Daughter. Sister. Friend. Mother. Educator. This is Amanda.
She was my grandmother, my very first best friend. My road dog to Mississippi, Florida, and Texas. My teammate - and sometimes rival - in rousing games of Wheel of Fortune after school. My co-conspirator in capers for “something sweet.” Many parts of who I am… including these big ol’ legs… come from her.
In what would have been the 80th year of her life, I want you to help me celebrate her and a few of the things she left with me…
A love of fashion, a value of connection, and a motivation to inspire others.
The Branch.
I'm Shiquina. I'm a psychologist by day
(& evening)... and a creative to the core.
I love old things made new. I believe that sometimes you need to look back to see forward.
I can find the beauty in almost anything. I have my grandmother to thank for that.
I make joy my mission every day. Come share in my joy as we celebrate her through fashion.
I want to give you what Amanda gave me –
an appreciation for your beauty and what makes you uniquely you.
The Root.
The Logo.
The Pinetree: Pinetree Drive was her home and also my first ever home. Pinetree represents love and joy. I hope to bring you that same love and joy through fashion.
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The Pin: My grandmother taught tailoring & alterations at Bishop State Community College (formerly Carver State) until her retirement. The pin is an homage her profession and passion.
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The Colors: Our family is from an area of Mobile, Alabama called Touliminville, home of the Mighty Orange & Green Rattlers. It just felt right. “What about them colors?!”
The Mission.
Our motto is “Always a classic.”
I want to share classic yet unique vintage and vintage-inspired clothing and accessories with you, to honor the timeless beauty in every woman. I love vintage because it reminds me of the times I used to ramble through my grandmother's closets and drawers for things no one else was wearing. I also want to offer you as many plus-size inclusive items as I can, because she and I are both plus-size women. Because she was an educator, I will occasionally share tips on how to alter or remix pieces to make them your own, or other tricks of the finding trade when you're on the hunt yourself.
Welcome to a merge of past and present, of history and legacy... Welcome to Pinetree VTG.
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