If you’re not well-versed in the ebbs and flows of shopping for vintage, finding the hidden gems everyone raves about can be tough, not to mention a bit trying. Sometimes you just need to know where to go and what to (generally) be on the lookout for. Because after all, the satisfaction of finding something that may be unexpected, but fits you like a glove or that you’ve been on the hunt for for years is very real. And, there’s something even sweeter about finding it for yourself at a price that doesn’t make you want to shout profanities. If there’s one thing that 20-something Lauren Kirby knows, it’s curation. As the design director for House Of St. Clair, her days (and desk) are filled with one-of-a-kind brands and items of all varieties. She also just so happens to be quite the vintage aficionado, which is precisely why we asked her to dish on the best of the best when it comes to shopping for oldies, but goodies down in good ol’ Texas. Below, she shares where to go, what to look for once you’re there, and a few items she’s found to serve as inspiration. This way, you’ll never not know where to find the good stuff again.
Austin Antique Mall: “This is my favorite place to go and spend hours in on my days off. I’ve found so many good gifts here, too. It’s split into vendors, so each ‘room’ can have completely different collections of items and clothing. We’ve found bowls, art, and antique objects for our house and shop. And, I’ve found beautiful silk scarves and blouses here. Oh, and there’s also jewelry!”
Prototype: “This curated vintage store is located just off South Congress. The prices and the selection are great. They have everything from prairie dresses to ’80s going-out wear to band tees. Don’t miss their shoe selection.”
Garment Modern: “Some of the best pieces can be found here. They range from high-end designer vintage to no-name, but highly curated, vintage. I found this amazing ’70s gold mesh halter top here (sort of like this). I got a gift card for my birthday last year that I stilllll haven’t spent because there are too many things that I want! I can never make a decision when I go in. Side note: are gift cards super hard for anyone else to spend? Or, just me?”
Texas Thrift: “This is a thrift store off of I-35. There’s a lot to go through, but you can find some real gems here. I’ve found too many to count. The tortoise shell sandals I’m wearing in [my Off Duty] interview are from here. And, so is this top and this top. Unlike a lot of thrift stores in Austin, I find more ‘quality’, older pieces here for $2 – $10, not just discarded Forever 21.”
Goodwill Bins: “This is not for the faint of heart. You have to go in and dig through bins of mostly unsorted clothing that are being liquidated by the pound. I’ve found diapers in here. But, once in awhile, you’ll find a treasure and it’ll mean even more to you because of the process. My favorite finds from here are a white, lace up tank top from the ’70s and a vintage bathing suit with cherries on it.”
Passport: “Maria has a shop on South 1st and you can go in and get fitted for the perfect pair of jeans. I know it can be hard to find a pair of vintage Levi’s or Wranglers that fit just right, but that’s what they specialize in. It makes the process so much smoother.”
Olive: “Olive’s selection is a mix of contemporary and vintage. They’ve recently expanded their vintage section and it’s so good. I just got a one-shoulder, sparkly brown top from early ’00s cache here, and I love it. It’s a very cool shop. Laura and Farr know what they’re doing.”
Charm School Vintage: “Charm School is classic. They have everything from ’70s maxi dresses to ’90s grunge to crystals and oils. You can easily find some treasures here. I brought my friend here earlier this year and snagged this dress!”
Room Service Vintage: “Room Service is known mostly for their vintage home goods, but they also have a killer clothing selection. I think most people look it over because they’re going there for a table or a lamp, but don’t! I have found so many good pieces here. Look at everything, but don’t miss their bags and hats.”
Revival Vintage: “Right across the street from Room Service, Revival is another vintage home goods / clothing store. Although this time, I personally like their home goods selection better than their clothing. We found an amazing bust here, and a few different vintage ceramic pieces that we have in our home now.”
Buffalo Exchange: “Look, I didn’t want to add this, but I’ve found some good jeans in their men’s section for less than $20. I have two pairs of orange tabs that I got for $18 and $12, and they fit PERFECTLY. I think a lot of people overlook Buffalo because it’s a chain and it’s on campus, but I think that’s precisely why there are some gems.”
