“IFellinLovehere”, a vintage secondhand boutique situated in the heart of Horizon City, has been in business since February 2023. The boutique brings the nostalgia of the 90s and Y2K fashion, with a curated collection of apparel capturing the essence of these defining eras.
Visionary entrepreneur, owner, and curator of “IFellinLovehere” Alexia Maldonado is also the creative force behind “Amaldeux,” a women’s ready-to-wear clothing brand established in 2022. Drawing inspiration from the iconic styles of the 70s and 90s, Maldonado’s designs embody a spirit of femininity.
Maldonado meticulously curates a collection that blends a selection of affordable and designer pieces, available at the boutique. A standout piece in Maldonado‘s curated collection at the boutique is a vintage Jean Paul Gaultier plaid blazer she purchased at a consignment shop in Los Angeles.
Maldonado launched the monthly “IFellinLovehere” markets back in June 2023, inspired by the desire to bring something new to Horizon City.
“As far as the markets are concerned, I was really motivated by the fact that there’s not really anything in this area over here,” Maldonado said. “All the markets that already exist in El Paso are more centrally located.”
As the sun sets over Horizon City, the night market comes to life. The event showcased a selection of vendors offering vintage women’s and men’s clothing, stylish shoes, unique stickers, local art, perfume, aromatic incense, and beautifully crafted crochet items. Each vendor was a treasure trove of creativity and passion, drawing in a diverse crowd eager to explore the vintage goods and local products.
Reina Moreno expresses how the market serves as a network for individuals to create new connections through their love for fashion as she also collaborates with her significant other.
Moreno enjoys being a vendor at these markets and deeply understands the impact of networking in her community, and believes the markets are a perfect opportunity for people to have fun and engage with the community.
“Some experience just having fun honestly and just meeting new people, I think that’s the biggest thing, networking and meeting,” said Moreno.
The night market, aside from an array of vendors, also invites visitors to explore its vintage boutique where the passion for fashion is palpable throughout, and where timeless statement pieces can be found.
IFellinLovehere works by appointment and offers unique and curated collections for fashion enthusiasts while mindful of inclusivity in sizing.
The event provided an opportunity for community enhancement by introducing diversity to the local area. Maldonado aims to create inclusive and captivating experiences for all while providing a platform for individuals to share and showcase their work and items.
“So, I find that by bringing it (the monthly markets) to this side of town, we have a lot more diversity and just like fun things to do for families and the younger crowd as well,” said Maldonado.
The IFellinLovehere markets fill a local void, allowing community members to enjoy different products and fun activities in their community. From fashion enthusiasts finding unique pieces to families taking a stroll, the market embodies the commitment to inclusivity and fun.
Maldonado’s vision and commitment go beyond commerce, it values creativity, sustainability, and personal expression through fashion. Not only does she preserve fashion styles but encourages a more mindful approach to fashion consumption.
Frida Acuna is the arts & culture editor and may be reached at [email protected].
