From Storage to Storefront: How a Mother-Daughter Duo Turned Forgotten '80s Sportswear into a Vintage Goldmine

Scottlynn Krause and her mother didn’t just stumble upon a business opportunity. They practically tripped over it in the form of a jam-packed warehouse in Sacramento. This wasn’t your typical storage find, it was a treasure chest filled with pristine '80s sportswear acquired from a family friend, untouched for decades. With a 16-day window to clear it out, they launched CS80 Vintage, an online store with a fresh take on forgotten fashion.

Navigating through 10,000 pairs of shoes, 25,000 hats, and countless other items from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma, they crafted a strategy that married nostalgia with modern retail trends. Their first sale kicked off at a flea market in 2022. Fast forward, they're dropping curated selections twice a week on their website, focusing on quality over quantity. Imagine sifting through a goldmine of Starter jackets and unique finds like original Run-DMC pieces. That's their world now.

But it's not just about selling vintage. For Scottlynn and her mom, each item tells a story, sparking nostalgia and joy in customers who find pieces from their youth. They're not just moving inventory, they're reviving memories. Even Hollywood took notice, with a load of their clothing making its way to a “Stranger Things” x Target shoot. The buzz isn’t just about sales, it's connecting with a community.

Here's the thing. While cashing in on the '80s resurgence is exciting, it's about legacy too. They aim to honor Franz, the original owner, by keeping the spirit of the era alive. They’re exploring ways to use deadstock to create new vintage-inspired products. The meta shifted, and they’re riding that wave with passion and a touch of retro flair.