The Archiveast is the Instagram account you must follow if you’re into high-end vintage fashion. Based in Tallinn, Slovak fashion archivist Kamila Kučíková shares her one-of-a-kind collection, captured through the lens of Silver Mikiver at her elegant Kadriorg home.
Kamila, 36, holds an MA in International Business from Comenius University in Slovakia and an MA in Animation from the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA). She currently teaches Animation History at EKA while professionally sourcing and archiving vintage fashion.
When did you start noticing clothes?
My earliest memory of clothing dates back to when I was about six years old. I dreamt of owning a denim jacket—the ultimate symbol of Western culture in the post-Soviet region—and begged my parents to buy one for me at a local marketplace in Bratislava. However, the buttonholes were sewn too tight, so I tried to cut them open and ended up making them too wide. Thankfully, my dad was a talented seamster and fixed my mistake.
First fashion-connected memories?
As a kid, I would draw my own fashion magazines, complete with fake gossip, the latest trends, bad dietary advice, and more. Then, I’d make each family member buy a copy. Later, I began making my own clothes and even attempted to craft shoes. It was a blissfully ambitious time.
What was your style like when you were in high school? University? Now?
It changes constantly. As a chronic people-pleaser, growing up I mostly tried to fit in, even when it clashed with my own aesthetic—girly hip-hop in high school, feminine norm-core while studying Business, and thrifted '90s at the Art Academy.
Now, it’s practical “mom dressing” (I basically live in what I sleep in), with the occasional splash of vintage extravaganza.
Collecting clothes, how did it start?
Once I graduated and had money to spend, I decided to only invest in quality clothing—but I was still looking for affordable prices. Gradually, this approach grew into an obsessive form of vintage hunting.
Clothes as a language?
Dressing is more aspirational than reflective of our inner state. We dress in the hopes of seducing, uplifting, belonging or intimidating.
What keeps you fascinated with fashion?
The past.
Clothes as souvenirs or memories?
I tend to remember what I or others wore during significant moments, but I don’t believe in intentionally shopping for wearable souvenirs.
Clothes that you used to own but have lost/sold and miss?
I move on pretty easily—from possessions as well as relationships—so no regrets. It’s about the thrill of the hunt, after all.
Though I do remember all the vintage pieces I missed out on.
Who are your customers?
Women of certain means, mostly abroad. I have a working relationship with a vintage dealer in London who caters to celebrities. Personally, I prefer not to work with the famous; their expectations are often unrealistic, and their willingness to pay for the services is low.
Your taste versus the stuff you collect and sell?
The longer I do this, the more I view clothes as collectible art. Rather than dressing my own body, I acquire clothes as conversation pieces—something worth documenting.
Recently, I bought a fringe skirt from the late Alexander McQueen—a chicly inappropriate interpretation of Native American dressing. While I wouldn’t wear his version of Pocahontas myself, there’s much to be said about such fashion faux pas.
Your everyday style vs. your going out style?
As the mother of a two-year-old, I don’t really go out.
Your personal style icons?
Cindy Sherman.
Describe Estonian style, if there is such a thing?
Asexually folk.
What are your most prized possessions?
My knowledge.
