Shop Local: Vintage Finds

I have admired vintage clothing for years. Especially 60's dresses and skirts. As a child I would go through my mother's patterns and picture myself wearing the fabulous sheath dresses on the models.

I have looked for vintage clothes a handful of times at some of the local shops but had trouble finding something worth taking home. I say 'had' because I found the most beautiful chartreuse wool tweed pencil skirt at a little shop called Abode this weekend. It's not really a clothing store, though it has tons of fun vintage goods (including vintage buttons cards for just $1.... this discovery has all but curtailed my new button purchases).

I was helping my friend Ali look for suitcases for a photoshoot (for Bella Photos). I happened by a clothing rack and saw a few skirts. As soon as I pulled that skirt out I knew it was going home with me. I even tried it on over my pants in the middle of the store. It was $28, which is a lot for me, but I am sure I will use it for years to come.

Reasons to buy vintage (link):
• A positive effect on the environment, as you are effectively recycling garments.
• Unique fashion: These items cannot be found in any department store.
• Quality: These clothes are well cut, well made and have generous seam allowances for alterations.
• Better value: Buying vintage can be cheaper than buying new from designers.
• Detailed finish: When a vintage item is examined closely, the craftsmanship is evident. Many items were hand-stitched with superior fabric. Embroideries, unique buttons, beading, crochet, handmade lace and appliqué are all indications of solid craftsmanship. The styles tend to be more imaginative and the creativity is clearly seen.
• The story: Wearing a vintage piece is like wearing a living piece of art. Clothing from a different era tells stories about the women who came before us. Certain pieces have heritage attached. This intimate knowledge is priceless.

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My purchase got me thinking that sometimes people are interested in buying something vintage but don't know where to start.

The ladies at Your Heart Out have been posting about local Utah hot spots for years (this is how I stumbled on to some of my favorite places). Click on the links below to read the full YHO posts on each place:

Moriarty's Antiques and Curiosities (spotted)
Everyone should visit this store. It's name says it all. I have yet to purchase any clothing here, but the costume jewelry and accessories are to die for (and so are the prices - killer earrings for $3, don't mind if I do).

959 S. West Temple Salt Lake City
(801) 521-7507

Abode
Vintage housewares, furniture, chandeliers, typewriter keys, buttons, etc. Fun odds and ends from days gone by. You never know what you will find!

And Abode is offering 20% off all purchase made after 5PM this week! Go check it out.

1720 South 900 East Salt Lake City, Utah
(801) 486-2633
abodepfm.com

Decades
Vintage clothing, shoes and accessories only. I haven't spent much time here, but I have a hankering to get back.

627 S. State Street, Salt Lake City, Utah

misc.
Budget-friendly vintage wardrobe pieces in the heart of Salt Lake's vintage district. The layout is more minimalist than overcrowded clothing store.

corner of 300 South and 200 East Salt Lake City, Utah

Coal Umbrella
EDIT: Coal Umbrella recently lost it's physical location in Provo, due to a problem with their landlord, but you'll be pleased to know they aren't out of business! They are planning to open an online shop soon. Check out the details at their website below (thanks for the heads up, Elaine!)

coalumbrella.com

If you live in another community, I suggest you hunt for a few vintage shops and try them out. There is no shopping like rummage shopping!

Have you tried to shop for vintage things? Have you found success? If so, leave your tips!