Vintage Clothing Retailer Black & Brown Thrives in San Jose

Black & Brown, a vintage clothing store in San Jose, has established itself as a vibrant part of the local retail landscape. Founded by Monisha Murray, the business has evolved significantly since its inception over 21 years ago, growing from a modest 2,000-square-foot space to two larger stores that showcase men’s and women’s fashion spanning several decades, including pieces from the 1940s.

From Humble Beginnings to Flourishing Business

Murray’s journey into the world of vintage clothing began long before she opened Black & Brown. After graduating high school, she worked at Crossroads, a buy-sell-trade shop in San Jose. Over seven years, she progressed to a managerial position, overseeing the opening of the Santa Cruz location and serving as a buyer trainer.

“I’ve always thrifted,” Murray recalled. Her passion for vintage fashion was ignited when Crossroads introduced an alternative vibe to the local scene. Seeking new experiences, she later moved to New York and worked at Beacon’s Closet, a well-known upscale buy-sell store, for a year and a half. This experience solidified her desire to create her own store.

Upon returning to San Jose, she partnered with friends to open Black & Brown. The early days were challenging, as Murray balanced her responsibilities at the store with early morning shifts at a coffee shop. “Those first three years were a struggle, and we weren’t getting paid,” she admitted.

Adapting to Challenges and Expanding Horizons

As the business flourished, it soon outgrew its initial location. After moving to a 5,500-square-foot space on The Alameda, rising rent costs prompted another relocation. Murray found a historic two-story co-op built in the 1920s on West San Carlos Street, transforming it into an inviting retail space. “The building was really creepy at first,” she described, but after renovations, it became a welcoming home for her business.

Apart from the aesthetic appeal, the store’s inventory reflects a commitment to quality. Murray focuses on timeless pieces, steering clear of “fast fashion,” which she believes lacks durability. “It’s not really made to last,” she noted. Her approach emphasizes selecting items with exceptional fabric quality and structure.

Murray’s dedication to her craft extends to her staff; she trains them to rely on their instincts and fashion knowledge rather than solely consulting the marketplace. “I tell them, ‘I was buying in the 90s,'” she explained. “My brain was the database, and that’s where I had to pick and pull.”

Customer Zerreen Kazi has been shopping at Black & Brown for eight years. She cherishes a vintage suede jacket she purchased there, praising the distinctiveness of the pieces. “It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else in San Jose,” Kazi stated. “It’s a fascinating mix of fashion and culture, and it’s always a great time going there.”

Recently, Murray expanded her offerings by acquiring the adjacent space, previously occupied by the American Improv Theatre, now known as the “Black Cat Licorice” building. This new area is dedicated entirely to men’s fashion, from the 1940s to contemporary styles.

Despite the expansion, Murray remains committed to the principles that have driven her success. “I’m a big believer in ‘stick to your roots,'” she emphasized. “That’ll always be what your customers fell in love with in the first place.”

Black & Brown is located at 751 W. San Carlos St. in San Jose and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.. Buying hours are Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, contact Black & Brown at (408) 298-1970.