Meet the Curator Behind Our Vintage Rack at Wild Cactus: Art Project by Caroline Holley
At Wild Cactus, we’re all about collaborating with creatives who bring something fresh and personal to the table--Caroline Holley is doing just that. Her vintage collection, Art Project, lives on a rack in our Portland boutique and blends playful nostalgia with timeless style. Think slip skirts, everyday denim, colorful knits, and the perfect little bags to bring it all together. We caught up with Caroline for a little photoshoot and to hear more about the story behind Art Project, her creative process, and how she’s balancing life as a new mom and vintage seller. We styled these looks using a mix of Caroline's vintage finds and new pieces from the Wild Cactus shop.
How did this whole vintage dream of yours get started?
It started in college, when I got really into fashion and decided to create an Instagram to sell vintage just for fun. At the time, it was super casual. I wasn’t thinking long-term or trying to build a brand. After a break, I ended up working for a local online vintage shop, which pulled me back into the vintage world in a much deeper way. I learned so much through that job, and it gave me the push to start selling again—this time with more intention. That’s how Art Project came to life. I’ve always loved the hunt, but even more so, I love styling and photographing the pieces I find in a fun and refreshing way.
What kind of things spark your inspiration when you're curating your collections?
There are so many people I follow on Instagram and Pinterest that inspire me daily. I use that inspiration when I’m out sourcing. Thrifting gives you this way of staying current without feeding into fast fashion or overconsumption. I like to keep an eye out for pieces that fit the moment, but also have something a little different or unexpected about them. Right now, polka dots are super trendy, which I love, so when thrifting lately I’ve been keeping an eye out for this pattern. I’ve been thrifting long enough now that I usually feel an immediate pull to something or nothing at all. If I’m questioning a piece or not sure how I would style something, that’s usually my cue to leave it.
How do you find your rhythm between motherhood and running your business?
It’s been tough, and a huge adjustment. There’s a lot of figuring it out as I go. I’ve had to slow down in some areas, but I’ve also found new ways of making things work. I always laugh when I picture myself thrifting. I’m usually on a tight schedule since I’m still nursing my baby and need to be home within acouple hours. So I’m moving fast, probably looking frantic, but just doing what I can with the time I have. It’s a juggling act, but I’m getting better at knowing what’s worth my time and what’s not.
How would you describe your style in three words, and how does vintage play into your everyday looks?
There’s pretty much always something vintage in what I wear. Some days it’s just a pair of sunglasses or a bag, other days it could be the entire outfit. I like mixing vintage with my go-to modern basics to keep my outfits feeling interesting. Right now, I’d say my style is relaxed, a little offbeat, and evolving. I’m still figuring it out post-baby, but I kind of like that it’snot set in stone.
Paint us a picture: what's your perfect night out in Portland—and most importantly, what are you wearing?
Something low-key. I’m picturing a good meal and maybe some live music on a patio somewhere. You’d probably catch me in a slip skirt with vintage mules, an oversized button up, all my favorite jewelry, and a statement purse!
If you’ve browsed the boutique lately, you’ve probably noticed Caroline’s rack--maybe you’ve already snagged a piece of your own! Art Project is more than just a name; it’s a reflection of the care, creativity, and instinct that goes into every single find. Caroline is bringing in new pieces regularly, so pop in and see what’s new!
Follow Art Project on Instagram @artprojectshop_
XO,
Wild Cactus