Meet Artemisa (Mimi) Heitkamp | Vintage fashion enthusiast and model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Artemisa (Mimi) Heitkamp and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Artemisa (Mimi), what makes you happy? Why?
Dresses have always made me happy, ever since I was a little girl. I vividly remember the first dress I fell in love with—a pink one adorned with white daisies and a built-in stiff tulle layer underneath to fluff it out. Wearing that dress, I felt like a princess and never wanted to take it off.

When I was in college, I discovered vintage fashion and found that magical feeling all over again. There’s something indescribable about zipping up the perfect dress, one that fits like it was made just for you and makes you feel like a princess, regardless of what it looks like. I’ve been chasing that feeling for over a decade now, and there’s truly nothing in the world like it.

Dressing up makes me feel better about myself; it just does. While I’ve become more practical over the years—I no longer wear false lashes every day—I still cherish the ritual of putting on a pretty dress, making sure my hair looks nice, and applying some simple makeup. When I do, I feel like I can conquer the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My professional life and my love of vintage clothes have always been intertwined in the most delightful ways. I adore matching my outfits to the themes we’re learning about in class. This not only allows me to be creative when choosing my outfits, but it also excites the kids and extends their learning beyond the classroom. Seeing their faces light up when my dress matches the day’s lesson is incredibly rewarding.

Being a teacher, especially of Pre-Kindergarteners, is no easy feat. It’s not what I originally intended to do, but it has been an unintentional staple in my life since I was a teenager. Teaching has always been my passion, and even on my hardest days, I love my job.

I love making the kids feel loved and accepted. I love teaching them important lifelong skills, like not licking the water fountain and taking turns. Watching their personalities develop is one of the most fulfilling experiences. The combination of nurturing their growth and incorporating my passion for vintage fashion makes every day special. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Denver and check into your hotel.
Afternoon:
Lunch at The Delectable Egg: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this local favorite.
Explore Union Station: Visit this beautifully restored historic train station with its Art Deco details.
Evening:
Dinner at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant: Savor delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
Drinks at the Cruise Room: End your night with a visit to this iconic Art Deco bar located in the Oxford Hotel.

Day 2: Vintage Shopping and Art Deco Architecture

Morning:
Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: Enjoy creative breakfast dishes in a retro setting.
Visit the Denver Art Museum: Admire the impressive art collections, including modern and contemporary pieces.
Afternoon:
Lunch at City O’ City: A vegetarian restaurant with a cozy, vintage vibe.
Shopping on South Broadway (Antique Row): Explore various vintage shops like Boss Vintage and Regal Vintage.
Evening:
Dinner at Linger: Dine at this eclectic restaurant with a rooftop view of downtown Denver.
Drinks at Williams & Graham: Enjoy craft cocktails at this Prohibition-style speakeasy.

Day 3: Day Trip to Fort Collins

Morning:
Drive to Fort Collins (1-hour drive): Start your day early with a scenic drive.
Breakfast at Lucile’s Creole Cafe: A charming spot for Southern-style breakfast.
Afternoon:
Visit Wear It Again Sam: Explore this renowned vintage clothing store.
Lunch at The Welsh Rabbit Bistro & Cheese Shop: Delight in gourmet cheese and small plates.
Stroll through Old Town Fort Collins: Admire the preserved historic architecture.
Evening:
Dinner at The Kitchen: Enjoy farm-to-table dining in a rustic-chic setting.
Drive back to Denver.

Day 4: Historic Denver and Culture

Morning:
Breakfast at Jelly Cafe: Enjoy a retro breakfast experience.
Tour the Molly Brown House Museum: Learn about the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown in this beautifully restored Victorian mansion.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Union Lodge No. 1: A 19th-century-style cocktail bar with light bites.
Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Explore the exhibits and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.
Evening:
Dinner at Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox: A lively venue with live music and eclectic cuisine.
Drinks at The Cooper Lounge: Enjoy cocktails in a glamorous setting overlooking Union Station.

Day 5: Art and Gardens

Morning:
Breakfast at Sassafras American Eatery: Delight in Southern-inspired dishes in a vintage setting.
Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens: Stroll through beautifully curated gardens.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Ace Eat Serve: Enjoy Asian-inspired cuisine and a fun ping-pong bar.
Explore the RiNo Art District: Discover street art, galleries, and unique shops.
Evening:
Dinner at Rioja: Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine in Larimer Square.
Drinks at The Green Russell: A speakeasy with a vintage vibe and creative cocktails.

Day 6: Day Trip to Boulder

Morning:
Drive to Boulder (45-minute drive): Begin your day with a scenic drive to Boulder.
Breakfast at The Buff Restaurant: Enjoy hearty breakfast options.
Afternoon:
Visit Pearl Street Mall: Explore vintage shops, galleries, and street performers.
Lunch at Brasserie Ten Ten: Savor French cuisine in a charming setting.
Hike at Chautauqua Park: Take a leisurely hike with stunning views of the Flatirons.
Evening:
Dinner at The Kitchen Boulder: Enjoy fresh, local cuisine.
Drive back to Denver.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Morning:
Brunch at The Brown Palace Hotel: Experience a luxurious brunch in this historic hotel.
Afternoon:
Relax at the hotel or explore any missed spots in Denver.
Evening:
Farewell Dinner at El Five: Enjoy Mediterranean tapas with panoramic views of the city.
Drinks at Union Lodge No. 1: End your trip with a final visit to this vintage-inspired cocktail bar.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to the incredible small businesses that reproduce vintage clothing. These brands hold a special place in my heart as they offer a way for me to embrace the timeless charm of vintage fashion without the challenges of fitting into true vintage pieces or the fear of damaging them while running after preschoolers. Their dedication to reviving classic styles with modern fabrics and fits has been a game-changer for me.

I’d also like to recognize the wonderful members of the vintage community, particularly those who understand that vintage fashion doesn’t equate to vintage values. Their efforts to make the vintage scene a more inclusive and welcoming space for everyone are truly commendable. It’s inspiring to see a community that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging.

Lastly, I want to dedicate this shoutout to my amazing husband. His over a decade of film experience has been invaluable, and he graciously uses his skills to help me capture beautiful moments in fabulous dresses. His support and love have made this journey even more special.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/themarvelousmissmimi

Image Credits
Heitkamp Studios