Wilbur: Vintage & Designer Clothing

A small part of me doesn’t want anyone to find this store so i can keep all the goodies for myself, but its one of the best vintage stores in philly. So i have to give credit where it’s due. The owner is also pretty cool, i don’t feel harassed while shopping. The best part for me is i feel like he has really good taste, it’s not just a store filled with consignment used clothing, i can tell he really tries to have quality items!

Tried to visit the store one day last week when it was supposed to be open. I wasn’t even sure I was at the right storefront because there was no sign of any kind (unless it was under the closed rolling door). When I called the number listed online I got an answering machine. Total waste of a trip.

Well, I am biased b/​c Dan is my friend, but the store is great! Give yoursel time b/​c there is a LOT to look at. Everything is one-​of-​a-​kind and there’s something for everyone. There are several decades covered and once in while, you are liable to stumble onto a MAJOR score — something you’ve only read about in those books about serious couture! The accessories are fabulous. Even if you are not all that into vintage (and occasionally, you might see a few newer pieces), there are so so many piece of unique jewelry, handbag, gloves, scarves, that it’s hard to walk out empty-​handed.

I went in to Wilbur for the first time in the hopes of finding a last minute Halloween costume and I knew I was at the right shop before even stepping foot inside! Hanging from the front door, I saw a perfect belly dancing outfit and I knew that was going to be my costume and was at the right place.
Dan, the owner, couldn’t have been more accommodating on my quest for accessories to go with the belly dancer set and even helped me look for an additional costume to wear for another event. We got lucky again when he pulled out another vintage dress and classic white gloves to go with it. Within 15 minutes of being in and out of the store, I was set!
From now on this will be my first go-​to shop for any item I need that I know will be unique and at a great value!

This review is long overdue!
Many moons ago, I discovered Daniel Wilbur’s treasures in his booth in the Antiquarian through word of mouth. On that first visit, I purchased a Sarah Covington ember tears necklace and was immediately hooked. I couldn’t wait until he opened his shop on S. 4^th and was among his first customers.
The new space is a perfect fit for his collection of garments and accessories. The window displays are sensational. I always make a beeline for the sassy cocktail dresses and flashy jewelry. I have received countless compliments on the brooches I’ve purchased here. It feels like shopping in your fabulous friend’s closet rather than in a store.
If you’re looking for some assistance with throwing together a look, Dan will be happy to help and will have just the thing. Don’t be shy to ask! He is an authority on designers both old and new. He is also a sweetheart and has helped friends of mine shop for gifts for my birthday and has nailed it every time.
I no longer live in Philadelphia but when I visit, best believe it’s one of my first stops. Can’t make it in? Wilbur also has an Etsy shop. In fact, go shop now:

This place is so lovely! I stopped in because I live nearby and I was intrigued by the jewelry displays, but I was actually on the lookout for a belt. I walked in and Duncan (I believe that’s who it was, but if not then I’m sorry I forgot your name, darling!) immediately made me recommendations for clothing and jewelry and every single piece he pulled was spot-​on my taste. I told him what I was looking for and he found me the perfect belt. I’d been looking online for ages but what I wanted was right here. We also chatted a bunch about designers and art/​design movements. It was the highlight of my weekend. I’m so excited to go back.

Wilbur is a hidden gem. Note the emphasis on «hidden»: If you don’t know it’s there, you might miss it. But, for the love of all charming, old things, don’t! Owner Daniel is an absolute sweetheart who prices fairly and seems to love what he does. To boot, he doesn’t hover over you when you shop in his small space, nor does he hesitate to agree with you that, yes, a dress makes your butt look big (thanks, Daniel!).
Speaking of boots: There are great ones here. Same goes for dresses. Same goes for coats. Same goes for jewelry and gloves and hats. Same goes for the smattering of books, from 70s self-​help to a few old Hollywood titles, toward the back.
I’ve bought maybe four dresses here that have averaged about $ 40 each. Go to Wilbur the next time you need something classy, unique, and reasonable.

