Kansas Michalke, a content creator and mom of two in Austin, Texas, has a knack for finding hidden gems while thrifting. She grew up in a family that would frequent garage sales and thrift shops, never focusing on brand names or designers. During a shopping excursion, she stumbled upon a shiny evening gown that caught her eye. She didn’t realize until later that she had purchased a vintage gown designed by Oleg Cassini, Jacqueline Kennedy’s personal dressmaker. Michalke was drawn to the craftsmanship of the gown, particularly the sequin work and pearl detailing.
Oleg Cassini was a prominent fashion designer known for his work with stars of Old Hollywood and his close relationship with Jackie Kennedy. He was even referred to as her “secretary of style” by the former first lady. Cassini designed the gown Jackie Kennedy wore during her husband’s presidential inauguration in 1961. Despite his death in 2006, Cassini remains a significant figure in the history of American design and fashion. Michalke’s discovery of a Cassini gown, which she bought for $15, has generated great interest among social media users who shared their own Cassini finds.
Michalke’s Cassini gown appears to be a unique piece, potentially part of his exclusive “Black Tie Collection.” She has not been able to find similar styles online, leading her to believe it may be a one-off or runway piece. While she hopes to learn more about the gown’s origins and value, Michalke is more focused on enjoying it with her daughters, who love playing dress-up with the iconic garment. She has embraced a motto of “Boycott being boring” and enjoys sharing her thrifting adventures and tips with others through a thrifting guide she has written.
Thrifting has been a source of joy and excitement for Michalke, who believes there are always hidden treasures waiting to be discovered at thrift stores. A representative from Goodwill Industries International noted the thrill of finding rare and exciting pieces like Michalke’s Cassini gown at their stores. Thrifting allows individuals to find unique items with a past life and stories behind them, making each purchase special. Michalke’s $15 find has not only brought her joy but has also sparked interest in the fashion community and beyond, showcasing the beauty and value of thrifted pieces.
Michalke’s unique thrift store find has shed light on the lasting influence of designers like Oleg Cassini and the importance of appreciating the craftsmanship and history behind vintage garments. Her story highlights the thrill of unearthing hidden treasures while thrifting and the joy of sharing those discoveries with others. As she continues to explore the origins of her Cassini gown and its potential significance, Michalke’s passion for thrifting and fashion will undoubtedly inspire others to embrace the excitement of the treasure hunt at thrift stores like Goodwill.
