Fast fashion websites allow us to explore different trends, but at what cost? Time Warp Boutique is just one business amongst others in Baton Rouge, including The Pink Elephantand Remember That’s Vintage, looking to bring back personal style while promoting sustainability. This local favorite vintage clothing store helps you express your individuality while combining unique retro pieces with the future of fashion.

DIG spoke with store owner Joshua Holder to discuss his take on the fast fashion epidemicand how Time Warp aims to make a difference. 

“Buying vintage is stylish. People who buy vintage have a voice, a clear vision of what makes them happy,” Holder said. “I knew I could make vintage fashion a modern movement by piecing together everyday staples and mixing them to create modern individualistic looks.”

For nearly 25 years, the store has offered apparel spanning the decades for curious minds and fashion fanatics. The team selects every piece with a careful eye. Holder’s most rewarding moments have come from helping his customers find clothing that speaks to their unique style. 

“Whenever I help someone fit into something special and boost their confidence, it makes me happy that I could do it and also save a garment and breathe new life into it,” he explained. 

Holder enjoys being involved in his customers’ important moments, like weddings and parties, where Time Warp’s garments become a focal point in their special memories. Time Warp is more than a clothing store– it is an ode to individuality, offering everyone a way to explore their self-expression. Customers can shop the one-of-a-kind collection and find a newfound confidence, using the pieces to show their personalities through their style. 

Out With the Old, in With the New

Many of us have become more aware of our impact on the environment. The fashion industry contributes to an alarming amount of waste. Fast fashion creates a buy, wear, discard, and repeat cycle. Many people are looking to break the pattern and purchase more renewable textiles. Shopping vintage contributes to the local sustainability movement while also curating a closet that is truly your own. 

“Buying vintage reduces your waste into the environment by 100%,” said Holder. “It also is usually tailored better and made from quality fabrics that are made to last.”

According to Holder, Vintage clothing isn’t just eco-friendly. It’s also made from higher-quality material and more carefully crafted, as opposed to clothing produced in warehouses. Time Warp showcases each item’s unique craftsmanship, with all its pieces holding a bit of history and personality. Every item sold has a story. 

“People are moving into a new era of wanting one-of-a-kind garments so they can stand out,” Holder said.

The clothing at Time Warp counteracts the “herd mentality” big-name brands have recently pushed for in the market. Vintage wear eliminates the wastefulness of modern fashion by encouraging consumers to shop more mindfully. 

Time Warp’s Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Baton Rouge offers a distinct local culture. Many residents and local businesses are committed to keeping the city’s character and ecosystem thriving with the rising concern for our environment. 

“Baton Rouge is unique in ways where people are interested in keeping the beauty of our state preserved,” said Holder.“Being eco-friendly to our ecosystem is key.” 

The blend of style, art, and history is evident around Baton Rouge. Time Warp gives life to its eclectic, colorful vibe whenever you walk into the boutique. From embroidered, hand-sewn dresses to bell bottoms from the ’70s, the fabric represents our city.

According to Holder, whenever you buy an item from Time Warp, one less item gets sent to incinerators and clothing landfill sites. The styling possibilities within each garment are endless, and you’re also decreasing your carbon emissions into the environment. 

Aside from its timeless pieces, the store also celebrates local artists and brands. Shopping sustainably transcends fashion. Time Warp provides many local businesses the opportunity to promote their products. Shopping amongst the various products there helps keep Baton Rouge’s economy alive. 

Authentic Wear for All

While buying eco-friendly apparel is appealing, some misconceptions often deter people from taking action. A common concern is that vintage items are typically harder to care for.

“We do all of that work for you when you shop at Time Warp. We hand clean, wash, and dry clean every item before it goes out. Our selection is also heavily curated. We have hand-selected every garment and inspected its condition as well,” says Holder.

Another concern is that vintage items are less affordable than current pieces available online or in retail stores. When buying a new clothing item, customers must weigh the cost of their options. Whether you’re looking to reinvent your closet or shop more eco-friendly, Time Warp’s garments go beyond what’s on the rack. Every vintage purchase plays a part in protecting our environment. 

“What is the price of our future?  It is really up to the consumer and their conscience,” Holder said.   

Time Warp is located at 3001 Government St., in Baton Rouge. Their hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Click here for more on local Baton Rouge businesses looking to make a difference.