Styled by Place: A Conversation with Jenny of The Motley Vintage
There are some people whose style feels collected rather than constructed — shaped slowly by place, memory, texture, and instinct. Jenny of The Motley Vintage is one of those people.
Based in Venice, California, but deeply informed by her East Coast roots, Jenny’s approach to dressing feels both effortless and deeply personal. Vintage isn’t just something she wears — it’s part of how she sees the world: worn-in, storied, soulful, and entirely one of a kind.
We sat down with Jenny to talk about her start in fashion, the styling advice she swears by, what inspires her daily, and how she’s been wearing her Bird of Flights lately.
How did you get your start as a stylist and vintage collector?
“I’ve been in the fashion industry for over 30 years as merchandiser, buyer, stylist, boutique owner and now vintage dealer.
I worked retail at a little hippie leather store in my hometown of Newport, Rhode Island as a kid and discovered my passion for dressing people and mixing preppy and bohemian aesthetics. I’m lucky to have found my calling so young!
The words ‘one of a kind’ are music to my ears! I’m in love with both the story and the patina of a great well-worn and well-loved vintage piece.”
omething deeply recognizable in Jenny’s style philosophy — the idea that the best pieces carry a life within them already. Nothing feels too precious or overthought. Just honest, lived-in beauty layered with intention.
If you were giving your best friend three styling tips, what would they be?
“That’s easy!
- don’t pay attention to sizes
- always size up
- if it doesn’t feel like you, don’t wear it”
What inspires you daily?
“I’m forever inspired by my East Coast preppy roots and the bohemian energy of the West Coast, specifically Venice where I live. I’m inspired daily by a deep gratitude that I get to do what I love for a living, in a home I love waking up in with a partner who is as cool as he is kind (check him out @beauchamping). That appreciation really allows the creative brain to function, and that’s inspiring!”
Tell us how you style your Bird of Flights
“I’m definitely a boot girl, I wear them straight through the summer! And I typically only wear vintage boots, but they can get a little clunky in the warmer months with dresses and flowier pieces.
The Ojai boot has serious vintage vibes but is super lightweight and feels like a slipper!! And they literally go with everything, from sweats to bloomers to dresses! I’m in love.”
The way Jenny styles her Ojais feels exactly like the Bird of Flight spirit — ease without sacrificing character. Pieces that feel timeless, lived-in, and meant to move through real life with you.
You can explore more of Jenny’s world and beautifully curated vintage collection at The Motley Vintage. Shop the Ojai here.
