Vintage Shop in Oakland’s Glenview District
Kate in a Gibson Girl blouse
Until a recent visit from my 26-year-old second cousin, Kate, I did not understand the distinction between “retro” and “vintage.” She made it clear that she enjoyed dressing in authentic clothes of the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s (vintage), not new clothes made to look like the older styles (retro). My cousin carries the look off with her own, singularly beautiful, style.
On the last day of Kate’s visit, we happened to drive past an A-frame proclaiming a “vintage sale.” We immediately changed direction and discovered All Things Vintage, which turned out to be one of the highlights of Kate’s visit to the Bay Area. Owned by Claudia and Lucy, who are two long-time friends that love estate sales, the place is a journey back in time.
Claudia & Lucy sporting their own vintage looks
Stuffed into every square inch of this small shop are dresses, hats, coats, shoes and accessories from the Victorian era to the 70’s. Upstairs you find men’s vintage hats and jackets, plus original how-to books.
After well over an hour, Kate glowed with her purchases, including an ethereal satin dress which could have come out of a 40’s film noir, one she is considering for her upcoming wedding.
As it is open only a couple of weekends a month, best to email or call before you go. It is a visit well worth making.
All Things Vintage
3506 Woodruff Ave
Oakland, CA 94602
Claudia: (510) 507-1901
Lucy: (415) 297-7459
allthingsvintage@comcast.net
View of part of the shop
Vignette in Scarlet and Black
Vintage Luxury