Vintage Vibes: How a Small Business Found Its Groove in Texas

In the heart of Texas, a unique clothing store has found its rhythm. Ripptaggs Vintage Clothing, nestled along Sixth Street, is more than just a shop—it's a hub for vintage lovers and casual browsers alike. The store's owner, Michael Geeker, started this journey with a simple goal: to find clothes that fit well and last long. Little did he know, this personal quest would turn into a thriving business. Geeker's love for vintage clothing began in high school, where he discovered the durability and style of older pieces. What started as a personal collection soon turned into a side hustle, with friends and teammates eager to buy his outgrown clothes. This demand led him to source more items, expanding his inventory beyond his own size. By the time he moved to the Texas Panhandle to play football at West Texas A&M University, his resale business was already gaining momentum. However, football took a backseat after multiple concussions, and Geeker shifted his focus entirely to Ripptaggs. The name, inspired by a lyric from Macklemore's "Thrift Shop, " reflects the store's roots in resale culture. Initially, Geeker relied on pop-up sales and storage-unit appointments, but he quickly realized the need for a permanent space. After a year of searching, he secured two storefronts—one in Amarillo and another in Canyon, right across from the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum.The store's layout is designed to encourage browsing, with racks of graphic T-shirts, denim, and jackets lining the walls. Vintage sports imagery and retro decor add to the shop's charm, making it a place where customers can spend hours exploring. Geeker's approach to curation is simple: quality and fit come first, followed by trends and local demand. This means the store stocks a variety of items, from affordable graphic tees to higher-end collectible pieces. One of the most talked-about items in the store is a 1997 Mike Tyson-Evander Holyfield "Bite Fight" T-shirt, displayed behind the counter like a prized artifact. Nearby hangs a rare 1940s West Texas State cheerleader jacket, preserved more like a museum piece than merchandise. These items not only add to the store's unique aesthetic but also connect it to the local history. Geeker's pricing strategy is designed to be accessible, with inventory priced below most online market rates. This ensures that customers can find something they love without breaking the bank. Social media plays a key role in promoting the store, with Geeker using platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok to showcase new arrivals. This digital presence has helped attract customers from far and wide. As Ripptaggs continues to grow, Geeker's goal remains simple: to keep the inventory moving, the space welcoming, and give people a place to find something personal. Vintage clothing, he believes, is about finding pieces that feel like they were meant for you. And in the heart of Texas, Ripptaggs Vintage Clothing is doing just that.