What inspired you to start Tales of Endearment?

After fashion week/March 2010, I had a bit of down time so I started thinking of ways to occupy my time. You can only read so many books or browse the internet for so long. I thought I should start a blog. I came up with the name first. Then it was just a matter of finding an angle, a subject I would be passionate enough to write about on a regular basis. I was researching vintage on Ebay a lot at the time and saw all these amazing clothes and accessories and thought: there must be a way to show these to the world. I can’t buy everything – some of it not the right size or too expensive or, hello, no more room in my wardrobe! – but maybe I can inspire other people (especially designers) with my finds. And then one day it hit me: I should write a blog about vintage! The rest is history.

Of all the cities you have traveled to what is your favorite city for vintage shopping?  Do you have a favorite store in that city?

This is a hard question. I can find a great place in every city I travel to.

I love New York because the demand/supply is very high and vintage is as accessible as ever. Vintage stores keeps popping up (actually the past 2 years a few have disappeared due to the economic down turn…) and we have the best fairs, markets and shows in the country. My favorite designer stores are Marlene Wetherell’s and New World Order. My favorite low-key store is Fluke.

Palm Springs is the best for thrifting! It is so cheap and fun. My favorite store there is Resale Therapy.

What is life like as a model caster?

Casting is a fun job. I work with young, beautiful people every day and can pretty much handle a casting from anywhere in the world on my laptop. Give me a phone and a computer and I get you your models! Even pool side. I love working with different clients who have different wishes or work in different formats. The model agents have all become my friends over the years, so phone conversations are not necessarily rigid and hardball. I love my job, and that’s what matters most.

Who are your favorite models? (past or present)

Some of my favorite girls are Marieke Leroux, Anais Pouillot, Sophie Srej, Amanda Norgaard, Julija Step, Daphne Groeneveld, Marina Perez, Maria Carla Bosconi, Anja Rubic, Abbey Lee Kershaw…

When you think of all the shoots and shows you have worked on, what are you most proud of or which one stands out the most in your memory?

My favorite shoots were the Rocawear campaigns. There was so much going on on set! Celebrities, helicopters, snowmobiles, little kids, extras, sports stars… So much fun!

Any embarrassing or funny Fashion Week stories?

There’s always the little hiccup here and there but embarrassing, not really… Castings during show season are pretty stressful. There’s not really much time for fun and games. We try to stay as cool and professional as possible because every little detail counts.

What was your most extravagant vintage purchase?

I think my Alaia dress. That was around $800 I think.

What is the most precious thing in your closet? (vintage or new item).

I have a black Balenciaga party dress that is priceless. I paid a lot for it but so far it’s incredibly useful and appropriate for any fashionable occasion. Never outdated, never conspicuous. And it’s so soft it feels good to wear it as well.

Who are your favorite brands right now?

Balenciaga, Mark Fast, Peter Pilotto, Chanel, Adam, J.Crew, Miu Miu…

What is your fix of the moment? (Trend, designer, or item you reallllly want)

I really want a classic, black, padded Chanel bag with silver chain. And I need that Isabel Marant multi-colored fur. That would really make me happy. 

What is your Pinkclouds Pick?!

All the really cool furs!

Check out Natalie's vintage blog Tales Of Endearment Feb

Photo courtesy of Tommy Ton Style.com