Little Black Book: Vintage stores
Whether it’s a ’50s tea dress or a retro china set, you’re guaranteed top-notch discoveries.
January 07, 2013
Whether it’s a ’50s tea dress or a retro china set, you’re guaranteed top-notch discoveries.
NSW: DOLLY UP VINTAGE EMPORIUM
382 Cleveland St, Surry Hills, dollyupvintage emporium.com.
There’s thrift-store vintage and then there’s one-of-a-kind vintage. With pieces so special they have names (past monikers include Billie and Lily), this gem majors in stunning one-offs. Need a cute weekend frock or a special little something for your wedding? It’s here. And if you’ve found a winner that doesn’t quite fit, owner Erin Hutchings and her gran will alter it to your measurements.
VIC: CHAPEL STREET BAZAAR
217 Chapel St, Prahran, (03) 9529 1727.
It’s not just a destination for pre-loved clothing, the bazaar is home to over 70 stalls where you could unearth anything from a retro camera to antique dinnerware and plenty of kooky home decor.
QLD: RA RA SUPERSTAR
284 Given Tce, Paddington, (07) 3161 5058.
Follow the hot-pink laneway to the end and you’ll be rewarded with Ra Ra: a boutique filled with pre-loved goodies in all the ditsy floral prints, polka dots and pinstripes you could want. As well as true blue vintage, they make their own vintage-inspired clothes from recycled fabrics.
SA: CLUBHOUSE LANE BOUTIQUE
Level 1/238A Rundle St, Adelaide, clubhouse laneboutique.com.au.
If you like a side of new with your vintage, this is the treasure trove for you. Located just off the city’s main shopping drag, browsing this well appointed store almost feels like you’re nosing around someone’s home. What you’ll find: men’s and women’s recycled threads, homewares and accessories, plus a slew of on-the-verge local labels.
ACT: APRIL’S CARAVAN
5/5 Hall St, Lyneham, 0413 699 943.
After finally securing a home in the Lyneham shopping complex, April’s has amassed a cult following of Canberran vintage fans. Trawl the selection that includes ’50s satin ballgowns, three-piece suits and plenty of ‘kitschenware’. Take advantage of the seven-day hire service for your next costume party.
WA: MISS BROWN
278 William St, Northbridge, 0488 222 409.
Non-locals might know Miss Brown – it’s stocked in the vintage section at General Pants Co. (so it’s safe to say this store has the goods). As well as original vintage dating back to the late ’50s, rummagers can expect remodified raglan tees, high-waisted shorts and denim overalls.
TAS: HELLO GORGEOUS VINTAGE
43 Barrack St, Hobart, 0403 946 484.
This gem is known for its Euro-chic brand of vintage – think luxe fabrics belonging to bygone eras, like tweed, suede and velvet. Look for pristine knits, hats, trousers and shoes, as well as blast-from-the-past designer dresses.
ONLINE: CREAM
creamonline.com.au.
The pieces are sourced from around the world, with a great selection of stuff for both girls and guys, as well as bags and leather boots. Shipping is a flat rate of $10 (free for orders over $150) and it also includes a detailed size guide to ensure you find the item (almost) made
for you.