For 76-year-old great-grandmother and style influencer Ann-Britt, fashion is memory, expression, and creativity. Her style moves effortlessly between silk, pearls, flea market finds, and self-made details – where even Mickey Mouse becomes a symbol of kindness and imagination.
It’s been just over a year since Ann-Britt, known as Kirppismummo (“the flea market granny”), posted her first Instagram reel. Since then, she has brought a refreshing kind of representation to fashion, showing how style, age, and self-expression can intertwine. Her looks combine second-hand treasures with timeless pieces, often reimagined through her own DIY touches.
[01]
When did you first realize that clothes matter?
Kirppis
As a child, I noticed that everything beautiful fascinated me, even if I didn’t yet connect that fascination to dressing.
[02]
What are your earliest memories of clothing?
When I started playing with paper dolls and dressing them in beautiful outfits, I discovered the wonderful world of clothing.
[03]
How would you describe your style when you were younger?
We have to consider my age – back in those days, fashion was largely influenced by films. Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn were in vogue. I had BB-style checkered trousers and, inspired by Audrey, capri pants.
[04]
When did your current style begin to take shape?
I think style is always evolving. It grows out of personality – some people simply feel a stronger need to express themselves through clothing, and over time that becomes a personal style.
[05]
Do you see clothing as a form of communication?
Absolutely. Clothing plays a significant role and is definitely a form of communication. In my working life, I’ve held positions where dress was defined for that reason. Later, as an entrepreneur, I consciously used clothing to express myself.
[06]
What draws you to flea markets and second-hand pieces?
It’s the joy of discovery. When clothing is one of your passions, it’s wonderful to find different ways to come across something unique. I love second-hand shops and flea markets.
[07]
Do clothes hold memories for you?
Very much so. There are pieces I’ll never part with, even if I don’t wear them anymore. They hold memories, but they’re also beautiful examples of craftsmanship. Some were made from fabrics I sourced during trips to the Far East, based on my own designs.
[08]
Are there pieces you wish you still had?
Not just one in particular, but sometimes I do miss certain garments. Fashion repeats itself, so when something comes back into style, it can bring those pieces to mind.
[09]
What matters most in your everyday outfit?
Ease and versatility. I often start with a white base – white jeans and a white blouse – and then combine them with different blazers or knitwear. Accessories complete the look: scarves, jewelry, and often pearls. I’ll even wear pearls with a T-shirt.
[10]
Whose style inspires you?
I greatly admire Coco Chanel – not just for her style, but for her courage and her role in advancing women’s freedom. My love of pearls comes from her. In Finland, I appreciate Sanna Marin’s style as well. It’s different from mine, but I admire her boldness.
[11]
When you share an outfit, what story do you like to tell?
I think about where the piece came from, why I like it, and when I’ve worn it – or when I might wear it. I also consider the reactions it has received, the memories it brings up, and how it makes me feel.
[12]
You often incorporate Mickey Mouse into your looks – why?
Mickey Mouse fascinates me aesthetically. To me, he represents kindness and goodwill, which is why he appears throughout my home as well. I once received some of my daughter’s discarded jewelry for my craft projects, including a broken Mickey Mouse brooch. Inspired by the safety pin jewelry trend, I turned it into a new piece using a safety pin, a chain, and a pearl.
[13]
How important is DIY in your style?
Very. I upcycle all kinds of things – clothing, buttons, ribbons. I give old jewelry a new life, turning it into new pieces or even small artworks. I also decorate bags and shoes. The possibilities are endless – if only I had more time!
[14]
And finally – pearls. Why do you love them so much?
I’m completely obsessed with pearls – it’s Coco Chanel’s fault. If I find pearl necklaces at a flea market, I can’t resist. I wear them with everything. I like experimenting – combining pearls with scarves, using them to adjust garments, styling them in unexpected ways. They’re endlessly fascinating.
CREDITSPhotography and interview by Eva-Liisa Orupõld