The New York Archive isn’t about nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. Focused on vintage clothing and collected objects, the brand offers a thoughtful take on what it means to archive. Each piece feels specific and intentional—nothing random.

Below, Gianna, founder of The New York Archive shares more on sourcing with intention, documenting everyday history, and what draws them to objects that hold time in subtle ways.

1. Tell me about yourself and The NY Archive. How was it created?

Hi! I’m Gianna, the founder of The NY Archive—a designer vintage brand based in NYC that specializes in sourcing rare and fabulous shoes from around the world. I’m a born-and-raised New Yorker, and I run the brand out of my childhood apartment on the Upper East Side, now transformed into The NY Archive HQ and showroom (my old bedroom? It’s home to over 200 pairs of vintage designer heels).

The NY Archive is a reflection of me. It’s a living journal told through shoes—my personal style, the women who raised me, and my Upper East Side upbringing are all stitched into the brand. Each piece I curate is chosen with that in mind.

A major turning point was when I was approached by Phia (founded by Phoebe Gates and Sophia Kianni) to be one of the first 50 small businesses on their platform. That moment gave me the push to leave my corporate job and pursue The Archive full time. A few days later, I snagged the last spot in the Manhattan Vintage Show, and not long after, debuted the brand on the runway during NYFW with Mila Sullivan. Nearly six months later, I curated all the shoes for Tyler McGillivary’s debut runway show. Each milestone felt like a scene out of a movie—chaotic, magical, and completely meant to be.

2. What inspired the name of The NY Archive?

The Archive is a living journal told through shoes—each pair a memory, a tribute, a piece of my story. Rooted in my New York upbringing, shaped by personal style, and deeply influenced by the women who raised me, it’s more than a store. It’s an archive—of moments, movement, and meaning.

3. What is the LAUNE (mood) of The NY Archive?

Think early 2000s rom-com energy. Jenna Rink, Carrie Bradshaw, or Molly Gunn. It’s playful, nostalgic, and joyful. Every piece is chosen to celebrate individuality and the art of dressing up just because.

4. What do you love about The NY Archive?

I love how it’s become an extension of myself. It’s like if my pinterest board came to life and swallowed you whole. I’m proud that it makes designer fashion feel more accessible, curates joy, and offers a sustainable, ethical alternative to fast fashion.

5. What inspires you?

Movies, magazines, flea markets, traveling to my favorite places (Paris, obviously), photography, heirlooms, stealing from my mom’s closet, art galleries, the 90,000 photos on my camera roll, a messy bag, always carrying a green juice and a croissant (because balance), bodega flower shops, yellow taxis, my Pinterest board “Gi” with 1.5K pins of things that just feel like me—including ponyhair anything, pornstar martinis, The Met (I’m a member because museums matter), chic dogs, old shopping bags, cappuccinos after dinner, elaborate flower arrangements, handwriting, postcards, poetry, Warhol, needlepoint pillows, painted motorcycle helmets, engraved jewelry, sketches, messy bathroom sinks, vintage Chanel, black lacy lingerie, newspapers, silk pajamas, French fries, boldly painted rooms, beat-up Birkin bags, tan lines, spiral staircases, Pride & Prejudice, old cars, Central Park, lovers reading on the beach, loafers and socks (always), glossy lips and skin, the perfect emerald ring, steak au poivre, picnics, crown molding, room service, Vogue, Electric Cinema, The Paris, The Angelika, old Parisian ashtrays, fur coats, the perfect Brooklyn brownstone, messy clothes from painting, and red wine.

6. What’s next for The NY Archive?

You’ll just have to wait and see ;)

Rapid Fire:

1. Describe your style in three words:

Devil Wears Prada (opening).

2. Favorite piece from The NY Archive?

Mary Jane Manolos, not a shoe myth. We have them.

3. If you could only wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?

Vintage Chanel.

4. Dream collab?

The NY Archive x Edie Parker

5. What are three staple items that every closet should have?

Worn in vintage Chanel Ballet flats, the perfect pair of jeans, and a brown leather jacket.

6. Favorite place?

The NY Archive Showroom

7. Favorite restaurant in NYC?

Don't hate me – Cipriani Downtown has the best people watching

8. Favorite drinks spot in NYC?

Bar Penelope

9. Favorite style icon?

My mom – “the original it-girl.”

10. Favorite movie?

Gone Girl

11. What are you loving right now?

Physical media: magazines, vinyl records, polaroids, embroidered button downs, vintage makeup bags, painting, dewy makeup, beat up designer bags, and being totally yourself.