Tanya Ravichandran: The Vintage Fashion Aficionado with a Passion for McQueen and Demeulemeester

Tanya Ravichandran, a New York-based photographer and content creator, has turned her obsession with vintage fashion into an impressive collection, focusing primarily on renowned designers Alexander McQueen and Ann Demeulemeester. Each morning, before her coffee ritual, Ravichandran dives into numerous resale websites, determined to unearth unique items that resonate with her artistic vision.

With over 1 million followers on TikTok, Ravichandran shares her eclectic wardrobe, boasting more than 400 pieces from McQueen and over 200 from Demeulemeester. While she has been collecting fashion for a decade, her intense focus on these designers has only intensified in the past three years. "It’s become quite an obsession, and I’ve really refined how to collect; it’s easier to collect when you’re hyper-focused," she explains.

Ravichandran's admiration for McQueen stems from his ability to weave romantic narratives through fashion. "Every McQueen show had its own little world, and each of his models were characters with stories," she reflects, drawing parallels to her own style. Among her prized possessions are a striking leather bondage-style jacket from McQueen's spring 2003 collection and a corset from the fall 2002 runway, famously walked by Adriana Lima.

In contrast, her attraction to Demeulemeester comes from the designer's approach to femininity. "She was making women’s clothes for women," Ravichandran notes, emphasizing the empowerment she feels when wearing Demeulemeester's pieces. One standout item in her collection is a vest from Demeulemeester’s spring 1991 show, a piece she treasures for its unique history.

Finding these rare items is no simple task, and Ravichandran has mastered the art of vintage collecting. She advises aspiring collectors to arm themselves with knowledge about specific collections, focus on one or two designers, and check resale platforms diligently. "Be so freaking crazy and check the internet as soon as you wake up," she suggests, underscoring the effort required to secure coveted pieces.

Ravichandran has recently showcased her collection in exhibitions, including one at 313 New York, where she brought her favorite items into the spotlight. "We should democratize clothing, and people should be allowed to see and wear vintage clothing," she asserts, aiming to share her passion rather than hoard it.

As she continues to expand her collection, Ravichandran looks to delve into even more high-fashion territory, considering pieces that defy conventional wearability. One elusive item on her wish list is a rare McQueen piece from the 1990s that features real locks of hair in its label. Despite a near-miss with a seller in France, Ravichandran remains undeterred in her quest for unique fashion treasures.

Source: www.vogue.com