In the heart of Historic Downtown Norman, Crimson Vintage has quickly positioned itself as a hub for those seeking a slowed-down, intentional approach to fashion. Midwest HQ spent the day with founders Bryan Albert and Connell McBride, styling looks for a photoshoot and exploring how this store blends nostalgia, collegiate pride, and a community-centered ethos to connect with its customers. Here, Bryan and Connell share the story behind Crimson Vintage and their vision for creating a distinctive shopping experience.
Q: How did the idea of Crimson Vintage come about? What inspired you to start a vintage store, especially one focused on collegiate and streetwear fashion?
“After years of selling online, we wanted to connect with our customers directly,” Bryan says.“ Vintage clothing has always been a way for people to express their individuality, so opening a physical store felt like the natural next step. We wanted to create a space where people could connect with their purchases, not just buy and ship.”
Walking through Crimson Vintage, it’s inspiring to see how Bryan and Connell’s vision has manifested. The atmosphere invites you to linger—not to rush to the checkout, but to take your time sifting through the racks to find something that speaks to you.
Crimson Vintage focuses heavily on OU apparel and streetwear-inspired vintage, combining Norman’s collegiate culture with the freedom of self-expression that vintage fashion offers.
Q: What was the process like curating your first collection of OU pieces? Were there any challenges or surprises?
“Our first collection was a labor of love—and a lot of trial and error,” Connell recalls with a smile. “We were always on the lookout for OU memorabilia even before opening, knowing that this would be a central part of our store. The challenge was figuring out what to put on the racks initially. We wanted each piece to feel special.”
Their meticulous approach shows in the details—whether it’s a jacket that still has its original tags or a well-worn hoodie that looks like it’s been to every game since the ‘90s—every item has been thoughtfully selected to evoke a memory.
Q: You’ve mentioned wanting to create an “experience” for shoppers, where they can leave with a full outfit. Can you elaborate on how you bring that vision to life in the store?
“At Crimson Vintage, it’s more than just finding a single piece,” says Bryan. “We carry everything you’d need for a complete outfit, except shoes. The store is arranged to show how these pieces can work together, creating a sense of cohesion. It’s about experiencing the curation and being in a positive environment that makes shopping feel relaxed and engaging.”
The intentional layout encourages customers to explore. As I watch customers pick up pieces and hold them together, it’s clear how Bryan and Connell’s approach creates a seamless experience, one where shoppers feel inspired to put together looks that reflect their personal style.
Q: What role does the OU community play in shaping the aesthetic and inventory of your store? How important is it for you to connect with students and locals?
“With half the store dedicated to OU clothing and memorabilia, the OU community is central to Crimson Vintage, especially during sports seasons,” says Bryan. “Our customers aren’t just shoppers—they’re part of this community. We’re committed to creating a space where students and locals feel at home.”
Watching students eagerly search for game day gear and locals stop in to browse, the influence of the OU community is undeniable. Crimson Vintage has become a destination for those looking to celebrate their school pride while also finding pieces that stand out.
We want people to feel like they’ve stepped into a memory.”
Q: Can you walk us through the vibe and atmosphere of the store itself? What do you hope customers feel when they walk through the door?
Connell describes the store as a blend of nostalgia and discovery. “We want people to feel like they’ve stepped into a memory. The goal is to create a wave of nostalgia that hits customers as soon as they walk in. We want them to slow down, explore, and connect with pieces that mean something to them.” The shop’s layout, with racks arranged to encourage browsing and discovery, feels intentional and welcoming. Every corner has been designed to invite shoppers to linger a little longer, to find pieces that resonate with them on a personal level.
Q: Are there any trends or styles that you’re particularly excited about showcasing in Crimson Vintage this season?
“We’re excited for the cold weather so we can finally bring out the outerwear we’ve been holding onto for months,” Bryan says. “It’s about sharing pieces that capture the season and fit the moment.”
The anticipation is clear as he points out a rack of vintage jackets ready to make their debut. These new pieces represent the store’s approach to fashion—classic, well-made, and ready to be rediscovered.
Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to incorporate more vintage pieces into their wardrobe, especially for game days or casual campus life?
“Don’t worry about trends,” Connell advises. “Pick items that make you happy and feel like an extension of yourself. Vintage is all about building a collection that reflects your personality.”
Q: What makes Crimson Vintage stand out among other clothing stores?
Connell explains, “Our store has a tight curation of clothing—we’re selective about every piece we carry. It’s not about quantity; it’s about quality and connection. People recognize that care when they walk in.”
Observing Connell’s interactions with customers, it’s clear that building a sense of community is as important as selling clothes. Regulars greet him by name, and new visitors seem to quickly feel at ease, reflecting the welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere that Crimson Vintage has cultivated.
Q: How has Crimson Vintage evolved since you first opened? Are there any future plans or goals you’re working toward?
“Crimson Vintage has grown beyond what we expected. We’re grateful for the repeat customers and friendships we’ve formed,” Bryan reflects. “For the future, we just want to keep spreading great vintage pieces and building that sense of connection.”
With Crimson Vintage, Bryan and Connell have built a space that celebrates community, memory, and style. Their collaboration with Midwest HQ captures that spirit, showcasing their carefully curated collection and the distinct style that has made Crimson Vintage a beloved part of the Norman landscape.
