Shireen's Favorite Things

Vintage camouflage jackets re-imagined with eye-catching patches, bedazzled emblems and beautiful broaches by Josie Bruno Vintage.

I went through this crazy phase in high school: I would only wear black. Think goth-meets-alternative rock with a Madonna-esque edge. When I grew tired of being monochromatic, I would throw on one of my dad’s old military jackets. There was just something really special about them.

I loved the texture, camouflage material and smell. Eventually, one of his jackets became my own uniform of sorts, helping me feel more self-confident through my awkward teen years. Looking back on it now (at least the old photos,) I was definitely onto something fashion wise. I just didn’t know it at the time.

Fast forward a few decades later: military-chic has become a fashion mainstay, but for me, it still can’t compete with my dad’s old military jacket. That’s why, when I heard about what “Josie Bruno Vintage” was doing, I had to feature them on the blog.

Patti Bruno Rivero is the mastermind behind the company (which is named after her mother) that creates one-of-a-kind camo and denim jackets. She designs what I like to call ‘modern day charm bracelets.’ Meaning, she takes everything you love and adore and sews them into a creative, eye-catching piece of clothing.

Patti can attach patches, broaches, pins, lace and just about anything else your heart desires. The best part? All of her work is rooted in vintage and she doesn’t alter the jackets in any way. They’re kept completely intact, as an ode to the soldiers who wore them.

Instead, she re-purposes them; giving new life and a fresh perspective on an already intriguing garment. When it comes to what you can put on the jacket, Patti says: “It’s all about the placement.” She doesn’t overdo it, striking the perfect balance between bedazzle and understated beauty.

If you’re not into something custom-made, you can shop off her racks and still find something special. Although she reuses certain themes, nothing is ever duplicated. That’s definitely refreshing, given the fact we’re in a time where finding something unique to wear is almost impossible.

Don’t miss Deco Drive tonight at 7:30pm & 11:30pm on Channel 7 (WSVN) as we go behind the scenes with “Josie Bruno Vintage” and see first-hand how “Vintage Camo,” is created. It’s definitely one of my Favorite Things and I’m almost positive it’ll be one of yours, too. Happy Shopping!

www.josiebrunovintage.com or shop the looks and more on instagram: @Josiebruno459