2025/05/10 20:14
Introducing Akane Sato
owner, merchandiser and stylist
flemington vintage
From Melbourne to the World: The Story Behind flemington vintage
Hello, I’m Akane Sato, the founder and curator of Flemington Vintage.
Flemington Vintage is more than just an online boutique for vintage jewelry—it’s a personal journey that began in Australia, was shaped in Japan, and continues to grow through the inspiration I find in Europe and beyond.
A Childhood Surrounded by Stories
I grew up in Melbourne, where weekends were often spent volunteering at local church charity shops. These spaces—filled with secondhand clothes, forgotten treasures, and vintage jewelry—taught me that every item has a story.
I still remember watching vintage shop owners come in, searching carefully through boxes, looking for hidden gems. Back then, I didn’t realize I was absorbing the language of vintage—the weight of materials, the quiet sparkle of aged rhinestones, the joy of finding something truly one-of-a-kind.
That sensibility—of appreciating the past while curating for the present—continues to guide Flemington Vintage today.
Discovering Vintage in Tokyo
When I moved to Tokyo, I was surprised by how beautifully preserved vintage clothing was in Japan. The sizing, condition, and attention to detail were impressive—but I noticed something was missing: accessories that matched the elegance of the clothing.
I found myself thinking, “This dress would be perfect with bold vintage earrings or a timeless brooch.”
That thought led to action. Drawing from my experience in Melbourne, I began sourcing accessories from Europe and Australia—pieces with artistry, history, and charm—and offering them online for kindred spirits who longed for something special.
A Universal Love for Stories and Beauty
What unites people from Seoul to Singapore, Hong Kong to Paris, Milan to Munich, is this: a deep appreciation for beauty with meaning. Whether you’re drawn to the soft gold tones of a French earring, the sculptural simplicity of a German brooch, or the joyful craftsmanship of an Italian piece, vintage accessories transcend trends—they speak to the soul.
In a world flooded with fast fashion and fleeting trends, I’m always moved by the customers who choose Flemington Vintage. They don’t just see a beautiful piece—they see the years it has lived, the hands that made it, and the possibility of giving it a new story.
What Lies Ahead
While Flemington Vintage specializes in jewelry, the dream extends beyond accessories. Through our Instagram and monthly newsletters, we explore vintage culture—how to live with beauty, with care, with depth.
The stories behind each piece, the European artists who shaped them, the cultural histories woven into them—all of it is part of what we offer.
Whether you're in Amsterdam or Taipei, Sydney or Seoul, I hope Flemington Vintage brings a quiet joy to your daily life, and helps you discover not just jewelry, but a sense of connection—across time, place, and imagination.
