Fashion Fusion is more than a clever name...

June 8, 6:03 PMChicago Vintage Fashion ExaminerLindsey Reiser

Previous Next

3 comments Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Chicago Vintage Fashion Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

Fashion Fusion on Halsted

Most vintage enthusiasts would consider shopping for vintage gems a fun enterprise. However, it must be said that this kind of fun is something akin to the “thrill of the hunt,” like a seasoned entomologist in hot pursuit of the rare Amazonian dung beetle or something. However, upon entering Fashion Fusion on Halsted one gets the distinct impression that one is in for an entirely different breed of fun.

Owner Ogi and assistant Kelly both greet you with an exuberant “Hey!” which is both a little jarring and completely genuine. Insistent on creating vintage looks for their customers that are still contemporary and relevant, Ogi and Kelly both exude a vintage-enthusiasm-by-osmosis vibe, an attitude that infects unsuspecting shoppers. One customer was immediately taken with a black, white and brown silk dolmen-sleeve dress. While the client vogued in front of the mirror, Ogi found a matching leather belt to cinch the waist and suggested that the hem be taken up a notch, making sure her customer wasn’t walking the streets in a dated frock.

Though the shop is small, a surprisingly large amount of merchandise fits within the confines on color-categorized racks and carefully assembled displays. Ogi and Kelly take a Barney’s-esque approach to their windows, dressing them according to a creative weekly theme, this week’s being nautical.

Clothes are by and large from the 70’s and 80’s, replete with loud patterns, sequins, shoulder pads and the occasional romper or jumpsuit. Leather and suede pumps are available in every imaginable color, as are drawers and racks full of scarves. Glossy enamel earrings appear to be a store favorite, going for a price of buy two, get one free for $7. Matching necklace and earring sets are $25.

Dresses are equally reasonable, typically priced between $15 and $40. Though many are quintessentially outrageous 80’s fashion, many of the basics are in great condition, including a black button-down linen dress I picked up for myself. Other, more unique items – like a gold-trim military jacket, $25 – are obvious candidates for an outfit punch-up.

As one shops, it becomes apparent that the term “fusion” is used in the shop name for a reason. Dresses on the rack which I would ordinarily pass by, deeming them terminally dated, somehow take on new life with the right accessories in Ogi and Kelly’s displays. Seemingly, their advice is not to be taken lightly – perhaps Barney’s should give them a call.