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Nostalgia is a powerful force, and it's evident in every corner of By My Old School, a vintage goods store in the heart of Commonwealth. Founded by Rebecca Wong and her father, Winston Wong, in 2011, this maximalist haven of vintage collectibles exudes a charm that speaks to the heart of anyone searching for a touch of bygone eras.

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A Hobby Turned Business

Rebecca and Winston's love for vintage items runs deep, with Winston having started collecting before the store's inception. Their shared passion for vintage collectibles drove them to turn their weekend garage sales into a full-fledged business in 2011. 

 

Still working full-time as an interior design writer, Rebecca took up the challenge of setting up the store with her father.

 

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“It was difficult juggling work and this side hustle,” she mentions. “So our opening hours were limited to weekends and appointments only.”

 

Fast-forward to 2018, and By My Old School has relocated to its current home at Commonwealth Drive, becoming a hub for all things vintage.

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Second-hand, Second Chance

At By My Old School, sustainability is key. The store sources pre-loved items from second-hand dealers and individuals looking to sell off their families' memorabilia, reducing waste and contributing to the circular economy. 

 

“Local things are easier to resonate with; Singapore and Malaysia are our common picking grounds,” Rebecca explains. “I’d like to think that what's in the shop is waiting for new owners.” 

 

Rebecca's philosophy is simple - find a new use for everything before throwing it away. However, she is mindful not to be too pushy with this agenda, opting to let customers discover the value of upcycling themselves.

 

“We cannot be preachy about sustainability; customers need to connect with the item before they consider purchasing it,” she states. 

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Lessons from the Olden Days

Beyond upcycling, Rebecca has found that certain items from the past offer their own innovative insights into sustainability. She cites the beloved Kopi-Gong, or coffee in a can, as one example. Popular in the 60s, a time before the emergence of takeaway cups, the solution of Kopi-Gong showed a remarkable level of resourcefulness and sustainability.

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In Short Supply

Under the advent of retail therapy and fast fashion trends, Rebecca worries that this will contribute to a “buy-and-throw-away culture”. 

 

“Nowadays, everyone discards their old or broken items. They don’t consider selling or repairing them,” says Rebecca. 

 

As a result, sourcing certain vintage items has become a significant challenge for the store, making it increasingly difficult to sell them.

 

“I can only rent out some items like the vintage microphone because I don't know when the next one will come along,” reveals Rebecca.

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The Past Designing the Present

The vintage goods at By My Old School have a timeless appeal, resonating with customers of all ages. While the store attracts many older patrons, who form robust connections to its artifacts, Rebecca has also noticed an increasing popularity amongst youths seeking to bring an antique ambience to their home.

 

“It’s easy to find vintage furniture, but you need the small details and decorations to truly bring out the vintage aesthetic,” she says. 

 

Rebecca adds that in a market dominated by mass production, the unique history and personality of vintage items can supplement any home with a distinctive flair. This also extends the life of these collectibles through upcycling.

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A Business turned Sustainable Vintage Emporium

By My Old School is more than just a vintage goods store - it's a celebration of history, heritage, and the beauty of upcycling. Through its commitment to sustainability and appreciation for vintage items, the store is a testament to the power of nostalgia and the enduring appeal of vintage goods. 

 

For those seeking to infuse their home with a sprinkle of vintage allure or simply want to cherish the past and its timeless treasures, a visit to By My Old School is not to be missed.