Hello Readers! Imagine basking in the warm sunshine, a gentle breeze in the air, and your favorite radio station spinning eclectic tunes. Now, picture tuning in to a conversation that’s as quirky and vibrant as a hidden thrift store gem—welcome to our exclusive interview with Recovering Hipster Goods, where vintage treasures meet modern sustainability in the most unexpected way.

Fashion Denver: Welcome to the show, Recovering Hipster Goods! Let’s kick things off with your origin story. Was it born over a pour-over coffee or a vintage vinyl find?

Recovering Hipster Goods: It all started with my deep love for thrifting, estate sales, and second-hand shopping. Back in my twenties, I’d load up my car with my finds and share them with friends—so much so they joked it was “Kayte’s Moving Closet.” For years I sold items online, but then during a career transition last year, I took a leap with pop-up markets around Denver. One night, over drinks with a friend, we dreamed up the idea of a brick-and-mortar shop. That spark led to everything, and I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of friends, family, and our community.

Fashion Denver: Let’s talk wardrobe. What’s the most “hipster” thing you’ve ever owned, and do you still secretly love it?

Recovering Hipster Goods: I once snagged a 1980s Billy Idol tour tank top. It’s perfectly worn-in—slightly faded, a little holey, and absolutely badass. I still rock it now, often pairing it with a blazer and wide-leg pants to capture that perfect blend of rock ‘n’ roll edge and refined style.

Fashion Denver: Love that mix of rebellion and refinement! How would you describe your aesthetic in three words? Extra credit if one of them is obscure.

Recovering Hipster Goods: Eclectic. Unconventional. Obscure (ha!).

Fashion Denver: Now, I have to ask—has there ever been an item you created that you were tempted to keep for yourself instead of selling?

Recovering Hipster Goods: [Winks] Some secrets are best kept close to the chest… let’s just say a few treasures almost stayed home!

Fashion Denver: Fair enough! And what’s the wildest or weirdest thing you’ve ever upcycled into something cool?

Recovering Hipster Goods: Oh, there are a few surprises in the vault—but I’ll leave some of those wild stories for a later chat!

Fashion Denver: Speaking of surprises, if you threw a party, what would be on the playlist and what snacks would be non-negotiable?

Recovering Hipster Goods: The party playlist would be on fire—a mix of groove, grit, and pure vibes. Imagine Outkast for undeniable funk, Deer Tick for whiskey-soaked folk rock, Toots and the Maytals bringing in the reggae energy, Kendrick Lamar with infectious beats, Beach House’s dreamy tunes, Khruangbin’s hypnotic funk, and so much more. And for snacks? Think Dirty Martinis with extra olives, ALL the dips—from baba ganoush to hummus and tzatziki with fresh pita—and a charcuterie overload with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, figs, honey, nuts, plus a cheeky dessert board for something sweet.

Fashion Denver: Now that’s a party I’d RSVP to! What’s one trend you’re excited to see make a comeback—and one you’d rather leave in the past?

Recovering Hipster Goods: I’m thrilled about the return of wide-leg, boot-cut, and flare pants. They never really went out of style in my book, and seeing them embraced again is fantastic—especially when you think about how Kendrick Lamar rocked them with that iconic letter jacket and flares. As for trends best left behind? Well, some things are just too passé to revisit!

Fashion Denver: Let’s dive into your creative side. What’s your process like? Do ideas hit you in the shower, on late-night snack runs, or while out thrifting?

Recovering Hipster Goods: My creative process is a wild mix of curiosity, exploration, and playful experimentation. I soak up inspiration from everywhere—engaging conversations, vintage aesthetics, cultural shifts, and the thrill of unearthing something special. Often, while sorting through inventory or chatting with customers, I’ll suddenly see an item’s potential in a whole new light. It’s like sifting through a treasure trove, discarding what doesn’t fit, and reimagining the best finds in fresh, exciting ways.

Fashion Denver: If your brand were a character in a movie, who would it be and why?

Recovering Hipster Goods: [Laughs] That’s a fun one—I might just let our cinematic mystery remain an enigma for now!

Style & Community Vibes

Fashion Denver: How does Denver’s creative community inspire your work?

Recovering Hipster Goods: Denver’s creative scene is a nonstop source of inspiration—from musicians, artists, and muralists to tattooists, fashion designers, and hairstylists. I’m constantly moved by everyday people expressing their individuality in bold, unique ways. The city’s passion for art and collaboration fuels my creative fire.

Fashion Denver: Sustainability is clearly at the heart of your brand. What fuels your passion for upcycling and reusing?

Recovering Hipster Goods: Sustainability matters because mass production in fashion and home goods has huge environmental and social impacts. The fashion industry is responsible for a staggering 10% of global carbon emissions and consumes vast amounts of water. With most textiles ending up in landfills, and the home goods sector contributing to deforestation and pollution, I wanted to be part of the solution. By curating high-quality, secondhand, vintage, and upcycled pieces, I’m helping extend their life cycle, reduce waste, and offer a more ethical, sustainable way to shop.

Fashion Denver: Do you have a go-to spot in Denver for creative inspiration or vintage treasure hunting?

Recovering Hipster Goods: Denver is brimming with inspiration! I find creative energy in art museums, live music performances, and even the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. For vintage treasure hunting, I have a soft spot for the antique stores along South Broadway and the unexpected gems you uncover at estate sales.

Fashion Denver: Lastly, how do you want people to feel when they wear or own something from Recovering Hipster Goods?

Recovering Hipster Goods: I want people to feel connected, creative, and purposeful. Every piece has its own story—living a past life and now starting a new chapter with its owner. It’s about feeling good knowing your style is not only unique and well-made, but also sustainable. It’s a celebration of quality, reducing waste, and joining a more circular, ethical economy.

Lightning Round (Rapid-Fire Fun)

Fashion Denver: Ready? Let’s go!

• Fashion Denver: Flannel or denim?
  Recovering Hipster Goods: Denim.

• Fashion Denver: Record player or Spotify playlist?
  Recovering Hipster Goods: Vinyl.

• Fashion Denver: Espresso or cold brew?
  Recovering Hipster Goods: Espresso.

• Fashion Denver: Beard oil: essential or overrated?
  Recovering Hipster Goods: Essential.

• Fashion Denver: Favorite thrift store score ever?
  Recovering Hipster Goods: A Burberry cropped wool jacket.

• Fashion Denver: Vintage typewriter: décor or functional?
  Recovering Hipster Goods: Both.

Fashion Denver: What a ride! Thank you for sharing your quirky journey, creative process, and the heart behind Recovering Hipster Goods. Here’s to many more stylish and sustainable adventures!