(Capitol File) What started as a common love for vintage clothing and accessories has become a successful business venture for friends Holly Thomas and Krista Haywood, cofounders of online style emporium Butler + Claypool. “We had been going ‘thrifting’ together for a few months, and one day we were taking a thrifting break at a coffee shop and started daydreaming about having a store-slash-creative workshop where we could sell vintage and host workshops for sewing and jewelry design,” says Thomas.

After retailing primarily via pop-up shops, the duo recently has started taking private styling appointments at Butler + Claypool’s bricks-and-mortar showroom, which opened on Capitol Hill in March. “When clients make appointments, they can let us know if they’re looking for something specific, like a cocktail dress, or just want a variety of items that suit their style, and we’ll have everything arranged and displayed when they arrive,” says Thomas. “This lets us tailor the experience to the client, which has always been our ultimate goal. We want it to feel like an awesome closet created just for you.” Appointments are flexible and can last as long as necessary, Thomas adds, though most run about an hour. Cost is determined on a case-by-case basis, dependent on the client’s specific needs. 202-509-3873.