Isabella Tesler 

How did you discover RIXO? 

I first came across RIXO a few years ago when I spotted photos from one of their London Fashion Week presentations. Naturally, I was hooked! It was wonderfully wearable, perfectly vintage-inspired – and so me! I’ve always struggled to find modern brands that match my aesthetic. I love that RIXO has beautiful pieces, great quality and ethics as a brand and truly values and spotlights their community.

What made you take the leap to start Lucky Charm Vintage? 

I started collecting vintage pieces as a young teen. I’d sell a piece here and there to fund my next find, and, well, things sort of spiralled from there! By 2022, I knew it was time to take the plunge and go full-time. Running a small business in today’s economy is no walk in the park – some days are really tough – but leaving my corporate life behind to fully focus on Lucky Charm has been the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve never felt more fulfilled. My passion for what I do and the incredible people I’ve met along the way keep me motivated every single day. As a small business owner you wear all the hats, and the work never really stops but honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Can you tell us a little about how you source, mend and sell your vintage? 

Sourcing vintage is truly part treasure hunt, part detective work and it’s one of the absolute highlights of what I do! I spend a lot of time traveling across the UK – digging through auctions, house clearances, markets, you name it – always on the lookout for those one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s a LOT of driving, countless cups of coffee, and more than a few ridiculously early mornings, but there’s nothing quite like the thrill of uncovering something extraordinary. These days, it’s getting harder and harder to find true vintage, but it’s a habit I can’t quit!

Once I’ve found a piece, the next step is giving it the love and care it deserves. Some items just need a little TLC – a small mend, a good soak, or replacing a button or two – while others require the full works.

I want to honour each piece's history, and sharing that with my customers is what makes vintage so special. Whether in person or online, I strive for each item to connect with the person who’s meant to wear it next – and that’s the real magic of vintage.

WHAT’S YOUR BEST career advice? 

My top piece of career advice, especially as a vintage dealer, is to stay true to your passion and always trust your eye. The vintage world is all about unearthing hidden gems and if you truly love what you do, that excitement will naturally shine through. And never stop learning! Staying curious about the stories and the context behind the clothes will only make you a better curator.

What has been your proudest moment to date? 

Working with RIXO on this pop-up has genuinely been my proudest moment. As both a customer and lover of the brand, it has been a dream to collaborate.

I’m also incredibly proud of the various TV shows, films and theatre productions I’ve sold to over the last two years. Every time I see one of my pieces on screen or on stage it’s a total ‘pinch me’ moment. One of the highlights was watching Joey King wear a selection of 1940s pieces from my collection in ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ on Disney+. That was definitely a surreal and proud moment!

Who’s your ultimate style icon? 

It’s hard to pin down just one, but I’d have to say Jane Birkin. Another favourite would be Florence Welch – now that's a wardrobe I’d love to rifle through! I also find endless inspiration in the starlets of 1940s and 1950s cinema. I love watching classic films; the wardrobes are always fabulous.

WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF VINTAGE YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT? 

Definitely a 1930s slip dress. The first time I slipped one on, I was just wowed – there's something truly remarkable about how they make you feel. Nothing embodies femininity quite like this; it captures the essence of old Hollywood glamour. Plus, nothing feels more fabulous than tottering around my flat in heeled bedroom slippers, wearing a 30s slip, sipping a cup of tea and indulging in a nice chocolate biscuit!