How Fort Worth’s Studio 74 Vintage Became One of the Most Recognized Vintage Stores in the Country

Fort Worth’s fashion-minded, take note: Studio 74 Vintage owner Laura Simmons has officially set November 18 for her highly anticipated Vintage Western Drop. From 6 pm to 9 pm, Simmons anticipates a “frenzy” of shopping as buyers descend on her West Fort Worth boutique to snatch up pieces from her substantial inventory of high-end vintage Western wear, including fringed leather jackets, pearl-snap shirts, rhinestone-studded outfits, sequined pieces, and fur coats.

“Everybody just wants to be a cowgirl,” she says with a laugh, adding that growing interest in Western fashion and vintage has been “great for business.”

The Vintage Western Drop may well be the local starting gun for two major Western style showcases that also happen to be world-class rodeos: the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas and the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR). The NFR kicks off in early December, while the FWSSR returns in January and runs through February.

Vogue named Studio 74 Vintage one of the world’s best vintage stores in 2024 and 2026, and it has become a destination for fashion enthusiasts, celebrity stylists, and collectors seeking rare, one-of-a-kind finds. For Simmons, a Fort Worth native with an eye for rare finds and a passion for history, the boutique’s national recognition is the culmination of years spent tracking down extraordinary pieces from decades past.

“More so than fashion, I love the history of these pieces and the nostalgia behind them,” she says.

Inside Studio 74 Vintage’s Remarkable Collection

Over the past five years, Simmons has steadily grown her business and reputation, carving out a unique niche among local vintage stores for her rare finds and knack for anticipating what Western fashion shoppers are clamoring for. Simmons readily admits that she entered the business with no formal training in fashion or retail, only a “discerning eye” and a love for finding one-of-a-kind pieces.

The boutique owner estimates she sources roughly 2,000 pieces per week through a network of private sellers, estate contacts, and suppliers. As we chat behind her register, she takes a phone call from a potential seller, directing them to bring the piece by the store during business hours.

“I’m on the hunt for unique, rare things,” she says. “I’m getting harder and harder to impress because I see so much great stuff come through my doors. The pieces can’t be damaged and should be in mint condition unless they are lightly used jeans or T-shirts. The more weird, wild, funky, and colorful, the better.”

She points to a six-piece ensemble dating to the 1880s, accompanied by an original photograph of the woman who wore it. The remarkably preserved outfit is one of many historical treasures that have passed through Simmons’ hands. Other notable finds include a Bob Mackie outfit once worn by Cher and clothing from the estate of legendary Fort Worth television journalist Bobbie Wygant.

When someone brings a particularly remarkable piece, she gleans any history about the clothing or accessory that she can, supplementing that knowledge with auction records, insight from antiques experts she knows, and other resources to authenticate the garments. While most pieces sell for an average of around $100, rare finds can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars, particularly when they have a remarkable history.

“I’m curious about where these pieces have been and who the owners entertained,” she says. “Giving clothing a second life, that’s what is cool to me.”

Why Rodeo Season Is Fort Worth’s Don’t-Miss Red Carpet Event

Toward the end of my visit, Simmons took me to her back storage room, where racks of fur coats, leather vests, boots, and other vintage Western wear await the big Vintage Western Drop. She anticipates a continuation of recent trends, with leather fringe, pearl snaps, rhinestone-studded pieces, and fur coats remaining popular buys at her store. Looking at the rows of clothing, she couldn’t help but laugh, noting that her boutique will soon become a “madhouse” of shoppers seeking standout pieces ahead of rodeo season.

“I think there’s been a misconception about Fort Worth that we’re country or maybe not as cosmopolitan, but nothing could be further from the truth,” she says. “People show up and show out when they come to the Stock Show, wearing their best hats, best belts, fur coats, big turquoise jewelry, and all the fringe.”

Simmons has sage advice for fashion-minded rodeo-goers: Start with a signature piece and build around it. Mix vintage finds with contemporary clothing and experiment with unexpected combinations, such as pairing a delicate lace top with leather pants or a flowing 1970s dress with rugged antique boots.

She also advises shoppers to ignore vintage sizing labels, which have not been standardized across decades and may differ considerably from modern sizes. Above all, she encourages shoppers to try everything on and take their time finding pieces that reflect their personal style rather than simply following trends. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is Cowtown’s “red carpet” event, she says.

“It’s that one time of year when it’s cold enough to pull these pieces out of the closet and wear them,” she says. “People look forward to it all year long.”

For the latest updates on her Vintage Western Drop and more, follow Studio 74 Vintage on Instagram at @studio74vintage.