Tate McRae might just be the coolest woman you know — and part of that is thanks to Gianna Corvino, founder of The NY Archive.
The vintage collector and designer is behind McRae’s coveted zebra pony hair Fendi heels, as well as the singer’s go-to baby tee. Now, she’s telling ET how she does it all.
“Growing up on the Upper East Side in New York City, girls had Chanel backpacks at age 16 and luxury goods were everywhere. Instead of giving in to that pressure, my mom kept me grounded and let me borrow from her closet. I didn’t even realize I was wearing vintage at the time, I just knew I felt amazing slipping into her old BCBG dresses or my dad’s leather jackets,” she explains.
What started as raiding her parents’ wardrobes evolved into a global treasure hunt. Today, Corvino scours everything from Paris flea markets to Upstate New York estate sales, sourcing standout items for herself, McRae, Lily Rabe, and more.
“The right piece doesn’t just complete an outfit, it helps you stand apart, whether it’s on a red carpet or just on your way to work. … It’s part intuition, part obsession. I’m constantly looking for pieces that spark something in me,” she notes.
Among her personal favorites: Manolo Blahnik shoes, embroidered Christian Lacroix gowns, crochet Blumarine separates, colorful Dior tops, and beaded Fendi baguettes.
For anyone embarking on their own vintage mission, Corvino suggests starting with a strong sense of personal style.
“Once you know yourself, finding the right pieces becomes effortless. It takes a little trial and error but drawing inspiration from things you love like old movies, magazines, or even art can really help,” she shares.
If you want an extra hand, Corvino offers one-on-one appointments at her curated showroom in New York City.
“I love doing private sourcing and styling sessions at The NY Archive HQ. … I wanted the vibe to be the opposite of a retail store and more like an elevated version of playing dress-up or walking into your most stylish friend’s apartment. It’s a fun, intimate, and nostalgic space.”
Staples you can’t leave without? Worn-in Levi’s, a leather bomber jacket, cowboy boots, ballet flats, and a pre-loved watch. To level things up, Corvino says it’s all about adding the perfect graphic tee.
“A baby tee is such a simple piece, but the right one can completely shift your look, like wearing your personality on your sleeve, literally. … The NY Archive designs are funny, playful, cheeky, and a little girly. … They land somewhere between the nostalgia of the Justice tees we all grew up with, Rachel McAdams‘ iconic graphic tank while playing Regina George in Mean Girls, and Dior shirts from the early 2000s.”
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