NATALIE LINDSEY

When it comes to fashion gigs, Natalie Lindsey has run the gamut—design, PR, styling, bridesmaid dresses (long story), even schlepping garment bags at NYFW. But it was vintage that stuck. Now she runs her own newly-opened shop in Houston and spends her days hunting for treasures, designing one-of-a-kind pieces, and building a world that feels wholly her own. Her work is intuitive, personal, a little scrappy, and always spot on. 

Read her full feature and find out what her “white whale” of vintage is. Hint: it “ looks like it belonged to a very hot stylish cowboy in 1984.”

Natalie Lindsey Collage

Welcome to Babes in HART – let’s say we just met at a dinner party. How would you introduce yourself?

Hey, I’m Natalie. I have a vintage shop in Houston, and you can also find me in Round Top three times a year. I’ve worked in pretty much every corner of the fashion world—design, styling, retail, PR, bridesmaid dresses (don’t ask), even schlepping garment bags as a NYFW production assistant. I also spent time at What Goes Around Comes Around in New York, which is where I first realized my deep, slightly obsessive love for old stuff.

I’ve always loved creating—whether it’s designing, curating, or making something beautiful out of what’s been overlooked. I also design one-of-a-kind pieces using antique linens and vintage quilts. 

At its core, our jewelry is about authenticity—wearing what reflects who you really are and tells your story. That said, what lights you up? 

Honestly? Making things. Curating, designing, pulling together pieces that tell a story—whether it’s an outfit, a space, or a collection. I love the mix of beauty and imperfection, and I’m always chasing that feeling when something just clicks. Also: a good estate sale and an iced latte. Preferably at the same time.

You just opened your own vintage store in Houston (congrats!!). What’s one thing, good or bad, that you’ve learned about business/entrepreneurships so far?

Thank you! One thing I’ve learned? You’re never really “done.” There’s always one more thing to fix, source, post, ship, or figure out. It’s equal parts exciting and mildly unhinged. But honestly, building something that’s fully mine—even the messy parts—has been worth it.

What are you aspiring to lately? Personally or professionally?

Lately I’m aspiring to do a little less, but do it better. More space to create, more time for the good stuff—family, art, inspiration. Less scrambling, more intention. We’ll see how that goes.

Natalie Lindsey Collage

What vintage pieces or styles are hot right now? What trends are you seeing? 

I’ll be honest—I’m not big on chasing trends. I’m much more interested in personal style and pieces that stand the test of time. Give me a great vintage Ralph Lauren jacket, an old LL Bean field coat, anything striped or the perfect pair of worn-in Levis over whatever’s trending any day. That said, I’m not immune to a moment—if it feels right, I’ll mix it in. Lucky for me, Western wear is still having a serious comeback, which just happens to align perfectly with half my collection. 

Your signature pieces are called the “Yo-yo,” where did the inspiration strike for this fun design?

I found a vintage yo-yo vest and thought, okay, this could be something. Not long after, my friend Maggie lent me a skirt with a similar look—but I took out the lining. I wore it in Round Top, and threw on some bike shorts under. People stopped me nonstop. The next day, one of my clients came back with a yo-yo quilt she’d found in Marburger (hi, Ann!). I made three long skirts from that first quilt, and they sold in minutes. After that, it took on a life of its own.

Tell us your favorite local haunts in Houston. What’s a perfect day in the city?

Start with a coffee at La La Land, then a workout at Training Mate if I’m feeling ambitious. Bebidas for lunch—smoothie, protein bowl, or maybe just an afternoon shaved ice.

Most days, you’ll find me at the shop. I really love being there. We call our little corner Persa Place—it’s like a mini Round Top meets Melrose Place, minus the drama. The shops are all tucked into what used to be St. Anne’s Priory, so it’s super charming and full of history.

My friend Brooke (Nan Collective) is right next door—we literally knocked down the wall between our shops so we could hang out more. She’s the queen of vintage Levi’s. Across the way is our friend Carla Valencia, who does the most incredible hand embroidery and customization, plus Magnolia Mercantile for hats and Lucky Gem for handmade leather goods. It’s the best little creative community.

If I sneak away, it’s usually for a spin through Foltz Fine Art or a drink at the Hotel Saint Augustine bar—especially on Drop the Needle Wednesdays. And if I’m really treating myself, it’s a burger and a martini at Hudson House, posted up at the bar.

Tell us about your HART pieces – what do the charms signify to you? Where are you excited to wear them?

I picked each charm because it felt personal. The poker chip spoke to me instantly—I’ve always kind of lived my life “all in.” I loved the Latin phrase Ad Eternum Infinitum—“to the eternal infinite”—which makes it feel like more than just a gamble. Sometimes it works out.

The Fortuna Horseshoe wasn’t just a Western nod (though obviously, I’m a sucker for that). I loved the message: fortune favors the bold. I’m a big believer in trusting your gut and not overthinking things—especially when it comes to risks.

The evil eye is for protection, obviously. Necessary when you’re doing your own thing. And the “M” is for my daughter, Margot—my daily reminder of what really matters.

THE GOOD STUFF

Favorite quote or personal mantra?

YOLO

A favorite place or two where you love to source vintage? Texas estate sales—especially the weird ones. Personal collections, The Guild Shop in Houston. Also a few secret spots I’ll never name because I’m not totally unhinged.

Favorite denim? Vintage Levi’s of course 

Favorite hotel? Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin—or the stunning new Hotel Marlene here in Houston, owned and beautifully designed by Lily of Lily’s Vintage Finds

Playlist or album? Pretty much anything from the 90s, and the Rolling Stones

Way to unplug? I swear I was a surf bum in another life—being in the ocean clears my head like nothing else. But since I can’t surf every day, it’s sitting outside with a cocktail, no phone, with friends that make me laugh and maybe a game of spades or gin rummy.  

Repeat beauty purchase? Salty face Tanning Water, and the t3 Airebrush is my holy grail

Best tip for vintage shopping? Don’t look for labels. I’m not a snob about much—except fabric. I go by look and feel first. If it doesn’t feel good, it’s a no-go. No matter what the tag says.

Your white whale of vintage? An early Ralph Lauren ranch coat or blanket jacket—the kind that looks like it belonged to a very hot stylish cowboy in 1984. 

The book that changed your life? Just Kids by Patti Smith. Made me feel okay about being broke, creative, and slightly feral in my 20s.