LAUNE x Wishlist Vintage
There's something special about a piece that has already lived a life before finding its way to you. Behind Wishlist Vintage is founder Nikolina, whose thoughtful eye for timeless style has shaped her destination for curated vintage. Drawn to pieces with lasting quality and character, she approaches vintage with an appreciation for craftsmanship, individuality, and the thrill of discovering something truly special. Below, get to know the person behind the curation, from what inspires her to her favorite corners of New York and the vision she's building for Wishlist Vintage.
1. Tell me about yourself and Wishlist Vintage. How was it created and what inspired the name?
Hi! I’m Nikolina, the founder of Wishlist Vintage. Wishlist is a curated collection of designer vintage shoes, bags, clothing, and accessories, all thoughtfully selected with an emphasis on timeless style and quality. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and knew I wanted to lean into that and create something of my own. I found myself spending my free time searching for and admiring beautiful vintage pieces, so it was a natural next step to bring this curation to life. When it came to choosing a name, I went with one of the first ideas that came to mind. Everyone has a wishlist and mine is constantly evolving. Whether it’s my list of dream items I hope to add to my own collection, my personal or work-related goals, my birthday gift inspo list, I’m constantly adding to them. After getting a name in place, I taught myself how to use Shopify overnight and set out the very next morning to source my very first piece.
2. What is the LAUNE (mood) of Wishlist Vintage?
I’d say the mood of Wishlist Vintage is playful, opulent, classic, and dreamy.
3. What inspires you?
I draw inspiration from all over, but most of it comes from my environment and the people around me. I’ve always been drawn to beautiful spaces, whether it’s a thoughtfully designed interior or a city street that make you feel energized just by walking down it. I love taking inspiration from my go-to style icons, but just as often, I find it simply by people-watching in NYC.
4. How do you source your pieces?
I source my pieces from all over the world! I love the thrill of the hunt and know a piece belongs in my curation when it gives me that giddy, heart skips a beat feeling.
5. Walk me through your perfect day in New York.
My perfect day starts with enjoying my morning coffee at home (I’m my favorite barista) and taking a quick walk on the West Side Highway. Then I’d head to Soho to take a class at Natural Pilates before meeting a friend for lunch at Sant Ambreous in the West Village. In the afternoon, I’d either go to Rescue Spa or the spa at Hotel Chelsea for a facial, then get ready for dinner at a new restaurant. Right now, Cleo is at the top of my list.
6. What do you love about New York?
There’s really no place like New York. I’m someone who’s very go go go and thrive off of the energy here, but I also love that I can slow down and take moments to recharge. It’s the only place that makes me feel so at home, inspired, and motivated all at the same time.
7. Which New York neighborhood has the best style?
One of my favorite neighborhoods to people watch is on the Upper East Side. There’s a little bit of everything and I’ve seen some of the chicest looks walking down Madison Ave.
8. What’s next for you and Wishlist Vintage?
I truly can’t believe how much Wishlist has grown in just 9 months. I know it’s just the beginning and I’m so excited for all that’s ahead. Being a part of vintage markets and shows across the country has been so fulfilling and I can’t wait for our next one in NYC this fall :)
Rapid Fire:
1. Describe your style in three words.
Polished, effortless, feminine.
2. AM or PM skincare?
PM. Will never skip my nighttime routine.
3. Favorite brand?
Been living in my Doen pieces all summer long.
4. If you could only wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?
Probably Khaite or the Row.
5. Dream collab?
Doing a pop up at Bergdorf Goodman would be an actual dream.
6. What are three staple items that every closet should have?
A good-fitting pair of jeans that you’ll reach for day and night, a crisp white tee, and a high quality outerwear piece like a leather coat/jacket.
7. Favorite place?
Paris has my heart.
8. Favorite restaurant in New York?
Pastis! A close second is 12 Chairs.
9. Favorite drinks spot in New York?
Bar Titsou and Primo’s have the best martinis in the city
10. Favorite style icon?
Picking one is impossible! Morgan Stewart can do no wrong in my eyes but I also always draw inspo from classic muses like CBK and Jackie O. The list goes on.
11. Favorite movie?
Pretty Woman
12. What are you loving right now?
Writing! Whether it’s jotting down my goals or posting on Substack, it’s something I’ve felt really drawn to lately.
LAUNE x Wishlist Vintage
LAUNE x Wishlist Vintage
