Chip Cordelli: From NYC Suburbs Kid to Prop Stylist and Vintage Clothing Entrepreneur
Table of Contents
Introduction
Early Life and Adventures
A Journey to the West Coast
Navigating the World of Publishing
From Clutter Coach to Vintage Entrepreneur
The Future: Downsizing, Decluttering, and Storytelling
Introduction
In a lively conversation with Amber, Chip Cordelli shared his remarkable journey from a suburban kid to a multifaceted creative professional. Chip's adventures have taken him from the suburbs of New York to the bustling streets of NYC, through the challenges of the AIDS epidemic, and into the dynamic worlds of publishing, styling, and vintage clothing. This article explores the diverse chapters of Chip Cordelli's life and career, highlighting his unique experiences and entrepreneurial spirit.
Early Life and Adventures
Chip Cordelli's early life was marked by curiosity and a thirst for adventure. Growing up in Westchester, a New York City suburb, he was drawn to the vibrant energy of the city. At a young age, he would venture into NYC, exploring midtown Manhattan, including iconic spots like 42nd Street with its colorful characters and peep shows. These early urban explorations laid the foundation for a lifetime of adventures in the city that never sleeps.
A Journey to the West Coast
After completing his college education in Seattle, Chip returned to NYC in the mid-1980s, just in time to witness significant events like the Reagan era, the AIDS epidemic, and the stock market crash of '87. His involvement with ACTUP and work in various fields, including book publishing and fashion PR, contributed to his broad skill set. His early experiences as a window dresser at Henri Bendel and later at Bergdorf Goodman honed his eye for style and visual storytelling.
Navigating the World of Publishing
Chip Cordelli's career path led him to the world of publishing, where he worked for REAL SIMPLE magazine. Notably, he became the "Clutter Coach," helping readers organize their homes. His role expanded into art direction, and he worked on the magazine's television series. This experience sparked his interest in broadcast and video production, highlighting his adaptability and versatility in different media.
From Clutter Coach to Vintage Entrepreneur
Throughout his career, Chip maintained a passion for shopping, thrifting, and collecting vintage clothing and props. As the magazine industry underwent significant changes, he pivoted to create a vintage reselling business. Chip now operates online and at specialty vintage shows in NYC and Massachusetts. His presence on platforms like Instagram, Etsy, and eBay has allowed him to reach a broader audience, proving that vintage shopping remains a vibrant market.
The Future: Downsizing, Decluttering, and Storytelling
Chip Cordelli's entrepreneurial spirit continues to evolve. He is currently involved in the estate liquidation of his late parents and aims to create a business that focuses on downsizing, decluttering, and preserving personal stories. His vision includes scanning photos, conducting interviews about collections, and ultimately producing hard copy books that celebrate individuals' lives through their cherished possessions. This concept melds photo albums with StoryCorps, offering a unique way for families to remember and honor their loved ones.
Chip Cordelli's life journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and creativity. From his early escapades in NYC to his multifaceted career, Chip has carved a unique path that reflects his love for storytelling, style, and vintage treasures. His future endeavors promise to combine these passions into a meaningful and enriching venture.
—This article was written, restructured, or adapted by Russell with information gathered from sources around the internet. Russell is the producer of Amber Live and is greatly overworked to pull it all together. If it’s on the internet, it must be true. (We’re kidding.) BUT, if you find any errors or omissions in the article, please let us know so that we may correct the issue. Thanks for your support!
