Austin’s Vintage Expert Embraces the Art of Slow Shopping
Finding treasures with Katie Vincent McClure of local shops, Show and Tell Vintage & Potluck Vintage
In a world dominated by fast furniture and fleeting trends, Katie Vincent McClure has built a thriving career rooted in timelessness. As the owner of Show and Tell Vintage and the neighboring Potluck Vintage, her work is proof of the enduring appeal of vintage furniture and the virtues of sustainable shopping.
“I’ve always been drawn to the charm of well-made, one-of-a-kind pieces,” shares McClure, reflecting on her path to becoming a curator of vintage treasures. What began as a passion for uncovering hidden gems in thrift stores and estate sales evolved into two carefully curated businesses. With her discerning eye, McClure offers collections that go beyond aesthetics to embody craftsmanship and utility.
Her fascination with interiors began early on by a blend of real-life curiosity and cultural influences.
“It’s been a lifelong obsession,” says McClure. “I would watch TV shows like ‘The Brady Bunch’ and find myself captivated by the house they lived in — every detail in the background. I’d be more focused on the interiors than the storyline.”
From the colors and shapes to the way furniture worked within a space, McClure’s early observations sharpened her understanding of design, a skill that has become central to her work today.
McClure describes her process of sourcing unique items as a project of patience and intentionality.
“Every piece has a story, and that’s what makes it special,” she says. When scouting for furniture, she often imagines the lives they’ve touched before they find their way to her. This philosophy drives her approach — connecting people with furniture that feels personal and meaningful.
To those new to vintage hunting, McClure offers practical advice for finding treasures and developing an eye for quality. “Start small, stay patient, and trust your instincts,” she encourages. She also recommends learning to recognize details that signal durability, such as solid wood construction, dovetail joints and original hardware. “Vintage shopping can feel intimidating at first, but the more you handle pieces, the more you understand what to look for.” For McClure, part of the fun lies in the unexpected. “The best finds often come when you least expect them,” she adds.
While McClure’s work is about curating beautiful spaces, it is also deeply rooted in sustainability.
“Fast furniture is like fast fashion,” she explains. “It’s cheap, mass-produced and designed to be disposable. Vintage pieces, on the other hand, are built to last and carry a soul that mass-market items simply don’t have.”
By rescuing and reviving pre-loved items, she helps reduce waste and offers an alternative to the disposable culture that permeates much of the furniture industry.
McClure is an advocate for what she calls “slow shopping.” She encourages people to take their time furnishing their homes, focusing on acquiring pieces that resonate with them emotionally and functionally.
“When you slow down and invest in pieces with history, you’re not just filling a room — you’re building a home with intention,” she says. For McClure, this intentionality aligns perfectly with the idea of living sustainably. “Vintage shopping isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making a choice to value craftsmanship, support small businesses and reduce environmental impact.”
Beyond her work as a seller, McClure is eager to educate others on the importance of choosing vintage. She frequently shares tips and insights on her platforms, aiming to make vintage shopping approachable and enjoyable for everyone. “You don’t have to be an expert to start. Just go out there, explore, and let yourself fall in love with pieces that speak to you,” she says.
“Shop slow, shop smart and shop sustainably,” McClure says. Through her dedication and passion, McClure has shown that embracing the old isn’t just a way to preserve history — it’s a meaningful path to shaping a more intentional and sustainable future.
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