Do you love a good 70s jumpsuit, collect mid-century tiki fashion, or appreciate the distinctive jingle of bakelite bracelets? In other words, are you passionate about hunting for vintage clothing and accessories?
We hope so, because Sarasota is a vintage clothing lover’s dream. From cleverly laid out stores that will transport you back in time to mysterious shelves brimming with treasures of yesteryear, you’ll find plenty of potential for stylish new “happy rags”. Additionally, purchases on these sustainable fashion sites support local businesses and help fund a variety of community enrichment programs.
Here are seven places to find your next vintage gem.
Vintage Canned Ham
2081 12th St., Sarasota, (941) 313-1280, cannedhamvintage.com
A colorful new mural by Florida artist Jennifer Kosharek welcomes you through the doors of Canned Ham Vintage. Inside, you’ll find a retro wonderland of clothing, accessories, and homewares curated by owner Ashley Rogers and her team with knowledge of fashion history. Recent stock includes a collection of classic Harley-Davidson shirts, ’60s paper dresses, ’40s painted men’s ties and ’70s-style reversible halter tops handcrafted in the shop from fabrics vintage.
SPARCC Treasure Chest
1426 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, (941) 953-7800, sparcc.net
Proceeds from the SPARCC Treasure Chest benefit the Safe Space and Rape Crisis Center in Sarasota. The nonprofit resale boutique serves the dual purpose of finding a second home for designer clothing, jewelry, and antiques, while supporting empowerment-based services and programs. Stop by to browse an ever-changing selection of beach looks, daywear and jeans for men and women.
Todburn Antiques
1526 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, (941) 365-4777
Elegant models wearing sequined evening dresses, poodle skirts and silk kimonos are displayed in Todburn Antiques, where a dress shop sits at the heart of the store. Overflowing with dazzling evening wear, floral print dresses and colorful ensembles, the boutique will deliver your next head-turning outfit. Finish the set by visiting the vast jewelry cabinets or hat wall to find a feathered fascinator or wide-brimmed straw hat.
The exchange
539 S. Orange Ave., Sarasota, (941) 955-7859, shop.sarasotawex.com
Since 1962, The Exchange has supported local visual and performing arts programs by funding grants and scholarships through its Resale Shop. Located in the Burns Court area, the store’s rotating selection of designer goods means you never know what sartorial discovery you might find. A Lilly Pulitzer summer dress or Ralph Lauren pants, perhaps? Don’t forget outfit finishers: belts, shoes, and scarves.
Fabulous finds in Pines
1221 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, (941) 552-1849; 1038 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, (941) 365-1616; pinsofsarasota.org
The Fabulous Finds at Pines, which benefits the Pines of Sarasota rehabilitation and elder care community, has two scavenger hunt locations. One is located on the association’s main campus, where it helps meet the daily needs of residents, and then there is a second store just down the driveway. Explore both for an assortment of previously loved apparel in addition to a wide assortment of accessories, handbags, scarves, and jewelry.
The Blue Legacy
5650 Swift Road, Sarasota, (941) 726-7829, theblueheirloom.com
Although The Blue Heirloom’s selection is not limited to clothes, the clothes racks are not to be missed. Whether it’s a fancy 1950s print flare skirt, a flowy bohemian dress, or a new pair of cowboy boots for line dancing, there’s something for everyone. tastes. Plus, there’s a chance of finding a vintage parasol or a hand-painted fan to complete the look.
Attic of the World Thrift Store
700 N. Beneva Road, Sarasota, (941) 330-0065, worldsattic.org
Any day is a good day to save according to World’s Attic Thrift Store. The nonprofit, which benefits the Mennonite Central Committee, supports mission trips around the world and local organizations such as Loving Hands, Safe Family Coalition and Gator Wilderness Camp. With constant new donations, there’s always a chance to win a second-hand fur coat, a retro flower boutonniere or vintage children’s clothing.