I told the owner I’d review, but honestly after the experience I had today I was planning on it anyway!
I have been meaning to go to Wilbur’s since I moved to Queen’s Village. My only disappointment is that it took me so long to get there!
Wilbur’s has so many great finds for great prices! Beautiful selection of accessories and clothes! I honestly could have spent so much more time and purchased so much more than I did, but we all have to limit ourselves sometimes.
The owner was so helpful and not overbearing at all, like at some vintage places. He is super friendly and a true conversationalist. People were in and out of the store just to say hi to him! That’s the kind of business owner that I enjoy doing business with!
Next time I go back, and believe me there will definitely be a next time, I will have to look more at the clothes, this time I focused on the accessories. I purchased two necklaces, a bracelet, and a pair of earrings all for only $ 16.20! Super affordable and all look to be one of a kind.
I can’t wait for my next trip to Wilbur’s!

When my friend Duncan mentioned that he works at this fabulous little vintage shop across the street from Essene & Juju, I just had to come check it out!
So many lovely vintage dresses! I tried on about 5 today, but the only thing that fit was a vintage pink babydoll nightie. It is quite possible that I will wear this around the house every single day.
I also scored a Hello Kitty wallet from the 80s, which is actually an upgrade from my old wallet, yay for no more velcro! (I bought a blingy Hello Kitty ring at a flea market a month ago, so I guess this means I’m into Hello Kitty now. I’m OK with that.)
Highly recommend. Next time, I’m going to focus more on the jewelry.

I promised the owner a review, and better late than never!
I came here the night before a friend’s wedding to kill some time and find some accessories for my outfit. Everything (and I mean everything) about this place is just amazing.
The clothing selection? Zany in the best way! If you like the thrill of the hunt, you’ll love this place and you’re pretty much guaranteed to walk out with something that exponentially improves your wardrobe.
Jewelry? Unmatched for vintage stores as far as I’m concerned. Everything is beautiful, unique and classy. There’s also a great range of styles and prices.
The owner? Well, let me tell you a story: I walked in to the store, and Wilbur had a bunch of people hanging out. Being from Boston (birthplace of the perma-​frost personality type), I was a little off-​put and figured I’d get some wary sidelong glances and cold-​shouldered energy. But hell no. Wilbur immediately offered me some wine or punch while I was perusing the store, and his friend offered to read my tarot (they were doing a psychic thing as I recall). They were super friendly without being overbearing, a true talent in a store that size.
All the sudden, the sky opened up and hurricane level rain started pouring down (I’m not kidding, there was literally a hurricane happening off the coast that day). Wilbur let me hang out, even though the store was closed, for about 45 minutes until the rain let up enough for me to walk in. He may have even offered to give me an umbrella, but I may be making that up. But either way, he’s the nicest guy who genuinely loves his store and that comes through in everything about this place.
If you’re in Philly, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not going here.

I’ve only been here twice, but both times I have found a whole collection of thrift/​vintage gems. Here’s a place where the crap is sifted out and there are so many unique and beautiful items it’s hard to not over spend. Especially if you include the jewelryy. I’ve bought a pair of purple, pink, white, and black ‘piano tights on acid’, as I call them, A gorgeous leather patchwork shirt, an adorable very colorful but loosely knitted turnupsidedownable short little sweater, some truly awesome pieces of jewelry, failry priced, just like the clothes, like a long silver necklace that has amber stones and a silver ball with tassles at the end. Trust me, gorgeous. Prices are fair, which helps.
Dan, the owner, was extremely friendly and I actually intend to go back there and work for store credit. That’s how much I love this place. A must-​visit for any enjoyer of thrifting, vintage, or clothes.

Loveee their clearance rack
Just purchased a raincoat for $ 12.50! :)
This was my best kept secret! I love thrifting here any day! They have awesome sales on accessories, a fabulous spread of clothing to shop from & great deals. A fashionista’s dream!

