From pop-up shops to flea markets, Little Apple Vintage Flea served its community for years with vintage styles full of charm and history. Now, the clothing market solidifies that service in its forever home, located at 622 N Manhattan Ave. in the heart of Aggieville. 

Before its store opening, Vintage Flea partnered with local companies such as Manhattan Brewing Co., The Manhattan Farmers Market and Taste of Memphis Catering to reach the community. Vintage Flea is a frequent vendor at the downtown farmer’s market, promising affordable prices and trendy pieces. After the flea’s success, the owners thought it was time to find their own home. 

Co-owners Andrew Kemp and Matthew Klassen started out as college students and coincidentally dropped out in the same semester at different colleges. The pair made their way to the Little Apple to make a name for themselves. 

“We mostly just needed a home to not be doing flea markets as much and having a centralized income regularly,” Klassen said. “We were inspired by the flea market and decided to keep the same name. It’s been a natural progression, we started working out of our own homes and then we started doing pop-ups and the flea market. As we’ve grown we just realized we needed a home to work out of.”

From custom Jesus t-shirts to vintage Levi’s, the shop is tailored to add a pop of color or vintage aesthetic to anyone’s everyday style.

“We take inspiration from shops around the country but try and keep things affordable, whether it’s K-State apparel or something trendy,” Kemp said. “We want to have a wide range of aesthetics for everyone to enjoy.”

The co-owners attempt to reach beyond college students and help townies find something to enjoy. Throughout the history of their business, Kemp and Klassen kept customer connection a priority.

“We have been at the flea market for three years, with pop-ups downtown and at Bluestem,” Kemp said. “… We want to have used clothing accessible for all in Manhattan. Connecting with new people and building beyond our current clients to the community is important to us.”