We had the good fortune of connecting with Tina Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tina, what makes you happy? Why?
Lifting others up brings me great joy! I find that society places a lot pressure on women and girls to look a certain way. It is an unrealistic goal and a totally contrived idea. Thank goodness, Me Too is happening – giving power back to women to express themselves freely and not feel pressure to be what others think they should be. Lots of women come into my shop feeling a little self conscious when it comes making fashion choices. I love helping them find their personal style and giving them the confidence to wear fun things. Fashion is all about being yourself. I get a great sense of accomplishment when a client leaves standing a little taller and more proud of who she is and how she presents herself. That’s a great day’s work for me!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Vintage is my passion and obsession! My heart flutters when I come across a fabulous vintage piece and get to hear the story of its’ provenance. Often times I get to meet the wearer of such pieces. Finding out the history of the garment, where it was worn and the personal story behind it brings me great joy. I love to share those tidbits with the next fashionista. These garments are such beautifully made treasures – they should be worn and continue on their fashion journey!
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Mark Grissom, son of late astronaut, Gus Grissom, second man in space. I was invited to see his mom’s stunning collection of clothing primarily from the 60’s and 70s. She was quite the fashion plate and such a strong lady. It was so cool to hear the space stories and get to see pics of his mom wearing some of her amazing fashion – they traveled the world and were icons of their day. I love it when history and fashion intersect. To get to hear the provenance of a piece and how it fits into history is beyond cool and fulfilling for me. Houston has incredible people with rich culture and heritage. They are happy to share their fascinating stories which I love.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh my, Houston has so many great spots! I would definitely take them to the Menil Collection- so incredible to think this jewel Museum is one of the very best in the world and we have it right here at our fingertips! Houston has many incredibly diverse, philanthropic people and the Menils were just that. Their personal art collection is on rotation for everyone to enjoy. It’s so incredible that they loved collecting amazing art and we all get to be a part of it~ such a gift and lovely legacy. I’d definitely stop by the Menil cafe for lunch on the patio – a divine setting in the heart of the city!
I’d certainly drop into the GUILD SHOP to peruse their glorious racks and shelves for fabulous cast offs! You never know what you’ll uncover and the thrill is always in the hunt. Many of the pieces in my home are from this famed cache box….. I love the volunteers and Gilbert, head of security is fabulous! Icing on the cake is your purchase benefits the elderly in need.
I’d have to have a cocktails and dinner on the patio of Hugo’s. Their authentic food, friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere will have you hanging for a while- Truly an authentic, relaxing place. Lunch or dinner at La Colonial is a fave for sure. I love the crisp white tablecloths and fabulous decor. I feel like I’m on a cool vacation in Europe when I’m there. Again, never rushed and always feels like I’ve been whisked away to a lovely locale far away. The cuisine is always super flavorful, pretty healthy and their presentation is superb. During covid, nab a table outside by a heater and enjoy a little people watching as a bonus.
Another fave for cool interior pieces is MAI- they always have something new and invigorating! The windows are so creative and I love to go there for eye candy, design inspiration and gifts, gifts, gifts.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Well the shoutout would go to my parents. They immigrated here from Liverpool, England in 1959. My dad was sponsored by a very kind Houston family who helped him gain his citizenship. He took that oath very seriously. My mom and dad are probably the most patriotic, hard working people I know. They taught me to respect others, treat people the way you want to be treated and to work hard for what you want. My dad was the first alien citizen in Texas to join the US Marines. He fought in Korea. It was not uncommon to hear Marine marching band music on a Sunday morning in my home growing up. He always said that Texas was full of very kind people, willing to lend a hand and help out in anyway. He’d traveled all over the world and this is where he decided to raise his family. I am eternally grateful to have grown up here.
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