Backroom Vintage: Buffalo’s Hidden-Gem Vintage Store
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Buffalo’s Allen Street, Backroom Vintage isn’t just a store; it’s a time capsule. For owner Jordan Massimi, his shop is a culmination of a lifelong passion: a place where the memories of past decades ring through perfectly picked finds.
“Fashion comes and goes,” Jordan says, a view that perfectly encapsulates the cyclical nature of style and the enduring allurement of vintage.
Jordan’s journey with vintage clothing began during his childhood, fueled by a fascination with iconic magazines like Vogue Bazaar and a deep admiration for the strength and style that arose out of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. This fascination, paired with the inspiration derived from the women in his life, has fused and turned into the shop we now know and love. Jordan’s passion has blossomed and transformed into Backroom Vintage: a haven for all those seeking unique, high-quality pieces with a story to tell.
The store’s appeal goes beyond a specific age range, attracting a diverse crowd.
“All ages are seen in the store, ranging from 10 to 30 years old and 40-60 years old,” Jordan explains, highlighting the universal allure that vintage fashion has. From trendy teens to vintage and antique lovers, Backroom Vintage has something for everyone.
Pricing at Backroom Vintage is a conscientious process, reflecting the value of each individual piece.
“Condition, brand, quality, product, and label,” Jordan lists, emphasizing the significance of these factors in determining a fair price. He also utilizes digital platforms like Depop as well as a recently launched website to expand the store’s outputs.
Beyond clothing, Backroom Vintage offers a delightful array of accessories including necklaces, charms, rings, as well as house and glassware.
At the heart of Backroom Vintage is Jordan’s desire to empower his customers.
“When wearing pieces from my store, I want them to feel comfortable; all are welcome… LGBTQ+. I want my pieces to make the customers feel powerful. Don’t let the clothing wear you. You wear the clothing.” This philosophy underscores the importance of authenticity and self-expression through fashion.
Jordan credits the women who shaped his youth as his primary source of inspiration. Their strength and style resonate deeply in the carefully curated collection at Backroom Vintage. Separately, he harbors a collector’s fairytale dream: to discover an authentic 1950s Christian Dior piece…a testament to timeless elegance. When sourcing items for his shop, however, quality reigns supreme.
‘Quality.’
He emphasizes a simple word that encapsulates his dedication to providing customers with only the finest vintage finds.
For those beginning in the vintage world, Jordan offers a crucial tip:
“Always know what you’re looking at.”
Having this thought process as you go to vintage/thrift stores empowers shoppers to make informed choices, being able to truly appreciate the unique narrative that is made into each piece of clothing.
More than just a retail space, Backroom Vintage stands as a vibrant tribute to the timeless allure of style and the captivating stories that the clothing holds. In an era dominated by fleeting trends, Jordan Massimi and his shop offer a compelling alternative – a medium where history and contemporary style seamlessly intertwine.
Visit Jordan at Backroom Vintage at 497 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202.
