A NEW VINTAGE SHOP HAS HIT DOWNTOWN SUMMERVILLE AND IT IS A TREASURE TROVE OF TIMELESS STYLE
In an age where fast fashion dominates, there is a growing movement around clothes that tell a story. Vintage pieces that have stood the test of time beautifully and carry with them the character and nostalgia of decades past are not only sought after, but there’s a special thrill in discovering clip-on earrings reminiscent of your grandmother’s collection or slipping into a dress that feels like it belongs on a classic movie set.
In the heart of downtown Summerville, Retro FLY sits above its sister store, FLY Modern Apparel, offering a shopping experience that celebrates the lasting charm of vintage fashion. This isn’t your typical thrift or consignment store; it’s a thoughtfully curated journey through decades of fashion, featuring everything from 1950s swing dresses to 1970s maxi dresses and the shiny fabrics of the 1990s. Each piece holds a whisper of its past life – a silk tea dress that might have once danced in a ’60s jazz club or a leather clutch that accompanied the best parties in town.
The unique charm of Retro FLY comes from its owner, Margie Sutton, who has been inspiring Summerville’s fashion scene since opening her salon, MOD, in the early 2000s. Her passion for style began long before then.
“As a child, I loved any TV scene featuring a makeover or transformation. It always moved me,” Sutton recalls. “I started as a model at 19 and soon found myself styling trend boards in malls. I eventually earned my cosmetology license to do hair and makeup. I loved the creativity of styling even more than being in the spotlight myself as a model.”
Sutton handpicks every item for Retro FLY, sourcing from vintage markets and estate sales, and even including some of her own vintage wardrobe, showcasing her deeply rooted love for fashion.
One of the best things about this new shopping experience is the combination of FLY and Retro FLY which gives shoppers the opportunity to blend old and new styles, creating looks that are uniquely their own.
“Yes, that’s very intentional,” Sutton shares. “Vintage has always been a part of my life and a true passion. I love blending modern and vintage pieces.”
Bringing Retro FLY into the mix fulfilled Sutton’s long-held vision of merging hair, styling, and clothing into one cohesive offering.
“I’ve had this vision for years. When the upstairs of FLY became available I knew I wanted to secure it but it wasn’t clear at that time exactly what I would do with it. But God had a plan and one day it just came to me, it just clicked and I looked at my husband and said – “We’re going to open a vintage clothing shop.”
Beyond the curation, what sets Retro FLY and FLY apart from big retail stores is the sense of community it fosters.
“We have customers who have been with us for years and feel like friends and family,” Sutton shares. “I want this to be a place where mothers and daughters can shop together, finding pieces they love at affordable prices.”
Sutton’s love for community as well as fashion, combined with her instinctive business sense, and dedication to service has created a fashion hub of timeless and unique styles. Whether hunting that perfect piece or just browsing for inspiration, fashion lovers of all generations will find something that inspires them.
Next time you’re looking to enhance your wardrobe, visit Retro FLY, where history and style come together to create something timeless. AM
