence to let go of the "corporate steering wheel" and let my own professional purpose drive my life. He and I are totally self-employed as creative people. Thank God.
The Remix Vintage Fashion Shop was established in 2002, in the eclectic neighborhood of Del Ray in the city of Alexandria, Virginia. [Located] at 1906 Mt. Vernon Avenue, [the shop] was founded by Stacey DiTata, an experienced retailer who sought to merge modern presentation and merchandising standards with the vintage clothing industry. Her mission was to create a vintage shop that offered affordable vintage clothing for men and women, merchandised in a contemporary way using proven presentation and merchandising techniques. It has worked! The client base has grown from the thirty-something career woman, to include thirteen-year-old teenagers as well as older and [more] sophisticated clientele.
The Remix satisfies those shoppers seeking an independent and artistic expression to their fashion style through unusual and extraordinary vintage finds. Quality is the key word in describing vintage clothing as older value systems dictate the unsurpassed craftsmanship of past generations. The merchandise mix at The Remix includes fashions from the turn of the century through the 80’s, with a concentration on fashions from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.
Such beauties as silk organza cocktail dresses from the 50’s; funky polyester halter gowns from the 70’s; and sassy and bright printed mini-dresses from the 60’s are a few examples of the fashion finds that can be treasured at The Remix. Classic designer fashions from past decades include: Pucci, Elizabeth Arden, Nina Ricci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Yves St. Laurent, Lilly Pulitzer and others. The Remix also cherishes fashions from the greats like Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord and Taylor, I. Magnin, and Washington’s own Garfinkels, and Woodward and Lothrop.
Accessories and jewelry also abound at The Remix with highly collectible Lucite purses and signed rhinestone jewelry. And let’s not forget about the guys! The Remix’s men’s fashions have delighted many fashion-conscious men looking for quality and attractive shirts, suits and jackets from bygone eras.
The Remix Vintage Fashion Shop has been written up in the Washington Post, the Washington Times, and selected as Editor’s Choice on WashingtonPost.com. In December of 2004, it was voted “One of the Best of Washington” in the Washingtonian Magazine for the category of vintage clothing shops in the metropolitan area. The Remix continues to serve the growing Alexandria community with premier service, quality vintage clothing and a friendly smile.
Style: Urban Mode 
