Bay Garnett, the stylist dubbed the ‘Queen of Thrift,’ has a knack for unearthing incredible vintage treasures. Her most famous find? A banana-print top discovered in a New York thrift store, which unexpectedly ended up on Kate Moss in a 2003 British Vogue editorial shot by Juergen Teller. This seemingly insignificant piece later served as inspiration for Phoebe Philo’s iconic print for Chloé, cementing Garnett’s reputation as a true fashion visionary.
Garnett recently shared her thrifting secrets on Vogue’s new podcast, *The Closet Digest*, sponsored by Vinted. Describing the moment she found the now-legendary banana top, she reminisces, “It was a beautiful morning, New York at its finest. And I walked in, and there it was.” But her success isn’t just about luck; it’s a carefully cultivated approach.
“This sounds very woo-woo,” Garnett admits, “but I do think there’s a kind of thrifting magic.” She emphasizes the importance of mindset: “I think if you go in with energy, optimism, and a willingness to discover, you will find something.” This isn’t about aimlessly browsing; it’s about going in with a plan, but remaining flexible.
Her top tip? “It’s really good to think about what you’re into,” she explains. “What have you seen that you like? Have you seen a movie with a dress that you thought someone looked great in?” This helps narrow your focus without stifling spontaneity. She cautions against overly specific goals: “Going in thinking you’re going to find a 1920s Balenciaga, or your dream piece… it doesn’t necessarily work well.” The thrill of the hunt is about the unexpected discovery.
However, sometimes, the unexpected leads to truly remarkable finds. Garnett recalls acquiring an impeccably preserved Yves Saint Laurent 1969 safari suit, famously worn by Veruschka, from the British Red Cross on Church Street in Chelsea. “I got it for £400; it’s worth a lot more now,” she reveals, highlighting the potential for uncovering significant pieces of fashion history within the seemingly ordinary piles of secondhand clothing.
Beyond the individual treasures, Garnett’s story underscores a larger trend towards sustainable and conscious fashion. Her approach to thrifting offers a compelling alternative to fast fashion, proving that unique style and ethical consumption can coexist. Garnett’s journey, chronicled in *The Closet Digest*, serves as a valuable guide for aspiring vintage enthusiasts, inspiring listeners to embark on their own magical thrifting adventures. Listen to *The Closet Digest* on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform to hear more of Garnett’s insightful tips and captivating stories from the world of vintage fashion.
