Let Me Introduce Myself

Simply put, I am a vintage addict. Not only do I love vintage fashion because it is eco-friendly, but also because shopping for vintage takes patience, cunning and rewards with the thrill of the hunt.

Now I live in Vancouver, B.C, but growing up I lived just outside Toronto, where my passion for vintage was born.

Back then, my 13-year old sense of style was just beginning to bloom, but I found no greater pleasure than scouring the stores of Queen West in search of the coolest and kitschiest vintage wears.  Coming upon these stores was like discovering some secret tomb. Spin, one of my favourites, was tucked between two big name shops with fancy front windows and was easy to miss if you weren't looking for it. I'd climb the dimly lit staircase with a sense of growing excitement, opening the door to the smell of dust and incense, the sound of strange music and the sight of racks ridden with old clothes - my little fashion paradise.

Today, it seems there is a "vintage" store on every corner in major cities.  Over the years, as shopping at stores calling themselves "vintage" became more expensive, I've gravitated toward second-hand and consignment clothing shops. Not only are they cheaper, but they offer a more gratifying shopping experience for a treasure hunter like myself!

Nonetheless, shopping at stores like Spin and The Black Market, did yield me some gems.  My style then consisted of an eclectic array of funky 70s blouses, super flared jeans and quirky t-shirts - and there certainly was no shortage of these in my shopping adventures.

Here are some pieces that resurface the sentiments of my youthful introduction to the world of vintage:

Sheer Striped Blouse by Cositas Serias Vintage

I had one very similar to this, but in lovely blue hues. I wore it on my first day of highschool.  

Renoir Print Blouse by Starlet Vintage

Oh, how I loved my 70s print blouse! With the over-sized collar and amazing pattern (mine was of a delightful couple, Donny and Marie types, smiling from all angles). I wore that baby until it disintegrated and went to vintage heaven.

Spiegel Jeans by the VINTAGE gene

I probably would have died to have these when I was 14. 

EXPO 86 T-Shirt by Cairo Vintage

Not only was I huge fan of the ringer style, but I also loved shirts with rare and quirky designs or phrases. I often went for men's shirts, as they seemed to be much more interesting than women's. Plus, this shirt really appeals to me now that I live in Vancouver.

Sheer Secretary Dress by Faithful Vintage

Ah yes, the sheer floral dress. A 70s classic and one of my favourite pieces that I picked from Spin. Mine was a short sleeve and made of the airiest fabric known to man. In fact, I still have it!

 Black Market Vintage is still around: http://www.blackmarkettoronto.com/home/home.php

But, alas, I fear Spin is no more.

I hope you've enjoyed this little trip down memory lane. I don't know about you, but I feel like listening to some Bush X and eating a Passion Flaky.