In the heart of White Center, a vibrant gem sparkles amidst a neighborhood that continues to evolve. Cartwheel Vintage and Consign, a consignment shop that's so much more than just a store, has been spinning tales of fashion, community, and sustainability for the past two and a half years. At the helm of this whimsical enterprise is Iris Stokes, a woman whose life seems to have been stitched together from patches of colorful experiences, much like the eclectic collection she curates.

The Ringmaster of Retail

Iris Stokes isn't your average shopkeeper. Her journey to owning Cartwheel Vintage reads like a fashion fairy tale with a circus twist. From her early days as a Nordstrom teen fashion board member to her nights as an underground burlesque performer, Iris has always had a flair for the dramatic and a passion for self-expression through clothing.

"My love for costumes, movement, and glam influence my everyday style," Iris explains, her eyes twinkling with the same enthusiasm that likely captivated audiences during her time as a circus arts coach. "I've always been drawn to bright colors and far-away places, and I strive to bring that sense of wonder and playfulness to the shopping experience."

More Than Just a Store

Cartwheel Vintage isn't just a place to buy clothes; it's a community hub where fashion meets social responsibility. The shop offers a unique blend of vintage treasures and modern essentials, catering to all genders and a wide range of sizes from 3X to XS. But what truly sets Cartwheel apart is its commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.

"I wanted to create a community space that could provide inclusive, sustainable clothing options while being more than just a store," Iris says. Her vision has materialized in the form of over 300 consignors, some of whom have earned upwards of $2000 selling their items through Cartwheel.

Perhaps the most heartwarming feature of the store is the Community Rack, a collection of free clothing items that greets visitors near the entrance. "It's my way of ensuring that all are welcome to shop or enjoy the community benefits of browsing and chatting, regardless of disposable income," Iris explained.

Tales from the Rack

Every piece in Cartwheel Vintage has a story, and Iris delights in being the storyteller. She recounts the tale of a 1950s bowling shirt from Roxbury Lanes, a piece of local history that she helped reunite with its rightful place. Instead of selling it to the highest bidder, Iris reached out to Roxbury Lanes and orchestrated a community event that celebrated both the shirt and the memories it represented.

Another poignant story involves a 1950s bridal chest, never used, belonging to a woman now nearing 100 years old. The unused lingerie and dresses, still bearing tags from luxury Seattle department stores, tell a powerful tale of a woman who chose her career over societal expectations.

"This is the story of a strong woman, a scientist and engineer who chose not to sacrifice herself under the pressures of a single man or society," Iris remarked.

The Future Keeps Spinning

As Cartwheel Vintage continues to grow, Iris remains committed to her vision of a shop that's as much about community as it is about fashion. Whether you're hunting for a pair of vintage Levi's, a unique piece of jewelry, or just a warm welcome, Cartwheel Vintage is ready to take you for a spin.

And if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Iris herself, perhaps sporting a pair of rust-colored leather hot pants from 1970s Greenwich Village – a treasured find that inspired her latest burlesque persona, Cinnamon Suede.

In a world that often seems to be spinning out of control, Cartwheel Vintage offers a chance to slow down, connect, and rediscover the joy of dressing up – all while making the world a little bit brighter, one vintage piece at a time.

Cartwheel Vintage and Consign is located at 9422 Delridge Way SW.

Visit them online at https://www.cartwheelvintage.com

Check out their Instagram feed here:

Fall Hours:

Tuesday - Friday 11AM - 7PM

Saturday & Sunday 12PM -  6PM

Closed Mondays