Who or what will inspire the next designs at Target?
The design partnerships team, known for bringing high fashion to Target (see: the recent buffalo plaid-inspired collaboration with Adam Lippes), is always looking for their next big idea. Where, you ask? International trips, adventures in Chicago vintage stores—and sometimes right in their own backyard.
This month, we joined New Yorker and Target Design Partnership team member Gigi Guerra on her turf in Brooklyn to search for fabulous and unique finds at Brooklyn Flea.“Half the fun of shopping a flea market for me is just getting inspired by all the things I see,” Gigi told us. “It might sound ridiculous, but I get the same amount of creative stimulation and inspiration walking around a flea market that I do walking through a museum. It’s a cacophony of color and a mash-up of styles that span decades and tastes.”
Read on to learn more about Gigi’s flea market picks and tips!
What inspires you most about flea markets?
The fact that you never know what you’ll find. It’s exhilarating! The thrill of the hunt is what keeps me going. I’ve found amazing things in places I never would’ve expected. I also like the idea that someone else’s treasures can find a new life and a new home and provide happiness again and again.
What is your all-time favorite flea market find? What was so great about it?
I found a sequined Stephen Sprouse dress ages ago at a market for some insane price, like $20. I can’t even imagine how much it’s worth now. And on the opposite end of the spectrum, I fell in love with a 1970s lampshade covered with NFL logos, that’s probably not worth much at all, but it gives me such joy.
What are your best tips for shopping a flea market?
Well it depends on your goal. If you’re looking for a specific item, go early in the day. If you’re going to be inspired, just wander—drift, poke around and discover new things. If you want to save money, go late and don’t be afraid to negotiate. Be there when dealers are ready to pack up for the day—the less they have to lug home the better, so they can be more eager to unload their goods, meaning the greater chance of you scoring an awesome deal.
Are you a fan of refurbishing or up-cycling flea market items?
Absolutely! Part of the fun of flea marketing is the fact that it’s eco-conscious and sustainable. I’m in the process of embroidering an old army jacket with tons of crazy and colorful designs.
Any favorite flea markets?
California has some fantastic markets. Both the Rose Bowl and Melrose Trading Post in Los Angeles are always worth a visit, and the Alameda Point Antiques Faire in Oakland is a perennial favorite. It’s held on a former airport runway in San Francisco Bay, and half the fun is just spending the day in such a relaxing setting. Another favorite is the Round Top fair, held twice yearly in central Texas. It’s a market that runs along a rural country road through a series of small towns between Houston and Austin, and it’s a picker’s paradise. And of course, the Brooklyn Flea! The selection is consistently top notch, and the prices are always fair.
Want to learn more about Gigi’s style? Check out her tips for summer packing and denim OOTD!
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