“Never, ever, ever be basic for nobody, honey. Shine bright, let them burn.” — Chanel Ayan 🐆
Welcome to Velvet Leopard Vintage NYC, a passion project launched in 2026 as part of a fierce new beginning. I’m Jennifer, and my story started over ten years ago. It took a challenging, deeply transformative decade of stepping away, losing myself, and finding my way back to finally fulfill a promise to myself: landing right here in New York City.
Born in NY State, later living all over the country and now back in New York (in the city!), this move is a rewarding homecoming. I started quietly planning this midlife rebirth in 2024 with no roadmap—just a burning urge to make the second half of life extraordinary. Luck and a little persuasion brought my youngest son here with me, and now he’s building his own NYC future alongside mine.
What started a decade ago with live selling costume jewelry and mass-produced items quickly shifted when I realized my heart belonged to previously loved pieces. I live for the sustainability of resale, the unmatched craftsmanship of bygone eras, and the nostalgic character of vintage. But above all? The thrill of the hunt 🐆 is unmatched.
At Velvet Leopard, personal style always beats a passing trend. Fashion is how we express ourselves completely outside the cycle of what’s expected.
This launch is also a homage to my mother—my polar opposite, but the woman who taught me to love the hunt. She joyously filled her wardrobe with comfort clothes she picked up from her favorite thrift haunts and collected enough pre-loved books to create a library within the family home. She knew beauty and meaning never required a brand-new price tag. Proudly, Velvet Leopard officially opened its doors on what would have been her 73rd birthday.
We are officially alive. No basics allowed.
VELVET LEOPARD VINTAGE NYC
