DC Vintage Rooftop Market Showcases Diversity and Inclusivity in Fashion with Queer and People of Color-Owned Businesses

The first day of Autumn was kicked off at the Line Hotel’s rooftop in Washington, D.C. with a vintage market featuring a diverse lineup of queer-owned and people of color-owned businesses.

 The event curated more than a mere shopping experience, the Line’s rooftop was metamorphosed into a vibrant marketplace that fostered a comforting and inclusive environment for the D.C. community’s scarce thrift scene.  From clothing to homeware to rare vinyls, there was something for everyone. 

The D.C. thrift store scene has been scarce and unaffordable for years, leaving thrifters to shop at large chain stores to find affordable second-hand finds. 

Evolve Vintage, a queer-owned business founded by Lydia Franklin, 26, and The Disco Loft, an Asian American-owned business founded by Sidney Hui, 30, realize the stigma that has existed around thrifting, the scarcity of options, and the lack of inclusivity present at local flea markets. They aim to change that with events like these and take pride in providing a welcoming space where everybody can find something for themselves. 

“As long as you’re patient and willing to sort through things, it’s not only great for the environment but you’re able to find more unique pieces and play with your style more because it’s more affordable, and connect with people from all over the world.” Hui said.

This was the second Line Hotel market, the first one taking place last month, but Franklin and Hui are hoping to make it a monthly occasion to continue giving marginalized communities a platform in the rapidly evolving vintage scene. 

“I think historically, this industry has seen a lot of exclusivity and male domination so it’s really cool to see people of color, women, and the queer community be featured in thrifting because it gives more people an opportunity to express themselves in non-conforming ways.” Franklin said.

Hui and Franklin partnered with the hotel to organize the event. Vendors arrived two hours before the event to set up, sharing breakfast and helping each other set up their booths. Once thrifters arrived, they were not only able to shop intentionally curated pieces but receive insightful advice from a tarot reader, customize their own charm bracelets, and have their portraits drawn. 

A majority of the items sold at the market were previously owned by the businesses owners, they had accumulated such a large collection of items they did not know what to do with, selling them was the main way space could be made for more. “I gifted most things to friends until Instagram became big with selling and that’s what really got me started.” Hui said.

Similarly, By Sandri Jewelry, founded by Andrea Zapata, 34, a Latin American and immigrant-owned business, sells jewelry made by her mother, Sandri Zapata, who initially intended for it to be a retirement hobby until her daughter decided to start a businesses. 

The jewelry is mostly made with crystals and gemstones,“Boxes of jewelry were filling up our house and my mom thought she should stop making it, I wanted her to sell it so she could keep creating because it makes her happy.” Zapata said. “She spends a lot of time making the jewelry.”

The hosts of the market made sure to create a safe space with items made and curated with love. “Everything I select is something I would wear but it’s not my size or I think someone else would get more use out of it.” Franklin said. 

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