Today I’m letting the sand out of the bag* and sharing my Bay Area Top 10 Sources for Vintage Clothing.
*sand bagging is a term we use in construction. It’s when a project manager intentially hides earnings in the budget until the end of a project. AT which time they report that savings to corporate while patting themselves on the back. While it may feel good, it’s not exactly the best way to forecast earnings. Not to mention, it ticks off your financial manager!
Anyway, this has NOTHING to do with fashion. But, I’ve been asked “where did you get that?”so many times. Therefore, rather than being coy about it I’m spreading the word and the love to my top sources for finding vintage. Some will be obvious, some are located on the same street, and others may suprise you.
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Below are my Top 10 Sources for Vintage Clothing
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Resurrect, Oakland CA – Although there is a small selection of vintage amongst the racks of upcycled and local garments, I struck gold with two beautifully preserved gowns from the 1940’s that keep me coming back for more. Click here to see my latest find!4135 Piedmont Ave. www.resurrectoakland.com
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James Rowland Shop, Berkeley, CA – This is where fashion editors shop vintage, need I say more? Except this store is now by appointment only. www.jamesrowlandshop.com
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Gypsy Road Studios, Oakland CA – hands down the most well curated by era, including mint condition 20s-30s-40s dresses. The first shop I’ve come across with men’s and children’s vintage and a reasonably priced Bakelite selection, as well as vintage sewing patterns, shoes…the list is endless. 4125 Piedmont Ave.
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Cheap Thrills Sacramento, CA- I’ve been going here since freshman year at UC Davis (I still have my authentic Navy Peacoat from here). Mint condition vintage lingerie, all eras are well curated and the prices are the best I’ve seen.EVER. It can be daunting because it’s primarily a costume shop, but head to the racks in the back of the store where you will find vintage clothing nirvana. 1712 L Street, Sacramento
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2525 Vintage, Hayward CA – similar to Cheap Thrills, huge collection and great sidewalk $1 sales. Friendly staff and great prices. Huge selection of graphic tees, denim, and 80’s nostalgia. 22600 Foothill Blvd. Hayward. www.2525vintage.com
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The Consistency Project – currently you can shop a seriously amazing collection of vintage Levi’s at pop ups like Urban Air, Garden Boutique, and Treasure Island Flea. But check their site for luxury vintage pieces from Chanel and others. www.theconsistencyproject.com
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Oakland Museum White Elephant Sale – Happening the first weekend in March, this is the perfect event for those of us who love to sift through tons of goodies sorted by era. Tip: get early access to the Preview sale by making a donation and beat the crowds. www.whiteelephantsale.org.
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Mercy Vintage, Oakland, CA -best.curated.designer.vintage.hands down. I’m talking Chanel, Ungaro, YSL, many French, Japanese, and Italian labels. They’ve shown mercy by doing the hard hunting work for you! 4188 Piedmont Ave.www.mercyvintage.com
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American Cancer Society, Discovery Shop, Oakland, CA – Besides benefiting a worthy cause, the people who work here are super sweet. I always find something special in this shop. Enjoy 10% off if you check in on Yelp. 127 41st Street.
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Rare Bird Oakland, CA- love this place for 60’s, 70’s and 80’s era vintage tops and casual dresses. Also a great place to score authentic vintage Pendleton wool. 3883 Piedmont Ave. www.therarebird.com
DO share YOUR favorite haunts for vintage. Because I’ve only listed shops I’ve actually purchased from, I’ve surely left some great places off the list. DON’T be a sand bagger!
Xoxo,
Kairee Tann, Ten Key Pieces
