Flashback 2

I’m used to over-​priced vintage, but the selection in Kensington Market was amazing! The prices were on-​par to Vancouver, but having all these shops in one location was overwhelming. I didn’t have much time but found an awesome bin in Flashback 2 of scarves priced 4 for $ 10 (or 1 for $ 3). I got some lovely (polyester) scarves including one for a friend. I wish I’d had more time to browse the neighbourhood as well as try on some dresses!

Vintage shopping is not meant for the shopping novice. If you get intimidated by Winners you are usually SOL, alas one place has service that rivals the most enthusiastic commissioned makeup counter spray girl…
I walked in and I was immediately overwhelmed and mystified by the multitude of amazing dresses they had on hand. I repeat I, ME, SELF-​PROCLAIMED SHOPAHOLIC had to take a moment a catch my breath amongst so many amazing peaces.
I asked the girl who worked there if she had any dresses in my size in which she could recommend. I figured she would show me a small section of mothball encrusted creations and be off on her little way; but then something magical happened… she said «you look around and I will just start throwing dresses in a change-​room for you!»
It was great, she found me about 30 dresses ranging from $ 10 to $ 70. I was in this store for a good hour trying on dresses and even though I only ended up with two of the 30 she had brought over, she did not seemed annoyed at all. Like me, this woman appreciated the high you get form the hunt! Finding that perfect something that is both one of a kind and almost waiting for you in the store.
My two finds were very different:
1) a polyester late 60’s/early 70’s turquoise dress with an Asian inspired cherry blossom print.
2) a GORGEOUS 1950’s black eyelet scooped neck dress with short sleeve. Retro and delicious!
I found it cute when she came over to say «You know you can haggle if you want… I’ll give you a good deal!» As if there was any doubt in my mind that I would be leaving with theses two amazing finds. Both dresses would have been $ 75 but she gave them to me for $ 60.
Bring cash and you’ll save even more.

I’m on a vintage dress kick, so this store, with its delicious row of old dresses, definitely caters to my needs. It may seem a bit costly ($ 20-​$ 40 for most rack items), but given that some of these were made decades ago and still look good, it’s obvious the materials are hardy… unlike our flimsy Old Navy and Jacob numbers that tear after 5 throws in the washer.
I love spending time in here, and the service is great, pleasant, and genuine. Another thing — the house this store is located in was gutted, so the higher ceilings provide a more open atmosphere. It doesn’t feel like you’re suffocating in a cloud of dead skin cells, even if you really are.