By: Jordan Meadows
Staff Writer
Founded in 2023, Durham Vintage Collective quickly became a standout destination for vintage lovers in Durham, North Carolina.
The Collective’s curated selection is a dream come true for fans of all things retro. Whether you’re looking for charming home décor, statement fashion pieces, or obscure collectibles, the store has something to surprise and delight you.
From eclectic keychains that span decades to vintage Barbies and VHS tapes, every item feels like a time capsule from a different era. Their home goods selection includes antique picture frames, funky lamps, elegant ceramic vases, and furniture that’s perfect for adding character to any living space.
And for fashion lovers, the store offers a carefully chosen collection of timeless clothing and accessories, representing an array of eras. The carefully selected inventory promises something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of rugged outerwear or seeking a dazzling disco dress from the 1970s.
“That’s our main mission: to provide affordable vintage items to our community,” founder and curator Alison Matney said.
The four founders of the Collective, along with Matney, HK McKinney, and Chelsea Polson, though initially strangers to one another, share a deep passion for the niche and the variety that vintage shopping provides. Matney runs Bull City Vintage and has a sharp eye for art, décor, and furniture; another specializes in t-shirts and rugged outerwear; one focuses on disco design and mid-century apparel; and the Durham Vintage Collective as a whole brings together the best of their individual brands, ensuring the store offers something for everyone. As Matney puts it, the mission is clear: to provide affordable vintage items to the local community.
A key component to the shop’s success is its constant freshness. The team is dedicated to keeping the space vibrant and full of new items.
“What separates us from everyone else: we do provide a little bit of everything. And that’s because we can’t stop ourselves from expanding our products,” Matney said. “There’s someone out there that has that niche, they collect that thing: McDonald’s toys from the ‘80s down to deadstock ‘80s earrings. We really search and look out for all those kinds of random little vintage items that bring something special to our shop.”
In addition to the core selection, Durham Vintage Collective also offers a unique opportunity for local artists and resellers to showcase their products. The shop subleases spaces to local entrepreneurs on a rotating 2-3 month lease, giving those who have only sold online a chance to experience a physical storefront. This collaboration allows local creatives to gain exposure while simultaneously bringing fresh items into the Collective.
The store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff plays a huge role in shaping the welcoming atmosphere. Customer service is a core value to them, and the founders take pride in building relationships with their customers.
“It’s not easy: it’s harder to find things. You really have to look and you want it to be in good condition. That’s very important to me as the curator of the shop: making sure what we’re providing is good quality pieces,” Matney said.
She also emphasized how special it is to connect with customers in person, learning about their interests and preferences to make their shopping experience more personal. This direct interaction is something they value deeply and work to improve with every customer.
The wide range of products available appeals to a diverse group of shoppers, especially younger generations looking to rediscover items that their parents or even grandparents once loved. It’s this eclectic selection that makes the shop stand out as a treasure trove for collectors and casual vintage enthusiasts alike.
While the physical store has become a beloved local hotspot, Durham Vintage Collective also maintains an online presence to reach a wider audience. Through their website, they keep customers updated on new arrivals, events, and special announcements.
The shop also has a unique selling program, where customers can submit vintage items for consideration. If accepted, items are purchased, cleaned, and resold at the store, ensuring a steady flow of new inventory while supporting local vintage sellers.
Durham Vintage Collective’s growth and success have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the shop was featured in the New York Times as the #1 place to shop in Durham—a recognition that left the owners shocked and grateful. They also earned accolades from Durham Magazine, winning awards for Best Clothing and Best Home Furnishings.
“Our gratefulness for our clients I think shows. Our inclusiveness, and just treating everybody the way we want to be treated, is also really important because I don’t think customer service is as strong as it used to be,” Matney said.
However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Seasonal fluctuations in demand, particularly after the holidays and before taxes are due, can make it difficult to maintain sales momentum during the colder months. And like many businesses, staying relevant in an era of reduced consumption and high operational costs remains an ongoing challenge.
Looking ahead, the founders are eager to expand their reach and deepen their involvement in the Durham community. They hope to host more partnerships and collaborations, organize customer appreciation events, and further cement their place as a cornerstone of downtown Durham’s artistic and entrepreneurial landscape.