Dear Customer

As an avid vintage clothing collector since the late seventies, I would like to share some of my own history, core values, and selection criteria with you. Although I carry many designer labels, some well known and others obscure, the selection is based on fabric, condition, age, cut and authenticity – regardless of the label. Over time, I have added quality designer and vintage pieces from all eras. This has evolved into a collection that appeals to those who are looking for one-of-a-kind additions to their wardrobes, or quality staple and designer pieces to blend in with a unique style.

Initially, my focus and passion was for dresses and hats from the twenties through to the sixties. In the nineties I organized some vintage fashion shows in the Vancouver area. One of the shows I was asked to costume for the Big Band look of the forties – was filmed, and won the Pacific National Cable Television Award. However, the entire collection was gradually amassed as a hobby, while I had another full-time career. It has truly been a long-term “hands on” labor of love for vintage finery and décor. It all began of course, because I have always loved to shop for, and wear vintage clothing. From the first 1930’s dress I pulled out of a costume box in a thrift store many years ago – I was hooked on vintage.

I am now happily immersed in doing, and in sharing what I love most in the material world – vintage fashion. In the non-material realm, it is in writing and in poetry – in particular, the lyric voice. The collection of poetry I have written over the years coincides in many ways with the vintage clothing collection. During times of restlessness, one was the diversion to generate action – and the other for muse. Both have been diversions in my life that I have found to be inspirational and rewarding. I enjoy finding vintage treasures – steaming, researching, caring for and photographing them. Even though it has taken awhile, it is a natural progression to create an online store and blog.

As an assurance to the customer, I have always looked for items that are in excellent condition. Each item is examined closely at purchase, and then again during the process of listing it. Garments that require minor repairs are taken to a professional seamstress. You can expect each item to be professionally dry-cleaned or hand washed so that it will be ready to wear when you receive it. If an item is not professionally cleaned due to age or fragility, you will be advised of that before the sale is made. I will not make claims that an item is “professionally steam cleaned in-house”. Steaming clothing removes wrinkles. It does not clean them. The majority of clothing listed on this website are steamed and photographed prior to being dry cleaned, in order to avoid handling after cleaning, as well as to send “freshly cleaned” items to the customer.

My goal is to quietly and diligently serve customers with a wide range of beautiful, well crafted, interesting, artistic, and nostalgic pieces. Exclusive, but not elitist – Quiet West Vintage aims to provide a fun and eclectic online shopping experience. The idea is to present a wide range of choices, by bringing together hundreds of unique designer and vintage pieces, into one store. It is a selection that is geared toward individualism, creative expression, and mixed decade ensembles – for one-of-a-kind damsels!

I cannot guarantee that I won’t make mistakes from time to time. I can guarantee that I will respond to questions, help with purchases – and make every effort to keep customers happy.

Thank you for visiting!

Valerie Hayes

Owner/Founder