Just two years ago, Richard Biasi started crafting bowties from recycled vintage neckties to sell on Etsy. It was a new-found creative outlet for a man whose creativity has taken on many forms ( more on that later ). This love of tailored menswear quickly snowballed into selling a larger range of vintage men's fashions and, ultimately, to the opening of his new storefront in the Humboldt Park neighborhood, Richard's Fabulous Finds.
The opening of the store, located at 2545 W. North Ave., wasn't too much of a stretch. "The idea of a 'men's only' shop was very appealing to me. Plus, in all the years I have frequented vintage markets I had never seen a space dedicated to just men. The surprise and delight of many of the people that would come into my space was amazing. Opening my store was the next step."
Richard hunts everywhere for his stock, and has even gained enough recognition such that people are now bringing him pieces for the store. He shared, "One customer recently told me she was just so happy that her father's clothing was going to a 'good home' and not some thrift store. Made me feel wonderful that I could do that for her."
A wide range of customers come through Richard's Fabulous Finds, from young men who are just starting to get interested in fashion to older gents that appreciate the nostalgia of vintage. Plus, he has even had some interest from the entertainment industry. He recently taped an episode of LA Frock Stars for the Smithsonian Channel ( due to air March 2015 ) and very nearly sold a suit to rap star Macklemore, which fell through at the last minute. "It would have been so awesome to see one of my pieces on a big star. It will happen someday. I have to remind myself I have only been open for three months."
Whereas Richard is making a name for himself in menswear, some may still recognize him from his previous career as tart-tongued drag queen Regina Upright. He claims that there are very few similarities between performing and selling menswear, but it was another great creative outlet. "In a way, I guess you could say it's all about creating an image. Classy always wins in my book."
THE STATS
Age: 44
Neighborhood: Home: Rogers Park; Business: Humboldt Park
Relationship status: Single ( It's NOT a dirty word, LOL. )
Job title: Owner, Richard's Fabulous Finds
Website: www.richardsfabulousfinds.com
Hobbies: "My work IS my hobby. 'High of the buy, thrill of the sale.'"
Four people ( living or dead ) you'd like to have dinner with: Mae West, Bette Davis, Gary Cooper, Norma Shearer
Preferred drink at a bar: Dirty martini, 3 pimento olives
Favorite accessory: "The hand-crocheted boutonnieres in my shop."
Fun fact: "The photo I use for my shop is actually of me with my identical twin brother."