Shop Dar Vtg exists to celebrate individuality through curated vintage that tells a story

WHO IS? WHAT IS? WHERE IS?
SHOP DAR VTG

I started this because I loved finding pieces you don’t see in regular stores anymore...
My love for vintage started in my mom’s closet—filled with ’90s mesh tops, mixed art prints, bold graphic logos, and kitten heels. Digging through her pieces made me realize how fashion can capture a moment in time, and how fun it is to wear something with a little history behind it.
I’m drawn to vintage for its quality, the kind of materials you just don’t find in fast fashion anymore. There’s also something exciting about researching the brands I come across, like uncovering little secrets from the past.
For me, vintage isn’t just about fashion, it’s a feeling. It reminds me of childhood summers: vibrant colors, lemonade stands, the buzz of a crowded mall, the comforting chaos of it all. It’s like stepping back into a time when everything felt brighter, bolder, and full of possibility.
Our collection pulls from all kinds of influences: edgy 90s grunge, the bold and playful energy of the early 2000s, classic European vintage, and honestly, just things we personally love. We hand-pick every piece with an eye for quality and character, because we believe clothes should say something, not just blend in.
We believe there’s a true need for individualism. In a world where mass-produced, neutral styles dominate the market, we remember a time when personal style included fun pops of colors, textures, and uniqueness. We miss that feeling. So we’re building a space that brings it back.
With vintage becoming more popular, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype. But we’re not here to ride a trend, we’re here to stay rooted in what makes secondhand special: pieces that are unique, sustainable, and full of history.
We’re proud to be based in the DMV, a place full of culture, creativity, and movement. The energy here matches what we’re trying to do: push fashion forward by looking back, and do it with intention.
So take your time and look around when you're shopping at our market events or online platforms. We hope you find something that speaks to you and feels like it was meant to be yours.
- Darlene <3

MEET THE TEAM
It takes a village—and we believe success is built together.

DARLENE YOU
FOUNDER & OWNER
Hello! I'm Darlene, the founder and owner of Shop Dar Vtg. What started as a weekend hobby during my college years quickly turned into something much more meaningful.
By day, I work as a consultant in tech, so blending structure with style has become second nature for me. My background in Information Systems, Marketing, and UX/UI design has shaped my ability to approach challenges with both critical thinking and creativity. With Shop Dar Vtg, I am able to lead with both my instincts and my vision.
This brand is my love letter to fashion and my childhood.
IG: @darlenesyou

MALEENA LIM
FINANCE & OPERATIONS
Hey, I’m Maleena! I help out with finance and market operations at Shop Dar Vtg. Growing up, Darlene, Davina, and I were always playing pretend—running our own shops, styling each other, or dreaming up our next big idea. It’s been so surreal watching those childhood dreams turn into something real.
Most people don’t know about my creative side, since my heart has always been in the medical field. I’m currently studying to become a radiologic technologist, and I truly love everything about it. Being involved with Shop Dar Vtg allows me the chance to tap into the creative side of myself, it’s the best of both worlds.
IG: @maleenalim

DAVINA LIM
EVENT SALES & INVENTORY COORDINATOR
Hi, I’m Davina! I handle event sales and inventory coordination at Shop Dar Vtg. I’ve always had a thing for organizing chaos—whether it was color-coding my closet or turning a mess into a system that made sense. So helping bring structure to hectic market days just fits.
I studied computer science in college and now work full-time in tech, but Shop Dar Vtg gives me a space to contribute to something creative and personal. It’s been so fun to be part of building something from the ground up, especially alongside people I’ve grown up with.
IG: @davina_djl