Oh, how I love Wilbur’s– let me count the ways.
I first fell in love with Wilbur’s when I walked in and found a snuggled space of very carefully chosen vintage pieces. No Green Street Consignment, No Buffalo Exchange (no offense) — these are all major insults– none of those places that would call Marc Jacobs vintage, don’t insult Daniel with comparisons– he is the real deal.
I first found my evening gown for my boyfriend’s award show there. After alterations, the blue strapless gown was a show stopper. He spent over an hour helping me pick it out with my friend and deciding on it. No pressure, just giving his ideas and suggestions.
I returned and found a 70s Pandora wool dress and a gold (50s) dress I wore to a wedding. I think finding Wilbur’s has stepped up my style game a lot. I did learn you have to act fast– when returning for a blue strapless suede dress, another customer had it ready to buy! Turns out the other customer was awesome and I picked up a leather clutch she was torn on in exchange.
If you go, be sure to give yourself time to shop and if you are looking for something to stop the show at an evening event, than this is definitely the place!

My heart stopped today for a pair of shoes.
Vintage Italian hunter green leather pumps with little gold studs on the heel about the size of pin heads. Size 8. Pristine. Stunning. A perfect fit. $ 30 later, they were mine!
My friend and I stopped in here on a girl’s day out, looking for something special. We both pored over the extensive jewelry selection, sifting through huge baskets of bangles and trays of earrings, for at least a half hour. A cocktail ring with a bright yellow center and diamond starburst border caught my eye almost as soon as I walked in and it fit perfectly on my middle finger. I took that little bauble home with me too, I just couldn’t resist.
The proprietor is great, very personable and knows his stock. This is a go-​to place for me when I’m looking to add some fun accessories to my collection.

LOVED this store. Very well put together & organized. Jewelry was nicely displayed. Mostly fashion jewelry, but there are some fine pieces & a good amount of sterling silver. Great woman’s shoes but mostly smaller sizes (4 – 8). Pretty good selection for men also (bags, wallets, belts, hats, shirts, windbreakers, ties). I bought a (hopefully real) woman’s Burberry wallet, fine Italian leather Bosca men’s wallet, beautiful sterling silver ring (all images posted). It’s a MUST visit & if I lived in this city, I’d frequent here!!!

Best vintage store on Fabric Row.
Yes, I love the rest of you (well, maybe not you, Tucker’s Digs …) but Wilbur’s small selection gets extra points for the great care in selection without trying to gouge the end-​buyer. Add to that the fact that the store clerk was more than willing to help me when I had lame «I’m not cool help me fashion» questions and I think this place is adorable. I really ought to roll by there more often.

I came here looking for a vintage travel bag. I had stopped in a few times previously, and I have always admired the place for its style and charm.
Unfortunately, no travel bags. That’s ok. The guy who runs the place is super nice, very helpful, and was comfortable in engaging in casual conversation. There is a big collection of women’s items, some men’s items, and lots of ties & belts. Apparently the women’s shoe selection is quite good.
Go and patronize Wilbur. It’s a fine store and there’s even a Unilocal check-​in discount!

My boyfriend and I just happened to walk by here yesterday and I wanted to check it out so we went in.
The shop was a bit cluttered but that just means there is lots of cool things to choose from.
We looked around for a bit and the person there told us about the sale.
I ended up getting a cute little L’Egent Travel Bag that my boyfriend always agreed he liked. That might be the first bag of mine that he said he likes. Well, he said it looks «cool.»
I definitely want to come back soon and check out the rest of the store.

So Daniel is as fun to chat with as ever, and the selection keeps changing, with fresh items appearing all the time.
Guess what I found today? YOU WILL NEVER GUESS!
Perfectly perfect wide-​leg Valentino evening trousers in black wool, with embellished embroidery on the pockets. They were $ 55. They are Valentino and about as on-​trend as it gets for vintage.
There was also a stunning, 1920s dress — allover black beading on sheer black chiffon. Though I DIED for it, that style is meant for the tall, lanky and flat-​chested. None of which I am. But if you are, jet on over there and scoop it up.
Five shining stars!

Wilbur, You single-​handedly made me consider a move to Philadelphia.
I love your racks of colorful, gorgeously printed dresses and shirts. I want to try on every earrings in your five dollar box. Oh how adorable the black and white pouffy dress was in your display window. Your space made me feel like I was raiding my favorite friend’s closet (with a very reasonable, nominal fee).
Alas, but you are in Philly. I’m in Richmond. It won’t become an affair that we share every Saturday, but until the day we meet again I will remember you fondly in my bright peep toe shoes.